22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards in 2024, but the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD wasn’t designed for maximum fuel efficiency. It was designed for hauling families, swallowing luggage, and providing reliably capable traction in all kinds of weather. Its target buyer – active families who value practicality and longevity above all else – considers fuel economy a factor, but not the primary driver in their purchase. The Highlander XLE AWD occupies a comfortable middle ground, delivering acceptable efficiency without compromising the features that matter most to its owners.

City and highway performance

The 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD offers its best fuel economy on the open road, achieving an EPA-estimated 26 MPG on the highway. This figure reflects the efficient cruising capabilities of its 3.5L V6 engine and smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. In city driving, the Highlander’s fuel economy dips to 20 MPG. Stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds make it harder to maintain optimal efficiency, and the all-wheel-drive system contributes to some loss. Still, 20 MPG is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and capability.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD at $2,386. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using fuel with the national average price. This number gives a general idea of what to expect, individual driving habits and local fuel prices can significantly impact actual expenses. For comparison shopping, that $2,386 is a good baseline number.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel efficiency. Conversely, attentive driving habits, consistent highway cruising, and regular maintenance can help owners achieve figures closer to the EPA’s estimations. Some owners report highway figures slightly exceeding 26 MPG when driving conservatively on long trips. Remember that while 22 is the official combined number, the final figure will come down to how the HIGHLANDER MPG is driven.

How it compares

In the mid-size SUV segment, the 2015 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD’s fuel economy is competitive, but other choices exist. The Honda Pilot offered similar performance with roughly 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway for its AWD variants. The Nissan Pathfinder with its CVT transmission could achieve slightly better highway numbers. The Ford Explorer, particularly with its optional turbocharged engines, typically lagged behind the Highlander in fuel economy, often struggling to reach 24 MPG on the highway. For families prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, the front-wheel-drive versions of these SUVs, or hybrid options like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid (not available in 2015) represent a more economical choice. Comparing all Toyota fuel economy data is key to understanding your other trim choices.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking can significantly improve fuel economy. Avoid rapidly accelerating from a standstill and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard braking. Drive smoothly, and don’t treat the gas pedal like an on/off switch.

Proper tire inflation is critical for optimal fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly, and restarting the engine uses less fuel than prolonged idling.

Keep your vehicle properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more cleanly and effectively, maximizing fuel economy. Ignoring scheduled maintenance can lead to decreased efficiency and costly repairs.

Consider removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle. Extra cargo adds weight, requiring the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Clear out any unnecessary items from the trunk and passenger area to reduce the vehicle’s overall weight and improve gas mileage.