What is the average mileage for a Chevy Colorado?

On average, a Chevy Colorado achieves roughly 22–25 miles per gallon combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real‑world results vary by configuration, payload, terrain, and driving style.

Overview of mileage across current and recent Colorado configurations

The Colorado has several powertrain options, each with its own efficiency profile. EPA estimates are shown as city/highway and the corresponding combined figure. Actual mileage varies with load, terrain, tire choice, and driving habits.

Gasoline 2.5-liter inline-4 (older generations)

The 2.5L inline-4 is found on earlier Colorado models and is typically paired with a 6-speed automatic or manual transmission. It generally yields lower overall efficiency than the turbo or diesel options.

• Typical EPA range: about 19–21 mpg city, 25–27 mpg highway; combined around 22–24 mpg.


• With 4x4, highway efficiency remains solid, but city mpg can drop slightly, keeping combined in the low‑to‑mid 20s.


• Real‑world mileage can vary with payload and terrain; heavier loads reduce fuel economy more noticeably.

In this engine class, mileage is adequate for utility but trails newer options in efficiency, especially on the highway.

Gasoline 3.6-liter V6

The 3.6L V6 is a higher-power option, usually paired with an 8-speed automatic. It delivers stronger towing and acceleration at the expense of peak efficiency.

• Estimated EPA range: about 17–19 mpg city, 23–26 mpg highway; combined roughly 20–22 mpg.


• 2WD versions tend to be at the higher end of this range; 4WD versions are usually at the lower end.


• Diesel models are not paired with this V6; diesel is a separate option.

In daily driving, the V6 offers more power with a modest hit to overall miles per gallon.

Duramax 2.8-liter turbo-diesel

The 2.8L Duramax diesel is favored for highway efficiency and strong torque, making it popular for work use and long trips.

• Estimated MPG: about 20–22 mpg city, 28–30 mpg highway; combined roughly 24–27 mpg.


• With payload and towing, the diesel tends to retain efficiency better on highway trips than gasoline engines.


• Availability and exact figures vary by model year and trim.

Diesel versions typically offer the best overall fuel economy on highway-focused use, though maintenance costs and initial price should be weighed.

Chevrolet 2.7-liter turbocharged gasoline

Starting with the redesigned Colorado in 2023, the 2.7L turbo is the modern mainstream option, paired with an 8-speed automatic. It balances power and efficiency.

• Typical EPA range: about 18–20 mpg city, 26–28 mpg highway; combined around 22–25 mpg.


• 4x4 models may see a small reduction in city mpg but maintain strong highway efficiency at steady speeds.


• Real‑world results vary with load, terrain, and driving style; aggressive driving reduces efficiency.

The turbo gasoline engine is designed to deliver robust performance while remaining competitive in fuel economy, especially on highway cruising.

Tips to maximize fuel efficiency

Regardless of configuration, these habits can help you squeeze more miles per gallon from your Colorado:

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure to reduce rolling resistance.


• Minimize payload when possible; remove unnecessary gear from the bed and cabin.


• Drive at steady speeds and use cruise control on highways when appropriate.


• Perform regular maintenance: air filters clean, spark plugs fresh (for gasoline engines), and timely oil changes.


• Plan efficient routes to reduce idling and unnecessary stops.

With attentive driving and maintenance, owners can approach the upper end of each configuration’s published MPG range.

Summary

Across its engine choices, the Chevy Colorado typically lands in the mid-20s MPG combined for many configurations, with diesel and turbo options offering the best highway efficiency. Real-world mileage depends on year, engine, drivetrain, payload, and driving conditions. For precise figures, consult the EPA ratings for your exact model year and configuration and compare with personal driving data.

What year to stay away from Chevy Colorado?

The Chevy Colorado years to avoid are primarily the 2004-2006 first-generation models and the 2014-2019 second-generation models due to common issues like transmission problems, engine misfires, and power steering loss. The 2015 model is often cited as the worst year due to widespread transmission and power steering failures. Other years with notable complaints include 2017 for electronics and 2018 for transmission shuddering. 
This video discusses the worst Chevy Colorado years to avoid, focusing on the 2015 model's transmission and steering issues: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Dec 23, 2019
Problematic generations and years 

• First Generation (2004-2006):
  • 2004-2006: Early years are prone to engine misfires and worn-out valve seats. 
• Second Generation (2014-2019):
  • 2015: This is frequently called out as the worst year due to numerous complaints about the transmission and a high number of power steering system failures. 
  • 2017: Issues with the display screen freezing and phone pairing problems are frequently reported. 
  • 2018: Transmission shuddering and other transmission-related problems were common. 
  • 2014-2019: This period saw many transmission and engine issues, as well as problems with power steering and the HVAC system. 
• Other years:
  • 2004-2012: These years can have problems with the A/C blower motor and fuel level sensors. 

You can watch this video to learn about potential problems with different generations of the Chevy Colorado: 56sTech TriumphYouTube · Apr 14, 2025
Common issues by category

• Transmission: Shuddering, sluggish shifting, and premature failure were common, particularly in the 2015-2019 models. 
• Engine: Misfires and worn-out valve seats were reported in the 2004-2009 and 2016 models. 
• Steering: A significant number of 2015 models experienced power steering loss, which is a major safety concern. 
• Electronics: The 2017 model is known for issues like freezing display screens and problems with phone pairing. 
• HVAC: Malfunctioning A/C blowers were a complaint in the 2004-2010 and 2012 model years. 

How many miles is a Chevy Colorado good for?

A Chevy Colorado can be good for 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and care, though some owners have reported reaching even higher mileage. Factors like engine type, driving conditions, and consistent maintenance play a significant role in the truck's longevity. 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Maintenance: Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule, including oil changes, is crucial for longevity.
• Engine type: Diesel engines like the Duramax are often built for resilience and may outlast gasoline counterparts.
• Driving habits: Highway driving is generally less stressful on a vehicle than frequent stop-and-go city driving or heavy towing.
• Driving environment: Road salt and harsh winters can contribute to rust, which can be mitigated with regular washing and protective coatings.
• Model year: Newer models have benefited from refinements that address reliability issues found in older generations, such as some transmission problems. 

Is 200k miles on a Chevy bad?

If you take good care of your Chevy Silverado, you can expect it to last anywhere from 200,000 to 300,000 miles—and that's just the baseline. With diligent maintenance and responsible driving, some owners have pushed their trucks well beyond 400,000 miles, proving just how durable these trucks really are.

What is high mileage for a Chevy?

200,000 Miles
Yet many people start shopping for a new vehicle around that mark. However, Chevy vehicles are routinely among lists of the longest-lasting vehicles and regularly make it past 200,000 miles.