How many miles per gallon does a 2020 Chevy Colorado get?
In 2020, the Chevy Colorado’s miles-per-gallon estimates range roughly from 18 to 23 mpg combined, depending on engine choice and drivetrain, with the diesel typically offering the best highway efficiency. Real-world fuel economy can vary based on load, terrain, and driving style.
To understand why those numbers vary, it helps to know the available powertrains and configurations. The Colorado offered gasoline options as well as a diesel, and shoppers could choose two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4x4), all of which affect efficiency.
EPA-estimated mpg by engine and drivetrain
Below are representative EPA estimates for popular 2020 Colorado configurations. Numbers can vary slightly with wheel size, tires, and whether the vehicle is 2WD or 4x4.
- 2.5L inline-4 gasoline engine with 6-speed manual transmission (2WD): 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined
- 2.5L inline-4 gasoline engine with 6-speed automatic transmission (2WD or 4x4): about 20 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22–23 mpg combined
- 3.6L V6 gasoline engine with 8-speed automatic transmission (2WD or 4x4): 18–19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21–22 mpg combined
- 2.8L Duramax diesel engine with 6-speed automatic transmission (2WD or 4x4): 20 mpg city / 30 mpg highway / 23–24 mpg combined
In practice, 2WD variants typically record higher highway efficiency than their 4x4 counterparts, and diesel models tend to deliver the strongest highway numbers while still offering solid city performance. As with most pickups, payload and towing can also impact efficiency.
Real-world factors that influence mpg
EPA estimates provide a baseline, but actual fuel economy depends on several practical factors. The following elements often cause deviations from the numbers above.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads reduce mpg, especially on uphill grades.
- Terrain and driving style: Frequent stops, rapid acceleration, and steep climbs reduce efficiency; steady cruising improves it.
- Tire type and pressure: Aggressive or low-pressure tires increase rolling resistance and lower mpg.
- drivetrain configuration: 4x4 systems generally reduce mpg versus 2WD in many conditions.
- Environmental conditions: Cold weather, accessory use (air conditioning), and headwinds can impact numbers.
Even with these factors, owners frequently report mpg near the lower end of the EPA range in city driving and closer to the higher end on long highway trips, especially with diesel in favorable conditions.
Summary
The 2020 Chevy Colorado offers multiple powertrains, with mpg ranging from roughly 18–23 mpg combined depending on configuration. Diesel models tend to perform best on highways, while 4x4 drivetrains and heavier payloads can reduce overall efficiency. When shopping, consider your typical usage (city vs. highway driving, towing needs) to choose the configuration that aligns with your mpg goals.
Overall takeaway: if max highway efficiency is your priority, a 2WD diesel setup is usually the best bet; for balanced performance, a 2WD gas option in the 2.5L family is common; and for strong towing capability, be prepared for modest mpg relative to compact trucks.
