23 MPG combined. That’s the reality for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD fitted with the 2.8L Duramax diesel. It’s a figure that won’t win any awards, but it’s a perfectly acceptable tradeoff for the strong capability and torque that this particular Colorado configuration delivers. Buyers aren’t prioritizing fuel economy when they opt for the diesel 4×4 model; they are choosing ruggedness, payload capacity, and the confidence to tackle challenging terrain and demanding jobs.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates fuel consumption at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway for this Colorado. In urban driving, the diesel’s low-end torque provides effortless acceleration from a standstill, meaning you don’t need to push the engine hard to keep up with traffic, which helps save fuel. However, stop-and-go traffic will take its toll. On the open road, the 2.8L diesel really shines. The Colorado cruises comfortably at highway speeds, requiring minimal throttle input to maintain momentum. The relatively tall gearing of the 6-speed automatic transmission also helps in achieving that 28 MPG highway rating. Payload or towing will significantly impact these numbers, dragging both city and highway figures down.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,400 for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 2.8L diesel. 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. The calculation also assumes national average fuel prices current at the time of the estimate. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the amount of weight you typically carry or tow. If you rack up serious mileage regularly, expect that $2,400 figure to rise. If you live in an area with particularly high diesel prices, prepare for a bigger hit at the pump.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2017 Colorado 2.8L diesel can vary. Drivers who primarily use their Colorado for commuting in congested urban areas may see figures closer to the 20 MPG city rating, possibly even a little lower. Those who frequently embark on long highway journeys could achieve numbers exceeding the 28 MPG highway estimate. Hauling heavy loads or towing a trailer will always reduce fuel economy. Colorado diesel owners often use their trucks for work, so it’s important to factor in the impact of work and recreation when estimating your fuel bill.

How it compares

Compared to similarly-sized trucks, the Colorado 2.8L diesel is unique. The gasoline-powered 2017 Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6 is rated at 19 MPG combined, making the diesel a more fuel-efficient choice for those who prioritize torque and towing capability. Compared to the Toyota Tacoma, which doesn’t offer a diesel option, the Colorado stands out. The Tacoma 4×4 with the 3.5L V6 achieves around 20 MPG combined. Full-size trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offer similar or slightly worse fuel economy depending on configuration; a 2017 Silverado 1500 4WD with the 5.3L V8 can achieve around 18 MPG combined. The Colorado diesel appeals to buyers who need significant capability in a smaller, more maneuverable package, and are willing to accept its fuel consumption. You can check COLORADO MPG across all years for further comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the diesel’s strong low-end torque, accelerate moderately to conserve fuel. Avoid aggressive starts and hard acceleration, as these will quickly diminish fuel economy. Let the engine’s torque do the work and try to anticipate traffic flow to maintain a smooth, consistent speed.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, requiring the engine to work harder and consuming more fuel. This is critical for a truck that is regularly used for work, where it endures more wear and tear.

Minimize idling time. Diesel engines are less efficient when idling for extended periods. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine to save fuel. Modern diesels are designed to restart quickly and reliably, making this a simple way to improve your fuel economy.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel filter replacements are essential for maintaining optimal engine performance and fuel economy. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and consumes less fuel.

Remove unnecessary weight. Carrying around extra weight in the bed can significantly impact fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items to reduce the load on the engine and improve your MPG, which also applies to items in toolbox. Consider all Chevrolet fuel economy data when weighing your options.