18 MPG combined. That’s the MPG for the 2022 Toyota Tacoma 4WD Double Cab with a manual transmission in TRD Off-Road Premium or TRD Pro trim. It’s a number that might deter some buyers, but for those interested in the Tacoma’s reliable charm and off-road abilities, it’s an acceptable trade-off. Owners typically aren’t focused on maximizing fuel economy; instead they want the truck’s capability and the unique manual transmission. This truck appeals to a specific niche.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates are what they are. The 2022 Tacoma 4×4 with the 3.5L V6 and 6-speed manual is rated at 17 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. That small difference reflects the engine’s behavior and the truck’s aerodynamics. The V6 needs to be worked to perform its best, something that happens in stop-and-go city driving. The upright windshield and boxy shape aren’t aerodynamic, so the highway figure isn’t much better. Remember, these are estimates, and your actual mileage will vary based on how you drive, the terrain, and the load it’s carrying.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Toyota Tacoma 4WD D-CAB MT TRD-ORP/PRO is $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Where you live, how much you drive, and fluctuating gas prices will affect what you actually pay. The $2,450 provides a benchmark for comparing the Tacoma to other vehicles, but it’s not necessarily what you will spend.

Real-world expectations

Expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions. If you frequently drive challenging off-road trails or spend time in low range, your fuel economy will drop significantly. Conversely, if you drive conservatively on the highway, you might see slightly better numbers. Aggressive acceleration will hurt your MPG. Many Tacoma owners report averaging around 16-19 MPG in mixed driving.

How it compares

The Tacoma’s fuel economy isn’t great compared to its competitors. A Chevrolet Colorado with the V6 and 4WD gets around 20 MPG combined, and so does the GMC Canyon. The Ford Ranger, with its turbocharged 2.3-liter engine, achieves slightly better numbers. The Jeep Gladiator, another off-road truck, gets similar fuel economy to the Tacoma, around 17-19 MPG combined depending on configuration. For buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency, these differences might matter, but those seeking a manual transmission in an off-road capable truck have few options besides the Tacoma. You should also compare TACOMA MPG across all years to see if older models would be more fuel-efficient.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Master the manual transmission. Smooth shifts and choosing the correct gear will improve your fuel economy. Avoid unnecessary revving and anticipate traffic to minimize braking and acceleration. Shift smoothly to keep the engine efficient.

Consider your tire choice. The TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro models have all-terrain tires that look good but increase rolling resistance. If you do a lot of highway driving, consider switching to a less aggressive tire with a lower rolling resistance rating. This should give you a noticeable improvement in fuel economy, especially if the original tires wear down and you aren’t frequently off-roading.

Lighten your load. The Tacoma’s fuel economy is affected by the amount of weight it carries. Remove any unnecessary gear from the bed and cab. Every pound adds up, especially during acceleration and hill climbs. Try to keep the vehicle lightweight if you are not off-roading.

Minimize idling. Idling burns fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, shut off the engine. Modern starters can handle frequent starts and stops and the savings will add up. Treating it like a hybrid will help with fuel economy.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. It’s simple, but often overlooked. Alter tire pressures when off road. And remember that you can find all Toyota fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub.com.