The 2016 Toyota Tundra 2WD FFV with the 5.7L V8 gets 15 MPG combined. Many truck buyers accept this, knowing they’re prioritizing capability, reliability, and the size of a full-size pickup over fuel savings. This isn’t a vehicle purchased to save fuel; it’s a tool, a statement, and for many, a necessity.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Tundra 2WD FFV at 13 MPG in the city and 18 MPG on the highway. These figures show what to expect: a large engine paired with a traditional automatic transmission. Stop-and-go driving in urban environments punishes the 5.7L V8, decreasing fuel economy considerably. Highway driving offers a slight break, but the Tundra’s aerodynamics and weight still contribute to high fuel consumption, even at a steady cruising speed.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Toyota Tundra 2WD FFV at exactly $2,900 per year. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles annually, using a national average fuel price. Fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices, but this $2,900 estimate provides a benchmark for comparing the Tundra’s operating expenses to other vehicles. This is a number that often gets overlooked in the showroom but matters during ownership.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing method, but real-world MPG often differs. Tundra owners should expect to see numbers generally in line with the EPA ratings, but factors like towing, payload, aggressive driving, and aftermarket modifications will significantly impact fuel economy. Cold weather, especially in northern climates, can also decrease fuel efficiency. Those frequently using the Tundra for hauling equipment or towing trailers will likely see MPG figures closer to the city rating, or even lower.

How it compares

The 2016 Tundra’s fuel economy is near the bottom of the full-size truck segment. A comparable 2016 Ford F-150 2WD with the 5.0L V8 manages around 18 MPG combined, while a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD with the 5.3L V8 achieves a similar MPG rating. Even the Ram 1500 posts similar numbers with its 5.7L Hemi. These incremental differences might seem minor, but they add up over the life of the vehicle, and are a key data point you can use on all Toyota fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Tundra’s V8 responds well to gentle throttle inputs; excessive stomping only wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary wear. Watch traffic and drive smoothly.

Checking your tire pressure regularly and inflating to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found on the sticker in your driver’s side door jamb, is important. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing fuel economy.

The Tundra’s engine consumes a surprising amount of fuel when idling. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, shut off the engine. Restarting the engine consumes less fuel than prolonged idling.

Consider a lightweight bed cover. Securing your cargo reduces aerodynamic drag, and a full tonneau made of composite material contributes to the problem significantly less than a topper. Remember to drive in accordance with your vehicle’s GVWR; you can review the TUNDRA MPG across all years and specifications for more details.