The 20 MPG combined fuel economy of the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L 4-cylinder won’t win any efficiency awards, but most owners accept it because they prioritize capability and reliability over fuel savings. This Tacoma caters to buyers who need a dependable workhorse, often for off-road adventures or rugged job sites, but don’t necessarily want V6 power or the higher price that comes with it. For these buyers, the 2.7L four-cylinder offers a balance of utility and affordability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L at 19 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the truck’s design, which favors durability over aerodynamic efficiency. The four-wheel-drive system also contributes to the lower numbers, as the extra weight and mechanical drag impact fuel consumption, especially in urban driving conditions. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth and reliable, is geared more for getting the most out of the 2.7L’s torque rather than maximizing fuel economy on long highway stretches.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L is $2,200. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using the national average fuel price. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use (the 2.7L Tacoma doesn’t require premium), and local fuel prices. Someone who frequently tows or drives in demanding off-road conditions will likely exceed this figure, while a driver who mostly uses the truck for light-duty tasks might come in under the $2,200 estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized rating, and real-world fuel economy for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L can vary significantly. Many owners say that achieving the stated 22 MPG highway figure requires a conscious effort to drive conservatively. Factors like tire pressure, cargo weight, driving speed, and even the use of accessories like roof racks can all impact fuel consumption. Off-road driving, with its lower speeds and higher engine loads, will generally result in considerably lower MPG figures. The EPA numbers provide a baseline, so prospective buyers should consider their intended use of the truck.

How it compares

The 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD 2.7L’s fuel economy sits squarely in the middle when compared to other trucks in its class. A similar configuration of the Chevrolet Colorado with its 2.5L four-cylinder engine achieves around 22 MPG combined. The Nissan Frontier 4×4 with its standard V6 fairs worse, with an EPA-estimated 17 MPG combined. This comparison shows why some buyers choose the Tacoma’s 2.7L. They accept the 20 MPG in exchange for Toyota’s renowned reliability and the lower upfront cost compared to V6 models or competitors with less proven track records. You can explore all Toyota fuel economy data to see how the Tacoma’s efficiency changed over the years, and see TACOMA MPG across all years for a more granular look.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Keep your tires properly inflated. The recommended tire pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Regularly checking and maintaining the correct tire pressure is a simple way to save fuel.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking consume significantly more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary braking can improve your MPG.

Minimize idling time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. This is especially important in urban environments where you might encounter frequent stops at traffic lights.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo in the bed or cab of the truck reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to haul to lighten the load and improve efficiency. Every extra pound counts against the 2.7L.

Consider your speed on the highway. Aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed. Driving at a slightly lower speed, say 65 mph instead of 75 mph, can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption on long trips, especially with the Tacoma’s less-than-ideal aerodynamics.