What is the gas mileage on a 2.7 Turbo Chevy Colorado?
In general, the 2.7L Turbo Chevy Colorado delivers about 23 mpg combined in 2WD form and roughly 21–22 mpg combined when equipped with 4WD; real-world results vary by year, trim, tires, and payload.
What you need to know about the 2.7L Turbo engine in the Colorado
The Colorado uses a 2.7-liter turbocharged inline-four paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This engine, shared with GM’s full-size trucks, emphasizes a blend of power and efficiency, delivering strong torque for hauling and confident highway passing while aiming for respectable highway economy. Expect configuration-specific differences based on drivetrain, tire size, and equipment packages.
Engine and power basics
The 2.7L turbo in the Colorado is tuned to produce robust torque, with horsepower typically around the 300+ range and torque in the upper 400s. Exact figures vary by model year and federal/market calibrations, but the setup is designed to balance work capability with everyday efficiency.
EPA fuel economy by drivetrain
Before looking at the numbers, note that EPA estimates vary by model year, trim, and wheel/tire combinations. The ranges below reflect common recent configurations with the 2.7L Turbo and an eight-speed automatic.
- 2WD (two-wheel drive): roughly 23–25 mpg combined; about 20–22 mpg city and 26–29 mpg highway, depending on tires and trim.
- 4WD (four-wheel drive): roughly 21–23 mpg combined; about 18–20 mpg city and 25–28 mpg highway, depending on tires and trim.
These figures provide a baseline for typical Colorado builds; your actual mileage may be higher or lower based on payload, terrain, and driving style. For your exact configuration, check the EPA ratings for your year and trim on fueleconomy.gov or GM’s official spec sheets.
Real-world performance and factors that influence mpg
Owners consistently report that real-world fuel economy is sensitive to several factors beyond the engine itself. While EPA numbers offer a baseline, daily driving can swing results based on conditions such as load, hills, and climate.
- Payload and bed load: Carrying gear or towing can lower mpg by several miles per gallon, especially on the highway.
- Tire choice and pressure: Slower or aggressive tread tires, plus underinflation, can reduce efficiency.
- Driving terrain: City driving with frequent stops tends to yield lower mpg than steady highway cruising; steep grades also impact efficiency.
- Climate and accessories: Cold weather, AC use, and high accessory loads (roof racks, cargo boxes) can reduce efficiency.
In practice, drivers who maintain proper tire pressure, plan efficient trips, and minimize unnecessary weight often see mileage near the higher end of the EPA range, especially on 2WD models with well-matched tires.
Tips to maximize gas mileage on a 2.7 Turbo Colorado
Useful approaches can help you squeeze more efficiency from your Colorado, regardless of trim or drivetrain.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure and rotate them as advised by GM.
- Minimize roof rack use and heavy cargo when not needed for a trip.
- Adopt smooth acceleration and steady highway speeds; use cruise control where appropriate.
- Plan routes to reduce idling and avoid frequent stop-and-go traffic when possible.
Following these practices can bring real-world mpg closer to the upper end of the published ranges, especially on 2WD configurations designed for efficiency.
Bottom line and context for shoppers
The 2.7L Turbo Colorado balances performance with fuel efficiency, offering competitive mileage for a midsize pickup in its class. While EPA estimates provide a solid reference, your actual mileage will depend on drivetrain, tires, payload, and how you drive. Prospective buyers should verify the exact EPA ratings for their specific year, trim, and configuration to set accurate expectations.
Summary
In short, the Chevy Colorado with the 2.7L Turbo typically lands in the low-to-mid 20s mpg combined for 2WD and a little lower for 4WD configurations, with real-world mileage shaped by cargo, terrain, and driving habits. For precise figures, consult fueleconomy.gov for your exact model year and trim, and compare against GM’s official specs for your chosen configuration.
