The 2020 Toyota Tacoma 2WD with the 2.7L four-cylinder engine gets 21 MPG combined. It’s not a fuel economy leader, but most Tacoma owners accept it as the price for a truck known for its reliability and high resale value. These buyers prioritize ruggedness, practicality, and the Toyota name over fuel efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2020 Tacoma 2WD 2.7L achieves 20 MPG in city driving and 23 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects urban stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works harder to move the truck. The highway estimate suggests the engine cruises efficiently at consistent speeds, but it won’t match some more modern, fuel-focused mid-size trucks. The highway MPG doesn’t stand out, but Tacoma owners are less likely to prioritize hypermiling and more likely to be carrying loads or towing, which affects real-world figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Tacoma at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Actual costs vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the truck’s use for work or recreation. This number helps compare the total cost of ownership against other vehicles.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a baseline, but real-world fuel economy varies significantly. Tacoma owners should expect mileage fluctuations. Towing, even light loads, decreases fuel economy. Aggressive driving, off-roading, and aftermarket accessories like larger tires or roof racks also negatively impact MPG. Drivers who stick to highway driving and maintain a steady speed are more likely to achieve the EPA’s 23 MPG estimate, while city drivers should anticipate numbers closer to 20 MPG. Check out TACOMA MPG across all years to see owner-reported figures.

How it compares

The 2020 Tacoma 2WD 2.7L’s fuel economy is in the middle of the mid-size truck segment. For example, the 2020 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with its base 2.5L four-cylinder achieves 22 MPG combined, which is slightly better. The Nissan Frontier, with its older powertrain, lags behind at 19 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger, with its turbocharged 2.3L engine, gets 23 MPG combined, which is considerably better. This comparison matters to Tacoma buyers who might be cross-shopping based on fuel efficiency alone. For many, the Tacoma’s longevity and strong resale value outweigh the slightly higher fuel costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.7L Tacoma isn’t particularly sensitive to driving style, but adopting a few simple habits can still make a difference. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, as these actions put unnecessary strain on the engine and waste fuel. Maintaining a steady speed on the highway will also improve efficiency, as the engine doesn’t have to work as hard to maintain momentum.

Ensure that your Tacoma is properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire pressure checks all contribute to improved fuel economy. A properly tuned engine runs more efficiently, and correctly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, saving you money at the pump. You can compare this to all Toyota fuel economy data to see how this compares to other vehicles from Toyota.

Minimize the amount of weight you carry in your Tacoma. The heavier the load, the harder the engine has to work, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the truck bed and cab to lighten the load. This is even more critical if you regularly carry heavier items for work or recreation consider consolidating trips whenever possible.

Consider using cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This can help prevent fluctuations in speed that waste fuel. Be mindful of traffic conditions and be prepared to disengage cruise control when necessary. Anticipating traffic patterns and avoiding unnecessary braking can also contribute to better fuel economy.

Finally, be aware of the impact of aftermarket accessories on fuel economy. Larger tires, lift kits, and roof racks can all increase wind resistance and weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. If fuel economy is a concern, consider carefully before adding these types of accessories to your Tacoma.