The 2024 Toyota Mirai XLE gets 74 MPG combined, placing it among the few vehicles that don’t use gasoline. This figure reflects the efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells, which turn hydrogen into electricity to power the Mirai’s electric motor. The Mirai targets environmentally conscious buyers who value cutting-edge technology, are willing to invest in a vehicle demonstrating their commitment to sustainability, and live in California where hydrogen refueling infrastructure exists.

City and highway performance

The Mirai’s combined MPG is impressive, and its city and highway figures are worth consideration. The EPA estimates 76 MPG in the city and 71 MPG on the highway. Electric vehicles and fuel cell vehicles typically see a slight edge in city driving because regenerative braking captures energy during stop-and-go driving, boosting efficiency. Highway driving remains efficient, but maintaining higher speeds requires more continuous power from the fuel cell, reducing the MPG rating.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Toyota Mirai XLE at $709. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average hydrogen fuel prices. Hydrogen fuel prices can vary significantly by region, and the EPA uses an average national price, which fluctuates. The $709 figure is a reasonable starting point for Mirai drivers in California, where hydrogen fueling stations are concentrated. However, actual fuel cost depends on local hydrogen prices and individual driving habits. It’s important to compare MIRAI MPG across all years to see longer term data, because fuel economy numbers have remained relatively consistent.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy can fluctuate. Driving style, weather, and climate control use affect the Mirai’s efficiency. Aggressive acceleration and high-speed driving use hydrogen fuel more quickly. Cold weather can also reduce the fuel cell’s efficiency.

Many Mirai drivers achieve figures close to the EPA estimates by prioritizing smooth acceleration and efficient driving. As in hybrids, smooth and gradual inputs matter in hydrogen vehicles.

How it compares

The Mirai doesn’t compete with gasoline-powered vehicles regarding energy efficiency; it competes with other alternative-fuel vehicles. The Hyundai Nexo Limited, another hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, achieves an EPA-estimated 61 MPG combined. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range, a popular electric vehicle, achieves 132 MPGe combined (miles per gallon equivalent, used to compare electric vehicle efficiency to gasoline vehicles). While the Model 3 has a higher MPGe, it uses battery charging instead of hydrogen refueling. The BMW i5 eDrive40 achieves 109 MPGe, also exceeding the MIRAI MPG figures. For the Mirai buyer, the choice involves more than efficiency numbers; it involves the technology. They are attracted to hydrogen power and the quick refueling that hydrogen offers, unlike electric vehicle charging. If you’re curious about the efficiency of other vehicles made by this manufacturer, you can review all Toyota fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden acceleration and braking. A smooth and consistent driving style helps the fuel cell operate at its most efficient output.

Gently lift off the accelerator well in advance of stops to effectively use regenerative braking. This captures kinetic energy and converts it back into electricity, extending the driving range.

Minimize climate control use, particularly in extreme temperatures. Heating and air conditioning draw power from the fuel cell, reducing efficiency. When practical, use seat heaters or ventilation to manage cabin temperature, as they use less energy.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the fuel cell work harder to maintain speed. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate tires to the recommended level on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Use the Mirai’s driving modes. If equipped, select “Eco” mode to prioritize fuel efficiency. This mode typically limits acceleration and adjusts vehicle settings to optimize energy consumption. Note that “Eco” mode may reduce performance, such as when merging onto the highway.