19 MPG combined is a stark number, but it’s also the price of admission to a specific club: owners of the 2016 Toyota 4Runner 2WD with the reliable 4.0L V6. This isn’t a vehicle bought for hypermiling; it’s bought for enduring reliability, body-on-frame construction, and a rugged aesthetic that suggests adventure, even if that adventure is primarily navigating suburban parking lots. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency simply aren’t shopping for a 4Runner. They’re looking elsewhere, and they have plenty of options.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2016 4Runner 2WD are 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. Consider these figures a best-case scenario, achieved under ideal conditions. The city MPG reflects the realities of stop-and-go traffic, where the 4.0L engine and five-speed automatic transmission work harder to move the 4Runner’s mass from a standstill. Highway MPG is more achievable on longer, sustained drives at consistent speeds, but even gentle acceleration or increased wind resistance will noticeably impact fuel consumption. Knowing how you drive will tell you where you fall on this spectrum.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Toyota 4Runner 2WD at $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important to understand that this is an estimate and your actual fuel costs could be significantly higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. For some 4Runner owners, this cost is just something they accept as part of owning an uncompromising SUV designed for durability above all else. For others, it’s a wake-up call, and provides added incentive to maximize efficiency.

Real-world expectations

Don’t expect to consistently match the EPA’s figures. The 4Runner’s real-world fuel economy is highly dependent on driving style, load, and terrain. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and carrying heavy cargo will all negatively impact MPG. The 4Runner’s boxy shape and less-than-aerodynamic design aren’t conducive to fuel efficiency at higher speeds. Many owners report combined MPG figures closer to the 16-18 MPG range in mixed driving conditions. Understanding this difference between official estimates and real-world performance is vital.

How it compares

The 2016 4Runner’s fuel economy is not stellar when viewed against other mid-size SUVs of the same era. The 2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee 2WD with its 3.6L V6 engine boasted a combined MPG of 21. The Honda Pilot, known for its family-friendly appeal and less rugged design, achieved 22 MPG combined in its 2016 guise. Even the Nissan Murano with its focus on style and comfort, delivered 24 MPG combined in 2016. None of these vehicles offer the same level of off-road capability or truck-like toughness as the 4Runner.

Buyers accept this trade-off, prioritizing durability and capability over outright fuel savings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and anticipation of traffic flow are key to saving fuel in the 4Runner. The 4.0L V6 delivers plenty of low-end torque so there is typically no need to stomp on the accelerator to get up to speed. By easing onto the throttle, you minimize the amount of fuel consumed during acceleration.

Regular maintenance, including tire inflation and air filter replacement, is critical. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, which also strains the engine. Staying on top of maintenance ensures the engine runs as efficiently as possible.

Reduce unnecessary weight by removing cargo that isn’t needed. The 4Runner is a capable hauler, but carrying extra weight adds to the engine’s workload. A lighter vehicle consumes less gas. Remove recreational equipment only being used seasonally.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re waiting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is especially relevant during short stops, such as waiting in a parking lot or at a railroad crossing. The 4Runner’s engine is strong and reliable, so starting and stopping won’t cause undue wear and tear.

Consider cruise control on the highway. It helps maintain a consistent speed, which minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. This can result in a noticeable improvement in highway fuel economy. When not using cruise control, be mindful of the throttle and avoid erratic speed changes.

Learn all Toyota fuel economy data. Check 4RUNNER MPG across all years.