The 2017 Toyota Tundra 4WD with the 5.7L V8 gets 15 MPG combined. No one buys this truck expecting hybrid-like efficiency. This Tundra isn’t designed for hypermiling commuters, it’s built for hard work, towing heavy loads, and tackling challenging terrain. Fuel economy is a secondary consideration, a cost of doing business for a certain kind of truck owner.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Tundra’s fuel consumption at 13 MPG in city driving and 17 MPG on the highway. This reflects the engine’s tendency to operate at lower RPMs under light load on the open road, but also the significant fuel needed to get moving, and keep moving, its substantial weight from a stoplight. In stop-and-go traffic, the 5.7L V8 works hard, which predictably results in the lower city MPG figure. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally smooth and well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, but its gearing choices are ultimately calibrated more for capability than maximum efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the 2017 Toyota Tundra 4WD 5.7L will cost $2,900 per year in fuel. This figure assumes 15,000 miles driven annually, with a mix of city and highway driving, and is based on the national average fuel price at the time of calculation, which is published on fueleconomy.gov. The important point: gas prices fluctuate dramatically, so your actual fuel bill could be significantly higher or lower depending on where and when you fill up. The $2,900 figure provides a general benchmark, but individual spending habits will vary.

Real-world expectations

Do not expect to consistently achieve the EPA’s 17 MPG highway estimate, especially if you frequently tow or haul heavy loads. Real-world conditions like headwinds, hills, aggressive driving, and tire pressure all affect fuel consumption. Many Tundra owners report average MPG figures in the 13-16 MPG range, a reminder of what it takes to move a full-size, four-wheel-drive truck. Check TUNDRA MPG across all years to compare data from other model years.

How it compares

The Tundra’s fuel economy is worse than some of its competitors. The 2017 Ford F-150 4×4 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6, for example, achieves a combined EPA rating of 20 MPG, offering a noticeable improvement, at a cost of max towing. Even the Chevy Silverado 1500 4×4 with the 5.3L V8 manages a slightly better 18 MPG combined. These differences matter to buyers concerned about fuel costs, but the Tundra’s reputation for reliability and longevity often outweighs fuel economy concerns for loyal Toyota customers. It’s a trade-off: proven durability versus incremental fuel savings. Explore all Toyota fuel economy data to discover fuel-efficient alternatives within the model lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated. The Tundra is a heavy truck, and underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, thereby reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker inside your driver’s side door.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The 5.7L V8 consumes fuel even when the truck is stationary. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. It may seem insignificant, but these small savings add up over time.

Drive smoothly and avoid rapid acceleration. The Tundra’s V8 delivers plenty of power, but excessive acceleration wastes fuel. Accelerate gradually and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when they are not in use, as they increase wind resistance and reduce fuel economy. Even a slight reduction in drag can make a difference, especially at highway speeds.

Consider a less aggressive tire type when the factory tires wear out. The OEM tires feature an all-terrain tread pattern that makes this vehicle suitable for off-road duties, but these typically come with a fuel economy penalty compared to a highway tire.