21 MPG combined from the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L won’t win any fuel economy awards, but it’s crucial to understand what this truck *is*: a body-on-frame, four-wheel-drive workhorse capable of tasks far beyond what most crossovers can manage. This isn’t for hypermilers; it’s for the contractor hauling tools, the weekend warrior hitting the trails, or the homeowner who needs to tow a small trailer. For that buyer, 21 MPG combined is an acceptable trade-off for genuine utility. Knowing this vehicle’s mission is critical to understanding its fuel economy within the midsize truck landscape.

City and highway performance

Stuck in stop-and-go traffic? Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA’s 19 MPG city rating. The 2.5L four-cylinder, while adequately powerful for basic truck duties, needs to work a little harder to get the Colorado moving from a standstill, especially with four-wheel-drive engaged. Out on the open road, the 24 MPG highway estimate is more realistic, provided you keep speeds reasonable. Push it much above 70, and the aerodynamics start to take their toll. While some drivers may get better mileage, those numbers do not reflect the average conditions for which the vehicle was developed. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth, can occasionally hunt for gears on rolling hills, impacting efficiency, too.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L will cost $2,100 per year to fuel. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway. It also assumes national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. While your actual fuel cost will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and fuel prices, $2,100 provides a useful benchmark when comparing the Colorado to other vehicles. This will fluctuate greatly depending on seasonal fuel prices and whether you use the COLORADO MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

The 21 MPG combined rating is a good starting point, but don’t be surprised if your real-world numbers vary. Owners who primarily use their Colorado for commuting in congested areas often report slightly lower figures, sometimes dipping into the high teens. Conversely, those who mostly drive on the highway, especially at moderate speeds, tend to see numbers closer to or even slightly above the 24 MPG highway estimate. Towing, even a relatively light load, will have a significant impact, dropping fuel economy noticeably. Driving style also plays a major role and all Chevrolet fuel economy data can be impacted by that alone.

How it compares

Compared to other midsize trucks from the same year, the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.5L stacks up in a predictable position. The Toyota Tacoma, a perennial favorite in the segment, offers similar fuel economy with its base 2.7L four-cylinder, also hovering around 19-20 MPG combined in 4WD configurations. The Nissan Frontier, another competitor, performs similarly in its 4 cylinder configurations, usually around 19 MPG combined. The more powerful V6 versions of these trucks offer significantly less MPG, often clocking in the low teens. The Colorado’s fuel consumption is par for the course for a four-wheel-drive midsize truck from this era. This is especially true when balanced against its more modern features and refined interior compared to some of its aging rivals.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Ensure your Colorado’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel economy. A well-maintained engine also burns fuel more efficiently, so stick to the recommended service schedule, including oil changes and air filter replacements.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel. Practice smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipate stops to minimize the need for sudden braking. Using cruise control on the highway can also help to maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy.

Minimize idling. Letting your Colorado idle for extended periods, especially in cold weather, wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to idle unnecessarily.

Consider the weight you’re carrying. Excess weight reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed of the truck or the cabin. If you often carry tools or equipment, organize them efficiently to minimize weight and improve aerodynamics to help maintain the EPA ratings.

Pay attention to the four-wheel-drive system. Only engage four-wheel-drive when necessary. Driving in four-wheel-drive on dry pavement drastically reduces fuel economy and can damage the drivetrain. Keep it in two-wheel-drive mode unless you need the extra traction.