The 2021 Toyota Highlander, with its reliable 3.5L V6 engine, has an official EPA fuel economy rating of 23 MPG combined. This isn’t groundbreaking, but it’s not terrible either. It’s a pragmatic number for a pragmatic SUV, one that prioritizes reliability, space, and family-friendly features over cutting-edge fuel-saving technology. The Highlander V6 appeals to families who need three rows of seating but aren’t ready to embrace a minivan, and those buyers typically accept the fuel consumption as a trade-off for the utility and proven dependability.

City and highway performance

The 2021 Highlander V6 gets 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s performance in stop-and-go traffic, where the Highlander’s weight and traditional automatic transmission affect fuel economy compared to hybrid or smaller turbocharged engines. The 28 MPG highway rating is more respectable, achievable during steady-state cruising where the engine can operate more efficiently and use its eight-speed automatic transmission. Long road trips will yield closer to this figure, but around town, expect to see numbers closer to the 20 MPG city rating. This difference is important for potential buyers to understand: the Highlander’s fuel consumption changes noticeably depending on driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Toyota Highlander V6 is $1,900. This figure 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, local fuel prices, and the specific grade of gasoline you choose. $1,900 is a benchmark for comparing against other vehicles in its class, individual experiences could be higher or lower. The calculation assumes a typical mix of city and highway driving; those who primarily drive in congested urban areas should anticipate slightly higher fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing data, real-world fuel economy often differs. Highlander owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, but several factors influence actual MPG. Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, will decrease fuel efficiency. Carrying heavy loads or towing will also significantly impact MPG. Conscientious drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and maintain consistent speeds can often meet or even slightly exceed the EPA highway rating. The Highlander’s trip computer provides real-time and average MPG data, enabling drivers to monitor their fuel consumption and adjust their driving style accordingly.

How it compares

The 2021 Toyota Highlander V6 faces stiff competition in the three-row SUV segment. The Honda Pilot, with its 3.5L V6, achieves a similar 23 MPG combined rating. The Ford Explorer offers a range of engines, but the 2.3L EcoBoost turbo-4 is rated at 24 MPG combined, while the V6 versions are generally lower. The Kia Telluride, another popular choice, also lands around 21 MPG combined with its V6. The Highlander distinguishes itself with its available hybrid powertrain, which significantly improves fuel economy, but it comes at a higher upfront cost. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, the Highlander Hybrid is a good alternative, offering around 36 MPG combined. If you want to look at all Toyota fuel economy data, keep the hybrid in mind.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is key to maintaining optimal fuel economy in the 2021 Highlander. Ensure that the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces MPG. Also, keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements to ensure the engine is running efficiently.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The Highlander’s V6 engine consumes fuel even when stationary, so turning off the engine during extended stops, such as waiting in a parking lot, can save fuel over time. This is especially true in city driving where idling can become a significant contributor to fuel consumption.

Use cruise control on the highway when possible. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid abrupt braking, allowing the vehicle to coast whenever appropriate.

Consider the weight you are carrying. Removing unnecessary cargo from the vehicle reduces its overall weight, resulting in improved fuel economy. This is particularly important for families who often carry extra items in their vehicles. You can also search HIGHLANDER MPG across all years if you consider a different model year.