The 2018 Toyota Sienna 2WD 3.5L gets 22 MPG combined. This isn’t shocking, nor is it particularly impressive. It’s simply what it costs to own a minivan, a price many families are willing to pay for the unmatched practicality and space that only a minivan can provide. This Sienna configuration is for families needing maximum passenger and cargo volume without the added complexity and weight of all-wheel drive.

City and highway performance

The Sienna’s EPA ratings are 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the Sienna’s weight and naturally aspirated 3.5L V6 engine work harder. Getting 27 MPG on the highway requires a light foot and consistent speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps, allowing the engine to cruise at lower RPMs for improved efficiency at higher speeds. Remember that fully loading the Sienna with passengers and cargo will negatively impact both city and highway figures.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2018 Toyota Sienna 2WD 3.5L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the percentage of city versus highway driving. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and higher fuel prices will all mean exceeding that $2,000 estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG often differs. Sienna owners frequently report numbers close to the EPA estimates, but some see slightly lower figures in predominantly city driving. Consistent highway driving, especially on road trips, can push the average closer to or even slightly above 27 MPG.

A heavy foot or constant use of the air conditioning, especially in hot climates, will lower those numbers. Ultimately, responsible driving habits have the most significant influence.

How it compares

The minivan segment is relatively small, making direct comparisons straightforward. The 2018 Honda Odyssey, the Sienna’s main competitor, achieves a nearly identical 22 MPG combined (19 city/28 highway) with its 3.5L V6. The Chrysler Pacifica, another popular choice, also mirrors the Sienna’s fuel economy, with its gasoline version achieving 22 MPG combined (19 city/28 highway). The Pacifica also offered a plug-in hybrid version that greatly enhanced fuel economy with electric drive capability, making it an outlier in the segment.

Given the close MPG figures, buyers shopping for maximum fuel efficiency may wish to browse SIENNA MPG across all years to see if older model years show greater differences. For those interested in a broader view, all all Toyota fuel economy data can be found online.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Consistent tire pressure is critical, particularly in a vehicle as large as the Sienna. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, directly impacting fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Sienna, while adequately powered, is not designed for rapid starts or frequent hard stops. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow allows the transmission to shift smoothly and keeps the engine operating within its most efficient range.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds to the vehicle’s overall weight, requiring more energy to move. Regularly remove items you don’t need to improve fuel economy, especially before long trips.

Minimize idling. Excessive idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, saving fuel in the long run.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This leads to more efficient fuel consumption during long-distance driving.