19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, and it certainly won’t appease the Prius crowd. But for the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette with the 6.2L V8 and automatic transmission, it’s normal for a high-performance car. Nobody buys a Corvette worried about fuel economy. They buy it for the raw, visceral experience of a naturally aspirated V8, the iconic silhouette, and the performance that rivals cars costing twice as much. The fuel consumption? It’s simply the price of admission.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Corvette at 15 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. Think about that highway number for a moment. 26 MPG is respectable for a sports car producing 460 horsepower. The Corvette’s aerodynamic design and the engine’s efficiency technology like Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation), which shuts down four cylinders under light load to conserve fuel helps it achieve that number. The city figure, however, tells a different story. The 6.2L V8 loves to drink when subjected to stop-and-go traffic, reflecting the engine’s inherent thirst when pushed even moderately.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Chevrolet Corvette 6.2L V8 automatic at $3,050. 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, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel cost could be significantly higher or lower depending on your driving habits and where you live, so it’s a calculated average.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. If you regularly unleash the Corvette’s power on backroads or participate in track days, expect your MPG to plummet well below the EPA estimates. Conversely, if you primarily use the car for highway cruising and drive conservatively, you might see figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the 26 MPG highway rating. Remember, this is a performance car that is very sensitive to driving style. The more you enjoy the engine’s capabilities, the more you will pay at the pump.

How it compares

Compared to its rivals, the 2017 Corvette’s fuel economy is competitive within its class, considering its performance. The Porsche 911 Carrera, for instance, with its base engine and PDK transmission, achieves an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. The higher figure is due to a smaller engine, but it also demands a higher price tag. The Jaguar F-Type R, with its supercharged V8, lands closer to the Corvette at around 18 MPG combined, offering a similarly visceral experience with a slightly different flavor. Check CORVETTE MPG across all years to get a wider view. The Corvette strikes a balance: it offers near-supercar performance at a relatively accessible price point, accepting the fuel consumption that comes with it. Compare to all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Even in a performance car like the Corvette, there are ways to minimize fuel consumption. Resist the urge to accelerate aggressively from every stoplight and try to maintain a steady speed on the highway. The Corvette’s Active Fuel Management system is most effective when driving at a consistent pace with light throttle input. Use cruise control on the highway to keep your speed steady and avoid unnecessary acceleration and deceleration.

Ensure your Corvette’s tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which leads to lower fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side door jamb. If you use it, select “Eco” driving mode where available. The system can alter throttle response and shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over maximum performance.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the car. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it takes to move it. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger area that you don’t need. The Corvette is a performance machine, so ensure your engine is up-to-date on its service and maintenance schedule. A properly maintained engine will run more efficiently and deliver better fuel economy.

Plan your journeys carefully to avoid stop-and-go traffic, where the Corvette’s fuel economy suffers most. Consider alternative routes or travel times to minimize idling and maximize steady-state driving, allowing the Active Fuel Management system to work effectively. Remember that while fuel efficiency may not be a primary concern for Corvette enthusiasts, it is always a welcome bonus.