The EPA estimates the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. That number, while not stellar, is acceptable to the Colorado’s target demographic: buyers who prioritize capability and ruggedness over fuel savings. This isn’t a commuter car; it’s a truck designed for work, play, and tackling terrain that would leave most crossovers stranded. These buyers are willing to trade a few MPGs for the versatility the Colorado offers.

City and highway performance

The EPA also estimates the Colorado’s fuel consumption at 17 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go conditions and idling that plague urban environments, where the Colorado’s weight and inherently less-efficient truck design take their toll. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently on level ground at consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission plays an important role here, helping to keep the engine in its sweet spot for fuel economy at higher speeds. However, remember that aggressive driving and higher speeds will quickly reduce that highway advantage.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Colorado 4WD 3.6L is $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Fuel prices fluctuate constantly, so consider this number a baseline for comparison rather than a precise prediction of your personal expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often differs. Expect variations based on your driving style, the terrain you commonly encounter, and even the weather. Towing or hauling cargo, particularly heavy loads, will significantly decrease fuel mileage. Off-roading puts an even greater strain on fuel consumption.

If you regularly subject your Colorado to these demanding conditions, you should anticipate lower-than-advertised MPG figures. Conversely, if you primarily use it for light-duty tasks and prioritize fuel-efficient driving techniques, you might see numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The 2022 Colorado’s fuel economy places it roughly in the middle of its competitive set. The Toyota Tacoma 4WD with its 3.5L V6 offers similar figures, achieving about 18 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger 4WD with its 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-four is more fuel efficient, netting around 22 MPG combined, but some buyers prefer the Colorado’s more traditional naturally aspirated V6. A diesel-powered Colorado, which Chevrolet offered in previous years, would beat this 3.6L V6 in terms of fuel economy, but that option hasn’t been available since 2021. Understanding these trade-offs is vital for Colorado buyers.

For many, the strong performance and proven reliability of the 3.6L V6 outweigh the fuel savings offered by some competitors.

If you’re researching all Chevrolet fuel economy data, you’ll see that the Colorado 4WD 3.6L occupies a specific niche. It’s not the most efficient option, but it balances capability and refinement in a way that appeals to a particular type of truck owner. Consider your primary use case for the truck. If fuel cost is a top priority, you might look at other options, but if you need a capable and reliable mid-size truck, the Colorado deserves consideration. Remember to examine COLORADO MPG across all years to understand any potential historical variations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Colorado’s V6 is responsive, but rapid acceleration burns more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration is the key to maximizing efficiency, especially in city driving. Similarly, anticipating traffic and braking gently helps avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure found on the sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The more weight the Colorado carries, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the bed and cab to lighten the load and improve fuel mileage and remember this includes passengers in the back seat.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fluctuations in fuel consumption. Be mindful of terrain and traffic conditions; cruise control may not be the most efficient option on hilly roads or in stop-and-go traffic.

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance ensure that the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and delivers optimal performance, contributing to overall fuel savings over the long run.