Which Toyota Tacoma gets the best mileage?

The two-wheel-drive Tacoma equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generally offers the best fuel economy in the current lineup. Exact EPA numbers vary by cab/bed size and transmission, so check the official ratings for your specific configuration.

How mileage varies across the Tacoma lineup

Fuel efficiency in the Tacoma depends on engine choice, drivetrain, and body configuration. In recent generations, Toyota shifted toward a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four as a primary powerplant. Two-wheel drive typically yields higher mpg than four-wheel drive, and lighter crew configurations (such as the smaller cab and shorter bed) can also improve efficiency. The result is that the best mileage is usually found in the 2WD Turbo 2.4L models, while 4WD and larger cab/bed combinations tend to use more fuel.

Key powertrain configurations that influence efficiency

Below are the main configurations that affect fuel economy in today’s Tacomas. The goal is to identify which setup tends to deliver the best mileage.

• 2.4L turbocharged inline-four, 2WD: Typically the top option for fuel economy in the lineup, especially with an automatic transmission.


• 2.4L turbocharged inline-four, 4WD: Still relatively efficient for a mid-size pickup, but mpg is lower than the 2WD version due to the added drivetrain load.


• 2.7L four-cylinder, 2WD: An older, naturally aspirated engine that generally drinks more fuel than the turbocharged option.


• 3.5L V6: A larger, older option that tends to deliver lower fuel economy compared with the turbocharged 2.4L in everyday driving.

Concluding note: With current engineering, the turbo 2.4L in 2WD configurations offers the strongest efficiency advantage, while adding 4WD and larger cab/bed options reduces fuel economy somewhat.

Maximizing mileage in real-world driving

Beyond hardware, driving habits and maintenance play a substantial role in mpg. The following guidelines help you extract more efficiency from any Tacoma configuration.

• Keep tires inflated to the recommended pressure; underinflation reduces fuel economy and increases wear.


• Use eco-friendly drive modes when available and appropriate for conditions.


• Limit roof- and bed-loaded drag by removing unnecessary gear or using aerodynamic accessories when not needed.


• Maintain smooth acceleration and a steady pace on highways; use cruise control on flat stretches to optimize fuel use.


• Follow recommended maintenance schedules: clean air filters, spark plugs, and oil changes support efficiency.


• Plan routes to avoid excessive idling and stop-and-go traffic when possible, which hurts mpg more than steady cruising.

Bottom line: While the Taco’s exact mpg depends on configuration and conditions, the 2WD turbocharged 2.4L variant is typically the most efficient, and mindful driving can help close the gap between EPA estimates and real-world results.

Summary

The best mileage Toyota Tacoma is the two-wheel-drive version equipped with the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine. This setup usually delivers the highest fuel economy in everyday driving, with four-wheel drive and larger cabs/beds reducing efficiency. For the most accurate picture, consult the EPA ratings for the exact trim, cab, bed, and transmission of interest, and apply mindful driving and maintenance practices to maximize real-world mpg.

What is the most reliable Toyota Tacoma model?

The best years for the Toyota Tacoma are considered to be 1995–2000, 2004, 2011, 2014, and 2015. Below, we break down the key points for each generation.

What Toyota Tacoma has the most miles?

The highest mileage Tacoma is a 2008 model with 1,625,000 miles, owned by Mike Neal. He used it for his medical supply delivery job, and the truck's extensive mileage was achieved over 16 years with routine maintenance, including an engine replacement at 880,000 miles and a transmission replacement at 1.3 million miles. The truck is now on display at the dealership where it was originally sold.
 
You can watch this video to see the 1.2 million mile Tacoma and hear its owner's story: 57sToyotaJeff ReviewsYouTube · Nov 19, 2018

• Owner: Mike Neal, a delivery driver from North Carolina. 
• Vehicle: A 2008 Toyota Tacoma Access Cab with a 2.7-liter 2TR-FE four-cylinder engine. 
• Mileage: 1,625,000 miles. 
• Usage: Delivered medical supplies, averaging about 500 miles a day. 
• Maintenance: Received routine maintenance, with the engine replaced at around 880,000 miles and the transmission at about 1.3 million miles. 
• Current status: On display at Fred Anderson Toyota in Raleigh, North Carolina, the dealership where it was purchased. 

Which Toyota Tacoma has the best gas mileage?

Toyota Tacoma MPG Ratings by Trim
That being said, to attain the cream of the crop, you'll want to opt for the 2025 Tacoma SR5 configured with rear-wheel drive for up to an EPA-estimated 21/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).

What Tacoma to stay away from?

When buying a used Toyota Tacoma, you should avoid the model years with the most reported issues, such as 2005–2006 (frame rust, head gasket issues) and 2016–2017 (transmission, engine, and infotainment problems). Other problematic years include 2000–2004, 2009, 2011, and 2012 due to issues like frame rust, engine, and transmission problems. 
This video discusses the model years of Toyota Tacoma to avoid: 56sEveryman DriverYouTube · May 30, 2024
Model years to avoid

• 2005–2006: Prone to extensive frame rust and other issues like head gasket problems. 
• 2009: Had issues with the infotainment system. 
• 2011: Had various engine and transmission issues. 
• 2012: Saw increased complaints about engine performance and electronic stability control. 
• 2016–2017: These first model years of the third generation had a high number of complaints, including transmission and engine issues. 

Common problems to watch for across multiple years 

• Frame rust: Particularly in models from 2005 to 2010 due to inadequate drainage. 
• Transmission problems: Including rough shifting, slipping, and premature wear on the clutch. 
• Engine issues: Such as stalling and excessive oil consumption. 
• Infotainment system problems: Including crashes and connectivity issues. 
• Paint peeling: Especially on the super white paint option. 
• Water leaks: A common problem in the third generation (2016-2023) from the third brake light. 

This video explains common problems with Toyota Tacoma that you should know: 38sFuel ForceYouTube · Sep 7, 2024
Important inspection tips

• Inspect the frame and undercarriage: Look for signs of rust or damage. 
• Check the transmission: Listen for strange noises or shifting problems, especially on models known for these issues. 
• Test all electronic systems: Ensure the infotainment system is working correctly. 
• Inspect paint condition: Look for any signs of peeling. 
• Check for water leaks: Inspect the area around the third brake light for any signs of water damage. 

You can watch this video to learn about problems to look for when buying a used Toyota Tacoma: 1mYourCarAngelYouTube · Jul 13, 2024