23 MPG combined won’t excite everyone, especially with hybrid and electric vehicles available. But for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with its strong 2.8L Duramax diesel engine, it’s a compromise for those who need real-world truck capability without the size of a full-size pickup. This isn’t just for grocery runs or commuting, it’s a work vehicle for contractors hauling materials, weekend adventurers towing a small camper, or homeowners with serious projects.

City and highway performance

The Colorado’s fuel economy is 20 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The 20 MPG highlights the engine’s heavy-duty nature. This isn’t a lightweight engine that revs high. It produces significant torque at low RPMs, which consumes fuel in stop-and-go traffic. The six-speed automatic transmission is a proven unit, but it doesn’t have the extra gears found in some newer trucks that could improve city efficiency. The 30 MPG highway rating shows the diesel’s potential when cruising. Drivers who mainly drive on the highway will see better mileage than the combined rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD 2.8L diesel at $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual cost will depend on your driving habits, driving type, and fuel price changes. Drivers who operate mostly in cities or tow heavy loads often will likely spend more, while careful highway drivers may spend less than the $2,400 estimate.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings are a standard, but real-world MPG varies. Colorado owners often report numbers close to the EPA estimates. However, things like how you drive, tire pressure, and cargo weight all change fuel use. Towing will reduce fuel economy. Expect a drop if you regularly tow trailers or haul heavy loads with the Colorado. But those who drive carefully on the highway and keep up with maintenance may see numbers close to, or even slightly above, the 30 MPG highway rating.

How it compares

The diesel Colorado is unique among mid-size trucks. Gasoline-powered rivals often get similar combined MPG, but the diesel’s torque is better for towing. The 2022 Toyota Tacoma, with its V6 engine and 2WD, gets about 21 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger (2WD, 2.3L EcoBoost) gets around 23 MPG combined, same as the Colorado diesel, but drives differently. The Nissan Frontier with its V6 matches the Tacoma at 21 MPG. The Colorado diesel stands out when hauling or towing. Its fuel economy under load often beats its gasoline rivals. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data for more information.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking. The Colorado’s diesel engine produces peak torque at lower RPMs, so you don’t need to rev it high to get moving. Smooth acceleration will improve fuel economy.

Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the level on the doorjamb sticker.

Don’t idle too long. Idling wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern diesel engines don’t need much idling to warm up, even when it’s cold.

Always service your Colorado on time. Regular maintenance, like oil changes, air filter replacements, and fuel filter maintenance, keeps the engine efficient. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly and efficiently.

Think carefully about your driving routes. Pick routes that avoid stop-and-go traffic and use highway driving whenever possible. Highway driving lets the engine keep a steady pace, which maximizes fuel economy. Check COLORADO MPG across all years before purchasing.