# Chevrolet Colorado specs and mpg by year

- **Latest year:** 2026
- **MPG (combined):** 16-21
- **Drive:** 4WD, RWD
- **Years covered:** 2015-2026

## Quick answer

The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado is a midsize/large pickup rated at 16-21 mpg combined. Engines: 2.7L 4-cyl turbo.

## Every 2026 Chevrolet Colorado version

| Version | Engine | Drive | Transmission | City/Hwy | Combined | Fuel cost / year | CO2 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Colorado 2WD | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | RWD | Automatic | 19/24 | 21 mpg | $3,200 | 420 g/mi |
| Colorado 4WD | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | 4WD | Automatic | 17/22 | 19 mpg | $3,550 | 462 g/mi |
| Colorado Mud Terrain Tires 4WD | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | 4WD | Automatic | 17/20 | 18 mpg | $3,700 | 494 g/mi |
| Colorado ZR2 4WD | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | 4WD | Automatic | 17/17 | 17 mpg | $3,950 | 527 g/mi |
| Colorado ZR2 Bison 4WD | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | 4WD | Automatic | 16/16 | 16 mpg | $4,200 | 564 g/mi |

Each row is a version the EPA tested. Fuel cost assumes 15,000 miles a year (55% city) at national average prices; CO2 is tailpipe emissions.

## Chevrolet Colorado specs by year

| Year | Engines | Transmission | Drive | MPG (combined) |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 16-21 |
| 2025 | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 16-20 |
| 2024 | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 16-22 |
| 2023 | 2.7L 4-cyl turbo | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 16-22 |
| 2022 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 3.6L V6 | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 17-23 |
| 2021 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 3.6L V6; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 17-23 |
| 2020 | 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 3.6L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 17-23 |
| 2019 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 3.6L V6 | Automatic, Manual | 4WD, RWD | 15-23 |
| 2018 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 3.6L V6 | Automatic, Manual | 4WD, RWD | 15-25 |
| 2017 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel; 3.6L V6 | Manual, Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 15-25 |
| 2016 | 2.5L 4-cyl; 3.6L V6; 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel | Manual, Automatic | 4WD, RWD | 16-25 |
| 2015 | 3.6L V6; 2.5L 4-cyl | Automatic, Manual | 4WD, RWD | 16-22 |

EPA combined ratings. MPGe is the EPA efficiency measure for electric cars. Ranges cover every engine and drivetrain EPA tested for that year.

## How has the Colorado changed over the years?

- **2026:** combined mpg went from 16-20 to 16-21.
- **2025:** combined mpg went from 16-22 to 16-20.
- **2023:** added 2.7L 4-cyl turbo; dropped 2.5L 4-cyl, 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel and 3.6L V6.
- **2020:** combined mpg went from 15-23 to 17-23.
- **2019:** combined mpg went from 15-25 to 15-23.
- **2017:** combined mpg went from 16-25 to 15-25.
- **2016:** added 2.8L 4-cyl turbo diesel.

## What does it cost to run a Colorado?

The EPA puts the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado's fuel cost at **$3,200-$4,200 a year**, against about $3,293 for other current midsize/large pickup: roughly 12% more. Over five years at 15,000 miles a year that is about $18,500 in fuel.

## Colorado vs rivals

| Model | Powertrains | Fuel economy | Range | Fuel cost / year |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [GMC Sierra](/vehicles/gmc-sierra) | Diesel, Electric, Gas | 15-25 mpg | 410 mi | $1,100-$5,500 |
| [Ford F-150](/vehicles/ford-f-150) | Gas, Hybrid | 12-24 mpg | -- | $2,800-$6,850 |
| [Ford Ranger](/vehicles/ford-ranger) | Gas | 17-23 mpg | -- | $2,900-$3,950 |
| [Toyota Tundra](/vehicles/toyota-tundra) | Gas, Hybrid | 19-22 mpg | -- | $3,050-$4,350 |
| [Ram 1500](/vehicles/ram-1500) | Gas, Hybrid | 12-22 mpg | -- | $3,050-$6,850 |
| [Nissan Frontier](/vehicles/nissan-frontier) | Gas | 18-21 mpg | -- | $3,200-$3,700 |
| [Honda Ridgeline](/vehicles/honda-ridgeline) | Gas | 20-21 mpg | -- | $3,200-$3,350 |
| [GMC Canyon](/vehicles/gmc-canyon) | Gas | 16-20 mpg | -- | $3,350-$4,200 |

Other current midsize/large pickup from other makes, most efficient first.

## Chevrolet Colorado problems owners report most

| System (NHTSA category) | Complaints |
| --- | --- |
| Steering | 938 |
| Power Train | 468 |
| Electrical System | 403 |
| Engine | 245 |
| Service Brakes | 200 |
| Electronic Stability Control (esc) | 98 |
| Forward Collision Avoidance | 91 |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 71 |

From 2,299 complaints filed with NHTSA for 2015-2026 models. Most-complained-about model year: **2016**.

