The 20 MPG combined fuel economy of the 2018 Toyota Sienna AWD with the 3.5L V6 reflects a compromise for families who prioritize space, all-weather capability, and Toyota reliability over saving gas. This isn’t a vehicle for maximizing MPG; it’s designed for families who haul kids, pets, and cargo in varied weather. Its priorities are focused on utility and safety.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Sienna AWD achieves 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects stop-and-go traffic, idling, and the weight of the all-wheel-drive constantly working by dividing power between axles. The highway MPG, while not outstanding, is respectable considering the Sienna’s weight and aerodynamic profile. The eight-speed automatic transmission keeps engine RPMs lower at cruising speeds. Most Sienna AWD drivers understand city and winter conditions mean lower MPG numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Toyota Sienna AWD at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, a mix of city and highway driving, and the national average fuel price. Fuel costs vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and miles driven. This $2,200 figure offers a benchmark to compare the Sienna’s fuel expenses with other vehicles and estimate your own costs.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world MPG can change. All-wheel-drive, while helpful in snow and rain, reduces fuel economy versus a front-wheel-drive model. Aggressive driving, short trips, heavy loads, and tire pressure all influence fuel consumption.

Owners tracking their fuel economy often report figures slightly below EPA estimates, especially with hills or bad weather. See all Toyota fuel economy data for more details.

How it compares

The Sienna’s fuel economy is mid-pack among minivans and large SUVs. The front-wheel-drive Honda Odyssey achieves a combined 22 MPG. The Chrysler Pacifica, in front-wheel-drive, also achieves slightly better numbers than the Sienna AWD, with an EPA combined rating of 22 MPG. The Pacifica Hybrid beats these figures significantly with its plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Few competitors offer AWD systems, so this matters when looking at SIENNA MPG across all years. For buyers requiring the traction and stability of AWD, the Sienna is one of the few choices in its class.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking optimize fuel economy in the Sienna. Avoid quick starts and anticipate traffic to minimize hard stops. The 3.5L V6 provides ample power, so don’t push the engine unnecessarily, a light touch saves gas.

Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door or in the owner’s manual. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, impacting fuel consumption. Check tire pressures regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce weight by removing unnecessary cargo. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder, reducing MPG. Remove clutter from the cargo area and passenger compartment to lighten the load.

Reduce extended idling. If stopped for over a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel, and it’s bad for your engine.

Plan routes to avoid congested areas and minimize stop-and-go traffic. Navigation apps identifying efficient routes can save time and fuel. Route adjustments improve fuel economy.