The 2015 Toyota Highlander with the 2.7L four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive gets 22 MPG combined, a reminder that practicality sometimes comes at a fuel-economy cost. This isn’t a hyper-efficient hybrid, nor is it trying to be. This Highlander configuration is for buyers prioritizing Toyota’s reliability and the spaciousness of a three-row SUV, even while accepting middling fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 20 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the four-cylinder engine works harder to move the Highlander’s weight. The highway number is better, but don’t expect to consistently achieve it if you’re frequently accelerating to pass or driving at higher speeds; this engine needs to work to get the vehicle moving. The six-speed automatic transmission does its best to optimize fuel efficiency, but it’s not enough to overcome the limitations of a small engine in a large vehicle. These numbers are for the front-wheel-drive version; adding all-wheel drive, which isn’t available with the 2.7L engine, would lower the MPG further.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2015 Toyota Highlander 2WD 2.7L is $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving, prolonged idling, and consistent short trips will all increase your annual fuel costs. Conversely, gentle acceleration, highway cruising, and well-maintained tires can help you get closer to (or even slightly exceed) the EPA’s estimate. You can find all Toyota fuel economy data on our website.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a benchmark, real-world MPG often differs. Owners of the 2015 Highlander 2.7L frequently report numbers slightly below the official figures, particularly in mixed driving conditions. If you live in a city with frequent traffic congestion, expect something closer to 18-21 MPG in combined use. On long highway trips, maintaining a steady speed around 65 MPH should yield figures closer to the EPA’s 25 MPG estimate. The key is to drive smoothly, avoid unnecessary acceleration, and anticipate traffic flow. Remember that factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and the use of air conditioning will also influence your fuel economy.

How it compares

The 2015 Highlander 2.7L faced considerable competition. For example, A 2015 Honda Pilot offered similar interior space, but its V6 engine delivered slightly better combined fuel economy, around 21 MPG. A Nissan Pathfinder, also equipped with a V6, landed in the same ballpark. Even the V6-powered 2015 Toyota Highlander (which is far more common than the 4-cylinder) managed to achieve an EPA combined rating of 20 MPG, hardly a penalty for the extra power. Buyers choosing the 2.7L Highlander weren’t necessarily prioritizing fuel economy above all else. They likely favored the lower initial purchase price of the four-cylinder model and the Toyota reputation for bulletproof reliability, even if it meant sacrificing a bit at the pump. Owners willing to compromise on interior space might’ve also considered a smaller, more efficient SUV like a Toyota RAV4, which could deliver closer to 25 MPG combined. Be sure to compare HIGHLANDER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Given the 2.7L engine’s relatively modest power output, avoid aggressive acceleration. Treat the throttle gently, allowing the engine to gradually build speed. Hard acceleration puts extra strain on the engine, forcing it to consume more fuel. Predict the road ahead and ease off the accelerator well in advance of stoplights or traffic, letting the vehicle coast. This allows the engine to use less fuel and reduces wear on your brakes.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and decreasing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, referencing the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended PSI. Also, consider using low-rolling-resistance tires when it’s time for a replacement; they can slightly improve your MPG without sacrificing ride quality.

Limit the use of accessories that draw power from the engine. Air conditioning, in particular, can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially in city driving. When possible, use the vehicle’s ventilation system instead of the A/C. Also, minimize the use of power-draining features like heated seats and rear defrosters unless absolutely necessary.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Excess cargo in the vehicle adds to its overall weight, which directly impacts fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and rear seats. Even small weight reductions can make a difference, especially when combined with other fuel-saving techniques.