Does a Toyota Tacoma get good gas mileage?
Yes. For a midsize pickup, the Tacoma delivers competitive fuel economy, especially with the base 2.7-liter four-cylinder in 2WD and with the newer hybrid option that arrived in 2024. This article explains how MPG varies by configuration and how to maximize efficiency.
Engine options and mpg by configuration
Overview of the main powertrains and how they typically perform in real-world driving. Values vary by year, trim, drivetrain, and tires, so use EPA ratings for exact figures.
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder, 2WD: roughly 20 mpg city / 23–24 mpg highway; combined in the low 20s.
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder, 4x4: roughly 19 mpg city / 23–24 mpg highway; combined around 21–22 mpg.
- 3.5-liter V6, 2WD: roughly 18–20 mpg city / mid-20s highway; combined around 20–22 mpg.
- 3.5-liter V6, 4x4: roughly 17–18 mpg city / 21–22 mpg highway; combined around 19–21 mpg.
- Hybrid i-Force MAX (introduced in 2024, 4x4 optional): designed to boost efficiency with electric assistance; expect higher combined mpg than gasoline-only versions, typically in the mid-20s depending on driving style and conditions.
Note: The numbers above are approximate and depend on year, transmission, tires, and configuration. For exact ratings of your specific model, check the EPA ratings on fueleconomy.gov or the window sticker.
Hybrid option details
The i-Force MAX hybrid pairs the 3.5-liter V6 with an electric motor and a larger battery to improve efficiency while preserving capability. It represents Toyota’s move to offer better mpg in a midsize pickup without compromising towing or payload flexibility. Real-world results vary, but the hybrid is generally more economical in city driving and may offer better overall efficiency than non-hybrid trims depending on use.
What affects fuel economy in the Tacoma
Several factors influence the Tacoma’s real-world mpg, beyond the basic engine choice. Understanding these helps set expectations and plan trips.
- Drivetrain: 2WD typically delivers better mpg than 4WD due to lower drivetrain losses.
- Engine choice: The 2.7L four-cylinder is more fuel-efficient than the 3.5L V6.
- Tire size and type: Larger or more aggressive off-road tires can reduce mpg compared with stock highway tires.
- Payload and towing: Heavier loads increase engine work and reduce fuel economy.
- Driving style: Smooth acceleration, steady speeds, and careful braking improve mpg; aggressive driving lowers it.
- Maintenance and conditions: Proper maintenance, clean air filters, and correct wheel alignment help, while cold weather and frequent short trips can hurt mpg.
Because many Tacomas are used for work or recreation, real-world mileage can vary significantly from EPA estimates based on how customers use the truck.
Tips to maximize fuel efficiency
Simple, practical steps can help you get the most miles out of a tank from a Tacoma, especially for daily commuting or light-duty work use.
- Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; underinflation reduces fuel economy and increases wear.
- Maintain steady speeds and use cruise control on highways when appropriate.
- Remove unnecessary cargo and avoid carrying extra weight that doesn’t serve a purpose.
- Plan routes to minimize idling and stop-and-go driving where possible.
- Use air conditioning judiciously; at highway speeds, A/C use is often more efficient than keeping windows down, but be mindful of drag at lower speeds.
- Follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule: replace filters, keep fluids fresh, and ensure proper alignment and tire rotation.
- Use the recommended octane and tires that match the factory specs for best efficiency.
Adopting these habits can yield meaningful fuel savings, especially for drivers who rack up a lot of highway or city miles in a Tacoma.
Real-world considerations and verdict
In everyday use, the Tacoma offers competitive fuel economy for a midsize pickup, with better efficiency in 2WD configurations and notable gains from the hybrid option. If mileage is a top priority, prioritize the 2WD 2.7L setup or consider the hybrid variant, and factor in payload and towing needs that can influence real-world results.
Bottom line: The Tacoma provides solid fuel economy within its class, with configuration and driving style playing the biggest roles in final numbers. For precise EPA ratings, consult fueleconomy.gov for the exact model year and configuration you’re considering.
Summary
The Toyota Tacoma can deliver good gas mileage for a midsize pickup, especially in 2WD form with the 2.7-liter engine and in the newer hybrid variant. Real-world mpg depends on drivetrain, engine, payload, and driving habits. Always verify exact EPA estimates for your year and trim and use those figures to estimate fuel costs for your typical usage.
