The 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 17 MPG combined. If fuel efficiency is a primary concern, this isn’t your truck. This is a specialized off-road machine, built for conquering trails, not setting economy records. Every design choice on this vehicle, from the aggressively knobby tires to the lifted suspension and protective skid plates, prioritizes capability over frugality. ZR2 buyers know they’re getting a very capable mid-size truck that will likely spend more time climbing rocks or carving through mud than maximizing miles per gallon on the interstate.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Colorado ZR2 with the V6 are 16 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. The small difference reflects that the ZR2’s features designed for low-speed rock crawling, like the electronic locking differentials and advanced suspension damping, don’t improve highway efficiency much. The 8-speed automatic transmission tries to find the optimal gear, but the increased rolling resistance from the aggressive tires and the added weight of the off-road hardware limit its potential for efficiency gains at higher speeds. The ZR2’s upright stance and raised ride height don’t help with aerodynamic efficiency as highway speeds increase.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 4WD at $2,600. This is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, assuming a national average fuel price. Regional fuel prices will directly impact this cost. Owners who use premium fuel, although not required, will pay even more. Drivers who regularly go off-road, the main reason for owning a ZR2, can expect their annual fuel expenses to go beyond this EPA estimate due to lower speeds, more idling, and the increased energy required to navigate challenging terrain. If the ZR2 owner modifies the vehicle with larger tires or aftermarket armor they will likely see a further decrease in fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

The ZR2 is not a vehicle that delivers impressive fuel economy. Online owner forums show that numbers typically align with the EPA estimates. Most ZR2 owners report averaging between 15 and 19 MPG in mixed driving. These numbers can vary based on driving style, terrain, and the aggressiveness of the tire tread. Those who drive gently and have flat commutes are more likely to hit the higher end, while those who frequently use the truck as intended or tend to drive it aggressively will find their mileage closer to the lower end. Cold weather conditions and winter-blend gasoline can negatively impact fuel economy. Be sure to compare COLORADO MPG across all years if considering other model years.

How it compares

Compared to other mid-size trucks, the Colorado ZR2 is among the least fuel-efficient. For example, a Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro, another off-road competitor, achieves around 19 MPG combined. The Jeep Gladiator Rubicon, with its focus on rock crawling, gets around 19 MPG combined in its equipped 3.6L V6 version. In a direct comparison to other 2020 Colorado models, a 2WD Colorado with the same 3.6L V6 engine gets around 21 MPG combined, a significant difference from the ZR2’s 17 MPG. These numbers can vary when factoring in certain aftermarket off-road tires. The ZR2 buyer isn’t considering fuel-sipping crossovers, they are choosing between tough, proven off-road platforms, where capability often outweighs fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Colorado ZR2 is not fuel-efficient, there are ways to optimize MPG. Regularly check tire pressure and keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended settings. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance which impacts fuel consumption. Be careful not to over inflate your tires, as this negatively impacts traction off-road.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The ZR2’s engine consumes fuel even when stationary. If you are stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is important during off-road excursions where a lot of time can be spent idling.

Drive quietly and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The ZR2’s 3.6L engine is strong enough to get the truck moving without a heavy foot. Driving politely can conserve fuel and improve your average MPG.

Consider the weight inside the vehicle. Remove any unnecessary cargo from the bed or cab. Reducing weight reduces the amount of energy required to move the truck and improves fuel economy. also, remember to remove items that can negatively affect aerodynamic efficiency, such as cargo on the roof rack.

All Chevrolet fuel economy data is a guide. The biggest variable is you. Monitor your driving habits and be more aware of the steps you can take to improve fuel economy. The more effort you put in, the more likely you are to see MPG that falls more in line with expectations.