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What year 4 runner gets the best gas mileage?

When it comes to finding the most fuel-efficient year 4 runner, the Toyota 4Runner stands out as a top contender. With its impressive combination of off-road capability, spaciousness, and reliability, the 4Runner has long been a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts. But which model year delivers the best gas mileage?


Fuel Efficiency of the Toyota 4Runner


The Toyota 4Runner is known for its rugged design and off-road prowess, but it also offers respectable fuel efficiency for an SUV of its size. The 4Runner's fuel economy can vary depending on the model year, engine, and drivetrain configuration. According to the EPA, the most fuel-efficient 4Runner model is the 2022 4Runner with a 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive, which achieves an estimated 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway.


Factors Affecting Fuel Efficiency


Several factors can influence the fuel efficiency of a 4Runner, including:



  • Engine size and type: Smaller, more efficient engines generally provide better gas mileage.

  • Drivetrain configuration: Rear-wheel-drive models tend to be more fuel-efficient than four-wheel-drive variants.

  • Weight and aerodynamics: Lighter, more aerodynamic 4Runners can achieve better fuel economy.

  • Driving conditions and habits: Aggressive driving, frequent towing, and off-road use can all negatively impact fuel efficiency.


By considering these factors, you can determine the most fuel-efficient 4Runner model for your needs.


Comparing 4Runner Model Years


When looking at the fuel efficiency of different 4Runner model years, the most recent models tend to be the most fuel-efficient. The 2022 4Runner with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine and rear-wheel drive is the most fuel-efficient, followed by the 2021 and 2020 models with similar configurations. Older 4Runner models, particularly those with larger engines and four-wheel-drive systems, may have lower fuel economy ratings.


Ultimately, the most fuel-efficient 4Runner will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors like engine size, drivetrain, and driving conditions, you can find the 4Runner model that delivers the best balance of performance, capability, and fuel efficiency.

Which year 4Runner to avoid?


A: If you're not a mechanic or don't want to deal with extensive repairs, it's best to avoid the 2003-2005 fourth-generation 4Runner, 2001-2002 third-generation 4Runner, 1990-1995 second-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6, and 1988-1989 first-generation 4Runner with a 3.0-liter V6.



Will the 2025 4Runner have better gas mileage?


The 2025 model is expected to get around 16 mpg city and 19 mpg highway which is typical for a midsize SUV with off-road capability. Hybrid variants like in other Toyota models won't be available in the 4Runner for 2025 but fuel-saving technologies like an updated transmission will help improve overall performance.



What is the true gas mileage of a 4Runner?


Based on data from 117 vehicles, 8,125 fuel-ups and 2,210,590 miles of driving, the 2022 Toyota 4Runner gets a combined Avg MPG of 17.66 with a 0.06 MPG margin of error. Below you can see a distribution of the fuel-ups with 227 outliers (2.72%) removed.


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.