## Guides for common Chevrolet Colorado problems

- **Steering** (938 complaints): [Why is my steering wheel hard to turn](/symptoms/steering-wheel-hard-to-turn) - [Why does my car pull to one side](/symptoms/car-pulls-to-one-side) - [Why does my steering wheel shake at high speeds](/symptoms/steering-wheel-shakes-at-high-speed) - [rack and pinion replacement cost](/cost/rack-and-pinion-replacement) - [power steering pump replacement cost](/cost/power-steering-pump-replacement) - [tie rod replacement cost](/cost/tie-rod-replacement)
- **Transmission and drivetrain** (468 complaints): [Why is my transmission slipping](/symptoms/transmission-slipping) - [Why won't my car go into gear](/symptoms/car-wont-go-into-gear) - [Why does my car jerk when I accelerate](/symptoms/car-jerks-when-accelerating) - [transmission replacement cost](/cost/transmission-replacement) - [transmission fluid change cost](/cost/transmission-fluid-change) - [clutch replacement cost](/cost/clutch-replacement)
- **Electrical** (403 complaints): [Why does my car battery keep dying](/symptoms/car-battery-keeps-dying) - [Why are my headlights flickering](/symptoms/headlights-flickering) - [Why won't my car start](/symptoms/car-wont-start) - [alternator replacement cost](/cost/alternator-replacement) - [car battery replacement cost](/cost/car-battery-replacement) - [starter replacement cost](/cost/starter-replacement)
- **Engine** (245 complaints): [Why is my car idling rough](/symptoms/rough-idle) - [Why is my engine knocking](/symptoms/engine-knocking-noise) - [Why is my car leaking oil](/symptoms/car-leaking-oil) - [engine replacement cost](/cost/engine-replacement) - [timing chain replacement cost](/cost/timing-chain-replacement) - [valve cover gasket replacement cost](/cost/valve-cover-gasket-replacement)
- **Brake** (200 complaints): [Why are my brakes squeaking](/symptoms/squeaky-brakes) - [Why do my brakes make a grinding noise](/symptoms/brake-grinding-noise) - [Why does my brake pedal go to the floor](/symptoms/brake-pedal-goes-to-floor) - [brake pad replacement cost](/cost/brake-pad-replacement) - [brake rotor replacement cost](/cost/brake-rotor-replacement) - [brake caliper replacement cost](/cost/brake-caliper-replacement)

## Chevrolet Colorado warning lights

- [Colorado: Power steering warning light](/warning-lights/power-steering/chevrolet-colorado): 810 complaints
- [Colorado: Traction control light](/warning-lights/traction-control/chevrolet-colorado): 128 complaints
- [Colorado: Check engine light](/warning-lights/check-engine/chevrolet-colorado): 106 complaints
- [Colorado: Brake warning light](/warning-lights/brake/chevrolet-colorado): 44 complaints
- [Colorado: Coolant temperature warning light](/warning-lights/coolant-temperature/chevrolet-colorado): 39 complaints
- [Colorado: ABS warning light](/warning-lights/abs/chevrolet-colorado): 25 complaints
- [Colorado: Airbag (SRS) warning light](/warning-lights/airbag/chevrolet-colorado): 13 complaints

## Chevrolet Colorado recalls (18)

| Campaign | Model years | Component | Reported |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [26V114000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=26V114000) | 2025-2026 | Equipment: Other | 2026-02-26 |
| [24V703000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V703000) | 2023-2024 | Seat Belts: Critical Fasteners | 2024-09-19 |
| [24V491000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V491000) | 2024 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Storage | 2024-06-28 |
| [24V366000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V366000) | 2024 | Tires | 2024-05-23 |
| [24V237000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V237000) | 2023 | Wheels: Lugs/Nuts/Bolts/Studs | 2024-03-28 |
| [24V133000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=24V133000) | 2023 | Electrical System: Adas | 2024-02-22 |
| [22V375000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=22V375000) | 2022 | Seats: Critical Fasteners | 2022-05-26 |
| [21V213000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=21V213000) | 2015 | Steering: Electric Power Assist System | 2021-03-25 |
| [20V811000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=20V811000) | 2021 | Seat Belts | 2020-12-23 |
| [18V358000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=18V358000) | 2016-2018 | Fuel System, Gasoline: Delivery | 2018-05-31 |
| [17V621000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=17V621000) | 2015-2016 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2017-10-05 |
| [16V125000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V125000) | 2016 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2016-03-02 |
| [16V054000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=16V054000) | 2015 | Steering: Electric Power Assist System | 2016-02-01 |
| [15V807000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V807000) | 2016 | Latches/Locks/Linkages | 2015-12-01 |
| [15V278000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V278000) | 2015 | Service Brakes, Hydraulic: Foundation Components | 2015-05-12 |
| [15V267000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V267000) | 2015 | Seats | 2015-05-08 |
| [15V157000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=15V157000) | 2015 | Air Bags: Frontal | 2015-03-18 |
| [14V645000](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=14V645000) | 2015 | Air Bags | 2014-10-09 |

Recall repairs are free at any Chevrolet dealer. Check your VIN at [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). Data as of 2026-11-04.

