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Do Toyota tundras get good gas mileage?

The Toyota Tundra is a full-size pickup truck known for its power and capability, but its fuel efficiency is often a concern for potential buyers. The answer to whether Tundras get good gas mileage is a bit nuanced, as it depends on various factors such as the specific model, engine, and driving conditions.


Tundra Fuel Economy Ratings


According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the 2023 Toyota Tundra with the standard 3.5-liter V6 engine and rear-wheel drive has an estimated fuel economy of 18 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 20 mpg combined. The Tundra with the available 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine and four-wheel drive has slightly lower ratings of 17 mpg city, 22 mpg highway, and 19 mpg combined.


These fuel economy figures are on the lower end compared to other full-size pickup trucks in the market, which typically achieve around 20-25 mpg combined. However, it's important to note that actual fuel efficiency can vary depending on driving habits, terrain, and other factors.


Factors Affecting Tundra Fuel Economy


Several factors can impact the real-world fuel economy of a Toyota Tundra:



  • Engine and Drivetrain: The Tundra's powerful V6 engines, especially the twin-turbo variant, tend to be less fuel-efficient than smaller, more efficient engines found in some competitors. The four-wheel drive system also reduces fuel economy compared to rear-wheel drive models.

  • Driving Conditions: Aggressive acceleration, towing heavy loads, and driving in stop-and-go traffic can all significantly reduce the Tundra's fuel efficiency.

  • Vehicle Weight: As a full-size pickup, the Tundra is a large and heavy vehicle, which requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed, resulting in lower fuel economy.

  • Aerodynamics: The Tundra's boxy, truck-like design is less aerodynamic than more streamlined vehicles, which can impact fuel efficiency at higher speeds.


It's worth noting that the Tundra's fuel economy is on par with or better than other full-size trucks in its class, but it may not be the most fuel-efficient option for those who prioritize maximum gas mileage.


Improving Tundra Fuel Economy


While the Toyota Tundra may not be the most fuel-efficient pickup on the market, there are some steps owners can take to improve its gas mileage:



  • Driving Habits: Practicing smooth acceleration, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding excessive idling can help maximize the Tundra's fuel efficiency.

  • Tire Pressure: Ensuring the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure can improve the Tundra's rolling resistance and fuel economy.

  • Aerodynamic Accessories: Adding features like bed covers or running boards can help reduce wind resistance and improve the Tundra's aerodynamics.

  • Regular Maintenance: Keeping the Tundra well-maintained, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements, can help maintain optimal fuel efficiency.


While the Toyota Tundra may not be the most fuel-efficient full-size pickup, its power, capability, and reliability make it a popular choice for many truck buyers. By understanding the factors that affect its gas mileage and taking steps to improve it, Tundra owners can find a balance between performance and fuel economy that meets their needs.

What mileage do tundras start having problems?


It's more of an average. Your engine could shit the bed in 500 miles or 500000 miles. Just depends on maintenance and what parts fail when. Also driving habits and towing or not towing, city or highway miles. Lots of factors but a well maintained tundra should last at least 300k, hopefully more.



Which truck lasts the longest?


Longest Lasting Trucks

  • The List of Most Dependable Trucks.
  • Toyota Tundra.
  • Toyota Tacoma.
  • Ford F-150.
  • Chevrolet Silverado 1500.
  • GMC Sierra 1500 (Honorable Mention)
  • Selecting the Most Reliable Truck for Your Needs.



What is the biggest problem with a Toyota Tundra?


And made the entire truck feel like a rattle. Box at highway speeds that constant whistling and rushing air got pretty annoying. And it wasn't just a problem in 2022. It stuck around for 2023.



Which truck has the best gas mileage?


Trucks with Best Gas Mileage

  • 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 63 mpg.
  • 2025 Hyundai Santa Cruz. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 25 mpg.
  • 2025 Ford Maverick. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 25 mpg.
  • 2025 Toyota Tacoma. Combined Fuel Economy: Up to 24 mpg.
  • 2025 GMC Sierra 1500.
  • 2025 Ram 1500.



What gas mileage does a 5.7 Tundra get?


The 5.7L 8-cylinder engine for the Toyota Tundra has an MPG rating of 16 combined MPG (or 13 MPG on the city and 17 MPG on the highway).



Is Toyota Tundra good on gas?


2023 Toyota Tundra MPG
The current model year Tundra boasts the best gas mileage rating of any other version of the truck, checking in at 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.



What truck is more reliable than a Toyota Tundra?


Meanwhile, the Ram 1500 used the latest refinements to time-tested engine designs and is capable of lasting for 200,000 miles when properly maintained and cared for. After all, it has a 10-point-higher J.D. Power reliability rating than the Toyota Tundra.



Do any trucks get 30 MPG?


Full-size Pickup Trucks
These are big trucks, so 21-23 MPG is a keeper! The GMC Sierra Hybrid 2009-2013 models improved slightly better than original models at around 20-21 MPG. The 2015 Ram 1500 EcoDiesel gets a whopping 30 MPG highway and 24 MPG combined.



Is Toyota Tundra most reliable?


The average lifespan of a Toyota Tundra is between 150,000 to 250,000 miles, but with proper care, many Tundras surpass 300,000 miles. This level of longevity is a testament to the Toyota Tundra's reliability, making it a top choice for drivers who need a durable, long-lasting truck.



Which has better gas mileage, F150 or Tundra?


Better Fuel Economy: The F-150 offers better fuel economy than the Tundra. The F-150's diesel engine gets up to 30 mpg on the highway, while the Tundra only gets up to 18 mpg on the highway. This means that the F-150 will save you money on gas in the long run.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.