The 2017 Toyota Highlander AWD LE 3.5L 6-cyl achieves an EPA-estimated 23 MPG combined, a figure that won’t shatter any records but reflects a compromise for families prioritizing space, durability, and all-weather confidence over outright fuel efficiency. This is the appeal of the Highlander: a reliable, capable family hauler that understands its role in the daily grind.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down that 23 MPG combined rating into 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Highlander’s weight and the inefficiencies of its six-cylinder engine take their toll. However, the 27 MPG highway number is more palatable and achievable on longer road trips when the engine settles into a steady cruise. This spread is typical for a vehicle of this size and class, showing greater efficiency on the highway because of the ability to maintain consistent speeds and avoid the energy-sapping effects of constant acceleration and braking.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Toyota Highlander AWD LE 3.5L 6-cyl to be precisely $1,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a specific percentage of those miles driven in the city versus on the highway, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Individual fuel costs will fluctuate based on driving habits and local gas prices, but this $1,900 estimate provides a consistent benchmark for comparing the Highlander’s fuel consumption against other vehicles. For families on a budget, this number is a critical factor in the overall cost of ownership.

Real-world expectations

EPA figures offer a baseline, but real-world MPG often deviates. Aggressive driving habits, carrying heavy loads, and consistently using all-wheel drive can significantly reduce fuel economy. Conversely, a driver with a light foot who primarily uses the Highlander for highway commuting might see figures closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 27 MPG highway estimate. The 23 MPG combined rating is a reasonable expectation, but it’s important to drive mindfully to achieve it.

How it compares

The Highlander’s 23 MPG combined sits squarely in the competitive set for mid-size, all-wheel-drive SUVs with a V6 engine. The Honda Pilot, for example, earns a similar 22 MPG combined from its V6, but some drivers might prefer its slightly more refined driving experience. The Ford Explorer, with its available 2.3L EcoBoost engine, can achieve similar or slightly better fuel economy depending on configuration, but sacrifices some of the Highlander’s renowned reliability. Even a comparably equipped Nissan Pathfinder achieves roughly 22 MPG combined. These comparisons highlight that the Highlander’s fuel economy isn’t exceptional, but it is competitive. The decision often comes down to factors beyond MPG, such as brand loyalty, cargo space needs, and specific feature preferences. See HIGHLANDER MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is important. Avoid rapid bursts of speed, as this demands a significant amount of fuel. Gentle acceleration allows the Highlander’s engine to operate more efficiently, especially in city driving, leading to improvements in MPG. Think of a smooth, gradual increase in speed to conserve gasoline.

Regular maintenance will keep your Highlander running efficiently. Ensure the tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy. Keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements, as these simple tasks can have a notable impact on engine efficiency. Don’t forget to check all Toyota fuel economy data for more information.

Minimize idling time. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance, so avoid unnecessary idling, especially in traffic. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. This is especially effective in urban environments where traffic lights are frequent.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in your Highlander reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need on a regular basis, such as sporting equipment or tools, to lighten the vehicle’s load and improve MPG. The less the engine has to work, the more efficiently it will operate.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which optimizes fuel efficiency on long stretches of highway. By eliminating variations in speed, cruise control allows the engine to operate more consistently, resulting in higher MPG. Just be mindful of road conditions and disengage cruise control when necessary.