15 MPG combined defines the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser Wagon 4WD 5.7L. Many modern car buyers would scoff at that figure, but it’s the cost for entry into a very specific club. This isn’t a commute-focused crossover, it’s a rugged, body-on-frame SUV designed for serious off-road adventures and overlanding. Owners aren’t prioritizing saving money at the pump, they’re prioritizing unmatched reliability, go-anywhere capability, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing their vehicle is built to last. Its fuel economy is largely irrelevant in the context of its mission.

City and highway performance

The Land Cruiser’s EPA ratings reflect its weight and older engineering. In the city, expect around 13 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration hurt fuel economy here. The highway figure is a slightly more palatable 18 MPG, but even that number is significantly lower than most modern SUVs, even those with all-wheel drive. The reason? A naturally aspirated 5.7L V8 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, along with a heavy curb weight. The Land Cruiser’s full-time four-wheel-drive system, essential for tackling challenging terrain, also contributes to the less-than-stellar fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Toyota Land Cruiser is $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. Given the Land Cruiser’s likely use case, often involving long road trips and off-pavement excursions, many owners will almost certainly exceed this figure. Premium fuel can further increase the price at the pump, causing the annual gasoline costs to increase to well over $3,000.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s figures. Real-world driving conditions, including weather, terrain, and your personal driving style, will likely impact your fuel economy. Off-roading, towing, or carrying heavy loads will drastically reduce MPG. Land Cruiser owners report averaging closer to 12-14 MPG in combined driving, especially if they frequently drive in urban areas or use their vehicle for its intended purpose: exploring challenging terrain. Understand LAND MPG across all years by reviewing models in our MPG database.

How it compares

The Land Cruiser isn’t competing with efficient crossovers, it’s competing with vehicles that offer similar levels of off-road capability and strong construction. For example, the 2016 Range Rover achieves around 16 MPG combined with its supercharged V6 engine, while offering a more luxurious experience. The Lexus LX 570, which shares its platform and powertrain with the Land Cruiser, offers virtually identical fuel economy. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, particularly with the optional V8 engine, offers slightly better fuel economy figures ranging from 14 to 17 MPG combined, but sacrifices some of the Land Cruiser’s legendary reliability and extreme off-road prowess. Buyers accepting the Land Cruiser’s fuel consumption would not be cross-shopping against a more efficient hybrid SUV.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the Land Cruiser will never be a fuel sipper, there are steps you can take to improve your MPG. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Land Cruiser’s weight and V8 engine respond poorly to sudden changes in speed. Maintaining a steady speed and anticipating traffic flow can significantly reduce fuel consumption.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the doorjamb sticker. For off-roading, use appropriate tire pressure and if you are driving on the streets, don’t forget to fill your tires to the typical tire pressure.

Minimize unnecessary weight. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle, as extra weight directly impacts fuel economy. Carrying around tools or equipment you don’t regularly use will only decrease your MPG.

Consider your route. Highway driving is generally more efficient than city driving. Plan your trips to minimize stop-and-go traffic and prioritize routes with fewer hills or challenging terrain. See all Toyota fuel economy data to learn more about what impacts fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is key. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Ensure your Land Cruiser receives regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.