How Many MPG Does a Toyota Tacoma Get? The Toyota Tacoma is a popular midsize pickup truck known for its reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities. One important factor for many truck buyers is fuel efficiency. In this article, we’ll take a detailed look at the MPG (miles per gallon) ratings for various Toyota Tacoma models and years.
Factors Affecting Tacoma MPG
Several factors can impact the fuel economy of a Toyota Tacoma:
- Engine size and type (4-cylinder vs. V6)
- Drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD)
- Transmission (manual vs. automatic)
- Model year and generation
- Driving conditions and habits
MPG Ratings by Generation
Fourth Generation (2024+)
The all-new fourth generation Tacoma offers these estimated MPG ratings:
| Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.4L Turbo I-4 | 2WD | Automatic | 20 | 23 | 21 |
| 2.4L Turbo I-4 | 4WD | Automatic | 19 | 22 | 20 |
| 2.4L Turbo I-4 Hybrid | 4WD | Automatic | 24 | 30 | 27 |
The new hybrid powertrain offers the best fuel efficiency in the 2024 lineup.
Third Generation (2016-2023)
The third gen Tacoma offered these EPA-estimated MPG ratings:
| Engine | Drivetrain | Transmission | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7L I-4 | 2WD | Automatic | 20 | 23 | 21 |
| 3.5L V6 | 2WD | Automatic | 19 | 24 | 21 |
| 3.5L V6 | 4WD | Automatic | 18 | 22 | 20 |
| 3.5L V6 | 4WD | Manual | 17 | 20 | 18 |
The 3.5L V6 with 2WD and automatic transmission provided the best balance of power and fuel efficiency in this generation.
Second Generation (2005-2015)
Popular second gen Tacoma models had these MPG ratings:
- 2015: 2.7L I-4 (2WD): 21 city / 25 highway
- 2015: 4.0L V6 (2WD): 17 city / 21 highway
- 2010: 2.7L I-4 (2WD): 19 city / 25 highway
- 2010: 4.0L V6 (2WD): 17 city / 21 highway
The 4-cylinder engine was the more fuel-efficient choice in this generation, especially in later years.
Real-World MPG Experiences
Actual fuel economy can vary based on individual driving conditions and habits. Here are some real-world MPG reports from Tacoma owners on forums:
- “I’m getting 22-24 MPG consistently with my 2020 SR5 V6 4×4 automatic.” – TacomaWorld user
- “My 2016 Tacoma with the 2.7L 4-cylinder and 2WD averages about 23 MPG in mixed driving.” – TacomaHQ member
- “With my 2019 TRD Off-Road 4×4 3.5L V6, I average 19-20 MPG with a mix of city and highway driving.” – Reddit r/ToyotaTacoma poster
Maximizing Tacoma Fuel Efficiency
To get the best MPG from your Toyota Tacoma:
- Choose a 4-cylinder engine with 2WD if possible
- Opt for an automatic transmission over manual
- Use cruise control on highways to maintain steady speeds
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking
- Keep tires properly inflated and aligned
- Minimize excess cargo weight
- Perform regular maintenance like air filter replacements
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Which Toyota Tacoma model has the best MPG?
The most fuel-efficient Tacoma is typically a 2WD model with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine and automatic transmission, which can get up to 20 city / 23 highway MPG. In the 2024 lineup, the 2.4L turbo hybrid offers the highest ratings at 24 city / 30 highway MPG.
2. Is the Toyota Tacoma fuel-efficient compared to other trucks?
The Tacoma’s fuel economy is competitive with other midsize pickups like the Chevy Colorado and Ford Ranger. However, some newer full-size trucks with advanced powertrains can achieve higher MPG ratings.
3. How much does drivetrain affect Tacoma MPG?
Choosing a 2WD Tacoma over a 4WD model can improve fuel efficiency by about 1-2 MPG on average, due to the reduced weight and mechanical complexity.
4. Do Toyota Tacomas have good gas mileage?
For a midsize pickup truck, the Toyota Tacoma offers respectable gas mileage. While not as fuel-efficient as a sedan or crossover, the Tacoma’s MPG is on par with other trucks in its class.
5. How can I improve my Tacoma’s fuel economy?
To maximize your Tacoma’s MPG, drive smoothly, avoid excessive idling, minimize heavy cargo, keep tires properly inflated, and perform regular maintenance. Using cruise control on highways and planning efficient routes can also help.
Conclusion
The Toyota Tacoma delivers solid fuel efficiency for a midsize pickup, with MPG ratings ranging from 17/20 for a 4WD V6 manual up to 24/30 for the 2024 hybrid. Choosing the right engine, drivetrain, and transmission can help maximize your Tacoma’s gas mileage.
While not a class leader in pure MPG numbers, the Tacoma remains a well-rounded, reliable truck that balances performance and efficiency for many satisfied owners. With proper driving habits and regular maintenance, you can enjoy the versatility and capability of a Tacoma while still achieving respectable fuel economy.