25 MPG combined from the 2023 Toyota GR 86 equipped with the automatic transmission only hints at this car’s purpose. It’s not a hybrid, an EV, or a family sedan with a turbocharger. It’s a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive sports car designed for driving enjoyment first; fuel economy is secondary for its owners.

city and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the GR 86 are 21 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway. This difference reflects how the car is intended to be used. A GR 86 buyer will likely experience stop-and-go traffic, but the car truly shines on backroads and during spirited highway driving. The 2.4L naturally aspirated engine rewards drivers who explore its upper rev range, which hurts fuel efficiency. However, the relatively high highway figure shows that the car is reasonably efficient when cruising, thanks to the well-calibrated automatic transmission (S6).

annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Toyota GR 86 is $2,300. This is figured by driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% city and 45% highway driving, using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will change with driving habits, local fuel prices, and how often the car is driven hard. Those who regularly enjoy track days or spirited weekend drives can expect to exceed this estimate. You can view all Toyota fuel economy data on our site.

real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a starting point, but real-world MPG changes based on several things. Hard acceleration, frequent short trips, and skipping maintenance can all hurt fuel economy. Smooth driving, proper tire inflation, and following the factory maintenance schedule can help drivers get close to or even beat the EPA estimates. Owners report that a mix of responsible driving and fun results in numbers close to the official combined EPA figure.

how it compares

The GR 86’s fuel economy is decent for its class, but not the best. The Mazda MX-5 Miata, gets an EPA-rated 29 MPG combined with its automatic transmission. The Miata is more about lightweight agility and open-top fun, providing a different experience. The Subaru BRZ, which is mechanically the same as the GR 86, has the same 25 MPG combined rating. Other sport coupes like the Nissan Z have similar or worse fuel economy while making more horsepower, but they weigh more and are more complicated. Those buying a GR 86 want a certain amount of fun, affordability, and reasonable running costs. They want performance that is accessible and aren’t as concerned with speed. See GR MPG across all years.

tips to maximize efficiency

The 2.4L engine in the GR 86 responds well to smooth throttle inputs. Avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking because these use extra fuel. Pay attention to traffic and keep a steady speed when you can. Doing so will improve mileage and make driving more relaxing.

Make sure your tires have the right amount of air, as listed on the door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. Checking tire pressure often is a simple way to keep efficiency at its best.

Take extra weight out of the car. Removing heavy things from the trunk or back seat can improve fuel economy, but only a little. Every bit helps when trying for maximum efficiency, so take out anything that isn’t needed for your daily drive.

Even though it’s tempting, don’t always drive at high RPMs. The GR 86 is fun to drive hard, but shifting at lower RPMs during normal driving can really improve fuel economy. Save the high-revving fun for special times and enjoy relaxed driving the rest of the time.

Follow the factory maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug maintenance keep the engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine uses less fuel and performs as it should, providing the best mileage.