28 MPG combined is acceptable for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 AWD TRD OFFROAD 2.5L 4-cyl, but it’s not the main reason to choose this trim. This SUV is built for buyers who value rugged looks, off-pavement capability, and Toyota’s reliability more than fuel efficiency. These buyers know they’re accepting a slight MPG decrease compared to the standard RAV4 for the TRD OFFROAD’s unique suspension, all-terrain tires, and visual upgrades.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the RAV4 TRD OFFROAD are 25 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the added weight of the AWD system and the knobby tires, which increase rolling resistance. Aerodynamics play a larger role on the highway, and the TRD OFFROAD’s more aggressive tires and roof rack (if equipped) can affect efficiency at higher speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission optimizes the engine’s output for both scenarios, keeping the engine in its sweet spot for power and efficiency depending on driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Toyota RAV4 AWD TRD OFFROAD at $1,550 per year. This is based on driving 15,000 miles annually with a mix of city and highway driving, and it assumes the current national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and regional price differences. This cost gives potential buyers a benchmark for budgeting fuel expenses within the SUV’s ownership costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized testing, real-world fuel economy often differs. Drivers who frequently engage the RAV4 TRD OFFROAD’s off-road capabilities, or those who primarily drive in stop-and-go city traffic, will likely see MPG figures closer to the 25 MPG city estimate, or even slightly lower. However, drivers who mainly use the RAV4 for highway cruising, and practice smooth acceleration and braking, may find they exceed the 32 MPG highway rating. The EPA’s numbers are a guide, but your personal driving style and typical usage determine the ultimate result.

How it compares

The RAV4 TRD OFFROAD does well compared to other off-road-oriented SUVs. A Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk, for example, with its V6 engine, is rated at 21 MPG combined. Even the smaller Jeep Compass Trailhawk only achieves a combined 24 MPG. The Subaru Forester Wilderness comes in at 28 MPG combined, matching the RAV4 TRD OFFROAD’s figure. This shows the balance Toyota has achieved between capability and efficiency. Standard RAV4 models with AWD achieve slightly better figures, a clear sign of the trade-offs made for off-road enhancements found in the TRD OFFROAD. For example, consult RAV4 MPG across all years to show this.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. The TRD OFFROAD’s all-terrain tires are designed for grip, but underinflation increases rolling resistance, hurting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and keep them at the manufacturer-recommended PSI for optimal performance and efficiency.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The 2.5-liter engine rewards smooth inputs. Quick starts and hard stops waste fuel unnecessarily, especially with the added weight of the AWD system. Watch traffic and maintain a steady pace when you can.

Minimize idling. Modern engines are efficient when running, but extended idling burns fuel without covering any distance. Turn off the engine if you expect to be stopped for more than a minute. This can noticeably improve your overall fuel economy, especially in city driving.

Lighten your load. The RAV4 TRD OFFROAD is designed to carry cargo, but excess weight reduces fuel efficiency. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle, avoid using your RAV4 as a storage facility. The more you carry, the harder the engine has to work.

Consider lower resistance tires when your stock tires wear out. The nature of this vehicle attracts an owner who will want to replace the OEM tired with an even *more* aggressive tire, but if fuel economy is a growing concern, you can choose tires with very similar sizes but more streetable tread for less resistance. Don’t abandon the off-road look entirely, but make a measured decision based on where you drive.

That’s the fuel economy story with the Toyota RAV4 TRD OFFROAD. For all Toyota fuel economy data, check our other articles.