How many miles per gallon does a Toyota Tacoma get on the highway?
On the highway, a Toyota Tacoma typically achieves roughly 23 to 28 miles per gallon, with two-wheel-drive models generally at the higher end and four-wheel-drive versions slightly lower due to drivetrain weight and drag.
Over its generations, the Tacoma has offered several engine options, including a 2.7-liter four-cylinder, a 3.5-liter V6, and, starting with the 2024 model year, a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. Highway fuel economy depends on the engine, transmission, axle ratio, bed length, tire size, and payload, as well as whether the truck is 2WD or 4WD. The following guide outlines typical highway mpg ranges by configuration for common Tacomas.
Typical highway mpg by configuration
Below are the highway mileage ranges you’ll commonly see for different Tacoma configurations. These reflect EPA estimates for typical setups and real-world results can vary.
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder (2WD): about 23–25 mpg on the highway
- 2.7-liter four-cylinder (4x4): about 22–24 mpg on the highway
- 3.5-liter V6 (2WD or 4x2 with 6- or 8-speed auto): about 23–26 mpg on the highway
- 3.5-liter V6 (4x4): about 20–24 mpg on the highway
- 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (introduced for 2024 model year, 8-speed auto): about 26–28 mpg on the highway
These ranges provide a practical snapshot across common configurations. Exact numbers for a specific vehicle are found on the EPA window sticker or Toyota’s official spec sheet for that model year and trim.
What else affects highway mpg?
Several factors can push highway fuel economy higher or lower than the typical ranges shown above. Understanding them helps explain why two Tacomas with the same engine can perform differently at highway speeds.
- Drivetrain: 2WD typically delivers better highway mileage than 4x4 due to reduced drivetrain losses.
- Engine and transmission: newer turbo engines can offer higher highway efficiency, but weight and gearing matter just as much as horsepower.
- Aerodynamics and equipment: bed accessories, roof racks, spoilers, and bed covers can alter drag and affect mpg.
- Tire size and condition: larger, heavier, or underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce mpg.
- Payload and cargo: heavier loads reduce fuel economy, especially during sustained highway cruising.
- Driving speed and conditions: higher speeds increase air resistance; steady, moderate cruising improves highway mpg.
In practice, real-world highway mpg often falls within the EPA estimates but can deviate based on how the truck is configured and driven. For the most accurate figure, consult the specific model year’s EPA ratings and consider your typical highway speeds and cargo.
Tips to maximize highway mpg
Small adjustments can yield noticeable gains in highway fuel economy. The following practices are widely recommended for Tacomas and similar pickups.
- Maintain a steady cruising speed and use cruise control on highways with light traffic.
- Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure; underinflation hurts fuel economy.
- Streamline the vehicle: remove roof racks or cargo on top when not needed; reduce drag-inducing accessories.
- Plan trips to minimize idling and optimize routing to avoid traffic hot spots.
- Keep up with maintenance: clean air filters, properly tuned engine, and fresh spark plugs help efficiency.
While you can improve highway mpg with these tips, the best approach is to drive within the engine’s efficient range for your specific Tacoma configuration and consistently maintain the vehicle.
Summary
Fuel economy on the highway for the Toyota Tacoma varies by engine, transmission, and drivetrain. Typical highway mpg ranges are roughly 23–25 mpg for many 2WD configurations, 20–24 mpg for most 4x4 setups, and around 26–28 mpg for the newer 2.4-liter turbo option. Always check the exact EPA highway rating for your model year and configuration, and remember that real-world numbers depend on speed, payload, tires, and other factors.
