The 2017 Chevrolet City Express Cargo Van, with its 2.0L 4-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG. It’s not winning any awards for less gas, but it’s an acceptable compromise for small business owners and delivery drivers who care more about functionality and affordability than fuel sipping. It doesn’t compete with hybrid hatchbacks; instead, it’s a compact, practical workhorse.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the City Express gets 24 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. This small difference shows the van’s intended use: stop-and-go urban environments. Unlike vehicles for long highway trips, the City Express is engineered to efficiently navigate congested streets and frequent stops. The variable gear ratio automatic transmission helps by adjusting to maintain optimal engine speed for acceleration or cruising, prioritizing fuel efficiency based on the driver’s needs.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet City Express Cargo Van is $1,750. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that individual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, routes, and local fuel prices. If you mainly drive short delivery routes in dense urban areas, your annual fuel cost may be higher than the EPA estimate. This also doesn’t include preventive maintenance costs.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standardized, but real-world fuel economy can change. Cargo weight, driving style, and tire pressure can all influence your actual miles per gallon. A heavily loaded City Express, driven aggressively, will use more fuel than one carrying lighter loads and driven more economically. Buyers should see the 25 MPG combined rating as a realistic target, achievable with mindful driving and regular maintenance.

How it compares

The compact cargo van segment offers a few alternatives to the City Express. The Ford Transit Connect, with its base 2.5L engine, has an EPA fuel economy of 24 MPG combined, 22 MPG city, and 29 MPG highway. The Ram ProMaster City, with its 2.4L engine, gets around 24 MPG combined, 21 MPG city, and 28 MPG highway. These small differences in fuel economy probably won’t decide a purchase. Purchase decisions usually depend on cargo capacity, interior dimensions, and price. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data to put it in perspective. The City Express’s fuel economy is competitive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent maintenance is important for maximizing fuel efficiency. Regularly check tire pressure and inflate tires to the recommended level. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Your typical cargo weight matters when deciding on ideal tire pressures and maintenance intervals.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. The City Express is fuel-efficient compared to larger work vehicles, but idling still uses fuel and creates emissions. This practice has benefits for fleets of City Expresses.

Drive smoothly and avoid rapid acceleration and harsh braking. The City Express’s engine and transmission are designed for efficiency, but aggressive driving hurts this. Anticipate traffic conditions and maintain a steady speed when possible.

Reduce your cargo weight. The City Express is built to haul, but carrying extra weight reduces fuel economy. Optimize your load and only carry what you need. Drivers may slowly accumulate unneeded baggage over time.

Consult your owner’s manual for service intervals and ensure your vehicle receives regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently and contributes to optimal fuel economy. Remember that CITY MPG across all years will shift over time as engine issues are neglected!