27 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2019 Toyota 86 with the automatic transmission, it’s a perfectly reasonable figure. Nobody buys an 86 for its fuel efficiency. They buy it for its sharp handling, responsive steering, and overall fun factor. The 86 is a driver’s car first, and a fuel sipper a distant tenth. It’s a modern-day, lightweight sports car focused on delivering an engaging experience regardless of speed. Fuel economy is simply a secondary consideration, acceptable as long as it doesn’t detract from the driving enjoyment.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Toyota 86 (with the automatic) achieves 24 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the car’s nature.

The city MPG dips slightly due to frequent stop-and-go traffic, situations where the small 2.0L engine works harder to repeatedly accelerate the lightweight chassis. The highway MPG is respectable, as the engine settles into a more efficient cruising speed. However, aggressive driving on the highway, which is tempting in the 86, can significantly reduce that number. Consider the 32 MPG a best-case scenario achieved with a light foot and consistent speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Toyota 86 at $2,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, location, and the fluctuating price of gasoline. Someone primarily driving in congested city traffic will likely exceed this estimate, while someone who predominantly commutes on the highway might see slightly lower costs. Use it as a general marker, a point of comparison, not a guaranteed outcome.

Real-world expectations

While the official numbers provide a baseline, real-world MPG for the 2019 Toyota 86 often sits slightly below the EPA estimates, especially if you drive the car the way Toyota intended. Spirited driving, frequent gear changes (even with the automatic’s paddle shifters), and the urge to rev the engine all contribute to lower fuel economy. Owners report figures ranging from the low 20s to the high 20s for combined driving. Don’t expect to consistently hit 32 MPG on the highway unless you’re actively trying to conserve fuel. Check out 86 MPG across all years to get a wider range of user-submitted data.

How it compares

The 2019 Toyota 86 occupies a unique space in the market, sitting between more economical compact cars and more powerful sports cars. A Mazda MX-5 Miata, another lightweight sports car, achieves around 30 MPG combined with its automatic transmission, making it more fuel-efficient. However, the Miata caters to a slightly different audience, prioritizing open-top driving. A Honda Civic Si, with its 205-horsepower turbocharged engine, gets around 32 MPG combined, offering similar performance with better fuel economy. The difference lies in the driving experience. The 86 prioritizes rear-wheel-drive dynamics and a more raw, connected feel over outright efficiency. The Hyundai Veloster N, known for its performance and quirky styling, lands around 25 MPG, making it a comparable choice for shoppers. To explore all Toyota fuel economy data can give you a better-rounded point of comparison.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the temptation to constantly push the engine to its redline. The 2.0L engine enjoys revving, but maintaining a more moderate driving style will improve fuel economy.

Short shifting, even with the automatic transmission, can help keep the engine in its most efficient operating range.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended specifications.

Avoid unnecessary weight. While the 86 is already light, carrying extra cargo adds to the load the engine has to haul. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger compartment to reduce weight and improve fuel economy.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency, especially on long highway journeys. Cruise control prevents erratic acceleration and deceleration, contributing to smoother and more efficient driving.

Consider using a fuel additive designed to clean fuel injectors. Over time, fuel injectors can become clogged, reducing their efficiency and negatively impacting fuel economy. A fuel additive can help clean these injectors and restore optimal performance.