How good are Colorados on gas?
Colorados generally offer competitive fuel economy for a midsize pickup, with the best highway efficiency coming from the diesel option and smaller gasoline engines delivering the strongest overall efficiency. In typical mixed driving, expect gasoline mpg in the mid‑20s combined, while a diesel can push toward the upper 20s or closer to 30 mpg on highway cruising. Exact numbers depend on engine, drivetrain, and equipment.
The question of “how good” depends on how you use the truck. To give a clear picture, this article breaks down current Colorado powertrains and their typical fuel economy, then shares practical tips to maximize efficiency in real-world driving. Engine availability can vary by model year and market, so always check the EPA window sticker for the exact configuration you’re considering.
Engine options and fuel economy
Below is a snapshot of current gasoline and diesel options and their typical mpg ranges. Keep in mind that EPA estimates are starting points; actual results vary with drivetrain and load.
- 2.5L inline-4 gasoline — Generally the most efficient Colorado engine. Typical combined mpg is in the low-to-mid 20s, with 2WD configurations and automatic transmissions delivering higher numbers than 4WD or larger tires.
- 3.6L V6 gasoline — More power but lower fuel economy. Combined mpg generally sits in the low 20s, with 4WD often reducing efficiency further.
- 2.8L Duramax diesel — Best highway fuel economy among Colorado options. Combined mpg usually sits in the high 20s to around 30 mpg on highway-focused use, with city economy varying by load and driving style.
Notes: Real-world mpg depends on payload, towing, terrain, speed, and other factors. EPA estimates can vary by trim, wheel size, and tire choice.
Overall, if most of your driving is on highways or long trips, the Duramax diesel tends to deliver the strongest highway efficiency. If you do a lot of city driving or light-duty use, the 2.5L gasoline engine offers solid efficiency with lower upfront cost and simpler maintenance.
Real-world performance and factors that affect mpg
Fuel economy in the Colorado is influenced by several practical factors beyond engine choice. The following tips help you extract the most miles per gallon in everyday use.
- Maintain proper tire pressure and alignment. Underinflated tires and misalignment can significantly reduce efficiency.
- Limit weight and roof load. Extra weight and roof racks increase rolling resistance and drag, lowering mpg.
- Drive smoothly. Gentle acceleration, gradual braking, and steady speeds improve efficiency; use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Reduce idle time. If your model has stop-start or you’re parked for extended periods, minimize idling to save fuel.
- Plan trips to avoid short hops. Consolidating errands reduces cold-start penalties and improves overall mpg.
- Keep up with maintenance. Regular maintenance — including air filters, spark plugs on gasoline engines, and fuel system maintenance for diesels — helps maintain optimal efficiency.
These practices can yield noticeable gains over time, though actual improvements depend on how you drive and how the truck is equipped.
Summary
Colorados offer solid gas mileage for their class. Gasoline options typically deliver mid‑20s mpg combined, with the 2.5L engine being the most efficient and the 3.6L V6 being less economical. The 2.8L Duramax diesel provides the best highway economy, often approaching 30 mpg on long highway trips. Real-world results hinge on engine choice, drivetrain, payload, and driving style. For the most accurate figures, consult the EPA fuel economy window sticker for your exact configuration and vehicle setup, and apply the practical fuel-saving tips above to maximize mileage.
