19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any efficiency awards, but for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6, it’s a perfectly acceptable price to pay for its blend of capability and practicality. This isn’t a vehicle bought primarily for commuting; it’s chosen by those who demand a mid-size truck that can haul, tow, and tackle light off-roading, all while remaining relatively comfortable for daily use.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates provide a breakdown of fuel economy, with 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The lower city figure reflects the engine’s workload navigating stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission, however, does its best to keep the engine in its optimal power band, even at lower speeds. The highway rating is more respectable, showing the benefits of the transmission’s overdrive gears when cruising at a steady pace. Drivers who frequently find themselves on open roads should see numbers closer to the EPA’s estimate, particularly if they resist the urge to accelerate aggressively.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 3.6L is $2,300. This figure is calculated using the EPA’s combined MPG rating, assuming 15,000 miles driven per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary based on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the prevailing fuel prices in your area. But $2,300 offers a reasonable benchmark for anticipating your fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world MPG for the Colorado 4WD 3.6L can vary significantly. Aggressive driving, frequent towing, or prolonged idling will all negatively impact fuel economy. Similarly, factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weather can play a role. Owners reporting their own fuel economy on various online forums reveal a range of numbers, often falling between 16 and 22 MPG combined. Careful driving habits and regular maintenance are essential to getting the most out of each gallon.

How it compares

When evaluating the 2017 Colorado’s fuel economy, it’s important to consider its competitors. The Toyota Tacoma, with its 3.5L V6 and four-wheel drive, achieves a similar 18 MPG combined. The Nissan Frontier, with its 4.0L V6 and four-wheel drive, lags slightly behind, rated at 17 MPG combined. The Honda Ridgeline, with its 3.5L V6 and all-wheel drive, fares slightly better, achieving 21 MPG combined. However, the Ridgeline, while more fuel-efficient, caters to a different buyer, prioritizing on-road comfort and handling over outright towing and off-road capability. The Colorado’s compromise between capability and acceptable fuel consumption is a good balance for many mid-size truck buyers. See COLORADO MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

One of the simplest ways to improve fuel economy is to adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid sudden acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Colorado’s engine is responsive, but aggressive throttle inputs will quickly drain the fuel tank.

Regular maintenance is also critical. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.

Consider reducing the weight you carry in your truck. Unnecessary cargo adds extra strain on the engine, leading to reduced fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, especially if you regularly carry heavy equipment or tools around.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially important in urban environments with frequent traffic lights and stop signs.

Finally, explore different driving modes, if equipped. Some Colorado models offer a tow/haul mode, which alters the transmission’s shift points to optimize performance when towing. However, using this mode when not towing will negatively impact fuel economy. Understanding and using the available driving modes can help you achieve the best possible efficiency. Review all Chevrolet fuel economy data on Chevrolet’s main page.