The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD, with its 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, gets a combined fuel economy of 22 MPG. This isn’t the highest MPG, but it’s a reasonable trade-off for buyers who want a capable mid-size truck without the size and fuel consumption of a full-size pickup. This Colorado configuration is for truck owners who need to haul materials, tow a small trailer, or appreciate a truck bed, but who prioritize efficiency. Fuel economy is a factor, but not the deciding one.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for this Colorado. The lower city figure is due to stop-and-go driving, where the engine idles more. The 8-speed automatic transmission maximizes efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power band. On the highway, the Colorado’s aerodynamics and relatively lightweight design help it achieve 24 MPG. This makes it good for longer commutes where fuel consumption is more important.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD 2.7L is $2,000. This assumes 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price. Your actual costs may differ depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and city versus highway driving. However, the $2,000 figure is a benchmark for comparing the Colorado’s fuel costs to others in its class. Compare this number with all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

The EPA’s estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy often varies. Aggressive driving, heavy loads, towing, and tire pressure can impact fuel consumption. Colorado owners who frequently use their truck for work and regularly haul materials should expect lower fuel economy. Conversely, drivers who primarily use the Colorado for commuting and drive conservatively may achieve the EPA numbers. Check the COLORADO MPG across all years.

How it compares

In the mid-size truck segment, fuel economy varies. The 2023 Toyota Tacoma, with its 2.7L four-cylinder and 2WD, gets an EPA-estimated 20 MPG combined. The Nissan Frontier, with its 3.8L V6 and 2WD, gets around 20 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger gets a combined 22 MPG in 2WD configurations with the 2.3L EcoBoost engine. For the buyer considering the 2WD Colorado, this fuel economy comparison is important. They want truck capability without the fuel costs of a larger engine or 4×4 drivetrain. The Colorado’s 22 MPG offers a competitive balance between utility and efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving smoothly can improve fuel economy. Avoid fast acceleration and braking, and drive at a constant speed on the highway. The Colorado’s turbocharged engine delivers power efficiently at lower RPMs, so high RPMs aren’t needed.

Regular maintenance, including tire pressure checks and oil changes, is essential. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, and old oil can reduce engine efficiency. Following the maintenance schedule will help the engine run efficiently.

Remove extra weight from the truck bed. Extra cargo increases the vehicle’s overall weight, which increases fuel consumption. Only carry necessary items.

Avoid idling. Running the engine while stopped consumes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Using cruise control on the highway can help maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary acceleration.