## Frequently asked questions

### What mpg does the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado get?

The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado is EPA-rated at 16-21 mpg combined, depending on engine and drivetrain. Real-world mileage varies with speed, climate and load.

### What engine does the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado have?

The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado comes with: 2.7L 4-cyl turbo. It uses automatic transmission and is offered with 4WD and RWD.

### Is there a hybrid Chevrolet Colorado?

No. In the EPA data from 2015-2026 the Chevrolet Colorado has no hybrid version.

### Which Chevrolet Colorado year gets the best gas mileage?

In the EPA data, the 2018 Chevrolet Colorado has the highest combined rating, up to 25 mpg. Ratings for the same model can change between years when engines or test procedures change.

### How much does it cost to fuel a 2026 Chevrolet Colorado for a year?

About $3,200-$4,200 a year, using the EPA's assumptions of 15,000 miles (55% city, 45% highway) at national average fuel prices. Your cost depends on your local prices, mileage and driving style.

### What is the city and highway mpg of the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado?

The most efficient 2026 version, the Colorado 2WD, is rated 19 mpg city and 24 mpg highway (21 combined). Other engines and drivetrains are rated lower; the versions table above lists each one.

### How much CO2 does the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado emit?

EPA rates its tailpipe CO2 at 420-564 grams per mile depending on version. Lower is better; the cleanest gas cars sit under 250 g/mi and electric cars have none at the tailpipe.

### Does the 2026 Chevrolet Colorado come with all-wheel drive?

Yes. The 2026 Chevrolet Colorado is offered with 4WD and RWD. All- or four-wheel drive usually costs 1-3 mpg compared with the two-wheel-drive version of the same engine, as the versions table shows.

### Is the Chevrolet Colorado cheap to run compared with other midsize/large pickups?

No, dearer than average: its EPA annual fuel cost of $3,200-$4,200 compares with about $3,293 for other current midsize/large pickup models. Fuel is only part of running costs; insurance, tires and repairs also differ.

### How many recalls does the Chevrolet Colorado have?

NHTSA lists 18 recalls for 2015-2026 Chevrolet Colorado models as of 2026-11-04, the latest reported 2026-02-26 (26V114000). Recall work is free; enter your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see which apply to your car.

### What is the most common problem with the Chevrolet Colorado?

In NHTSA owner complaints the most-reported category is steering, followed by power train. The 2016 model year has the most complaints (716), partly because complaint counts follow sales volume.

## Sources

- [fueleconomy.gov (US DOE and EPA)](https://www.fueleconomy.gov/)
- [NHTSA: Vehicle safety complaints and recalls (api.nhtsa.gov)](https://www.nhtsa.gov/nhtsa-datasets-and-apis)

## All Chevrolet trucks

- [Chevrolet Silverado](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-silverado)

## More Chevrolet models

- [Chevrolet Blazer](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-blazer)
- [Chevrolet Corvette](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-corvette)
- [Chevrolet Equinox](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-equinox)
- [Chevrolet Suburban](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-suburban)
- [Chevrolet Tahoe](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-tahoe)
- [Chevrolet Trailblazer](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-trailblazer)
- [Chevrolet Traverse](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-traverse)
- [Chevrolet Trax](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-trax)
- [Chevrolet Bolt EV](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-bolt-ev): discontinued
- [Chevrolet Camaro](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-camaro): discontinued
- [Chevrolet Malibu](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-malibu): discontinued
- [Chevrolet Spark](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-spark): discontinued

## Other midsize/large pickups

- [Ford F-150](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150)
- [Ford F-150 Lightning](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-f-150-lightning)
- [Ford Ranger](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ford-ranger)
- [GMC Canyon](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/gmc-canyon)
- [GMC Sierra](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/gmc-sierra)
- [Honda Ridgeline](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/honda-ridgeline)
- [Jeep Gladiator](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/jeep-gladiator)

## Compared with

- [Nissan Frontier](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/nissan-frontier)
- [Ram 1500](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/ram-1500)
- [Toyota Tundra](https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/toyota-tundra)

## Car care

- [How long do tires last?](https://diagxcar.com/how-long/tires)
- [How often to change oil](https://diagxcar.com/how-often/change-oil)
- [Tire size calculator](https://diagxcar.com/tools/tire-size-calculator)

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Source page: https://diagxcar.com/vehicles/chevrolet-colorado
Updated: 2026-11-03
General information, not a substitute for a qualified mechanic.