21 MPG combined is the figure that some owners fixate on when considering the 2017 Toyota Tacoma 2WD 3.5L. It’s not *bad*, exactly, but it’s a reminder that this truck prioritizes capability and durability over fuel efficiency. The Tacoma’s appeal isn’t about sipping fuel; it’s about tackling trails, hauling gear, and lasting for decades. Tacoma buyers are more concerned with reliability on backroads than maximizing miles per gallon on the interstate.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Tacoma 2WD with the 3.5L V6 at 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These numbers are affected by the truck’s design. In urban environments, the Tacoma’s weight and truck-like aerodynamics hurt fuel economy during stop-and-go traffic and lower speed limits.

On the open road, the Tacoma performs a bit better. Its taller gearing and engine efficiency take effect at constant speeds. However, the flat-sided design and higher ride height still prevent it from achieving truly impressive highway numbers. The six-speed automatic transmission is a competent unit but prioritizes smooth shifts over quick responses, which limits fuel-saving opportunities. The focus is on durability over fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Toyota Tacoma 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, regional fluctuations in gas prices and how well the vehicle is maintained.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA numbers give a baseline, real-world MPG for the 2017 Tacoma 2WD 3.5L 6-cyl often differs. Drivers who frequently use their Tacoma for work, hauling materials, towing small trailers, or navigating rough terrain, will likely see figures closer to the city estimate, or even lower. Conversely, those who primarily use it as a daily driver on relatively flat terrain, with conservative driving habits, may achieve results closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the highway number.

It all depends on how you use it. Aggressive driving and aftermarket modifications, such as larger tires or lift kits, will negatively impact MPG. Understand that the Tacoma’s nature encourages certain driving behaviors that aren’t necessarily conducive to efficient operation. All Toyota fuel economy data is available online for comparison across different models.

How it compares

The 2017 Tacoma 2WD 3.5L’s fuel economy is roughly in the middle of its class compared to other mid-size trucks. A similarly equipped 2017 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with the 3.6L V6 is rated at 18 MPG city and 26 MPG highway, giving it a slight edge on the highway. The Nissan Frontier, with its older 4.0L V6 from the same year, is EPA-rated at 16 city and 22 highway, making the Tacoma the more efficient option. The Honda Ridgeline, despite its unibody construction and focus on on-road comfort, is rated at 19 city and 26 highway, potentially making it a more efficient choice for buyers who don’t need serious off-road capability.

The comparison to the Ridgeline shows the trade-offs in the Tacoma’s design. It’s built for durability and off-road ability, characteristics that affect its fuel consumption. Consider all TACOMA MPG across all years before buying.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 3.5L V6 in the 2017 Tacoma benefits from smooth, gradual acceleration. Avoid aggressive launches and try to anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. Hard acceleration burns extra fuel, and this effect is amplified in a truck with a heavier curb weight.

Regular maintenance is critical for any vehicle, but especially for a truck designed for hard work. Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the door jamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which directly translates to reduced fuel economy. Also, ensure regular oil changes; old oil can increase friction within the engine.

Minimize the amount of weight you carry in the bed of the Tacoma. Extra cargo adds strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. If you frequently carry heavy items, consider removing them when they are not needed. Even a few hundred pounds can make a noticeable difference over time.

Reduce aerodynamic drag whenever possible. Remove any unnecessary roof racks or accessories that create wind resistance. Keep the truck bed covered, if possible, either with a tonneau cover or a camper shell, as this can help airflow over the vehicle and potentially improve highway MPG, even if only a little.

Use cruise control on the highway when safe and practical. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel consumption. Be mindful of hills and adjust your speed accordingly to avoid excessive downshifting, which will negate any fuel savings.