The 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD with the 3.5L V6 gets 20 MPG combined. This number might seem underwhelming on paper. But the Tacoma doesn’t compete on paper. It competes on trails, job sites, and anywhere else its owners need unwavering reliability. Those buyers aren’t prioritizing Prius-level efficiency; they’re prioritizing Toyota toughness.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2019 Tacoma 4WD V6 achieves 18 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, which typically penalizes larger vehicles. The Tacoma’s weight and focus on low-end torque contribute to this. On the highway, the 22 MPG rating is more respectable. However, aerodynamic limitations of the Tacoma’s upright design keep it from achieving fuel-sipping status. The six-speed automatic transmission contributes to these numbers, prioritizing durability over the fuel-optimizing transmissions found in some competitors.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD V6 at $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on where you live, how you drive, and the price of gasoline. If you drive significantly more or less than 15,000 miles per year, or if fuel prices in your area are higher than the national average, your costs will be different. This figure provides a useful benchmark, a standardized way to compare fuel expenses across different vehicles. You can also browse all Toyota fuel economy data to see how the Tacoma stacks up against other models in the brand’s lineup.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Owners often report figures that differ from the official numbers. Factors influencing fuel economy include driving style, terrain, tire pressure, and vehicle load. Aggressive acceleration, frequent off-roading, or carrying heavy loads will all decrease fuel economy. Gentle driving and proper maintenance can help you achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates. Many owners accept slightly lower-than-advertised numbers as the trade-off for the Tacoma’s capabilities and longevity.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2019 Toyota Tacoma 4WD V6’s fuel economy falls in the middle of the pack. For example, the Chevrolet Colorado 4WD with the 3.6L V6 is rated at a nearly identical 20 MPG combined. The Ford Ranger 4×4, equipped with its 2.3L EcoBoost engine, manages a slightly better 22 MPG combined. The Jeep Gladiator, offered with a 3.6L V6, lands around 19 MPG combined. These small differences often aren’t the deciding factor for Tacoma buyers. Factors like resale value, reputation for reliability, and off-road prowess carry far more weight than a single MPG point. You may also want to check TACOMA MPG across all years for a broader view.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire pressure can have a noticeable impact on fuel economy, especially in a vehicle like the Tacoma. Check your tire pressure regularly, and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side door. Even a few PSI below the recommended level can increase rolling resistance and decrease fuel efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling. The 3.5L V6 consumes fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. This is especially important in urban environments where drivers often encounter prolonged traffic signals or wait in queues.

Gentle acceleration and gradual braking also help optimize fuel consumption. The Tacoma’s engine is designed to deliver ample low-end torque, so there’s no need to aggressively accelerate from a stop. Anticipate traffic flow and gradually increase or decrease your speed to avoid sudden bursts of acceleration or hard braking.

Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, contributes to optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. A clean air filter ensures proper airflow to the engine, while fresh oil reduces friction and helps the engine run smoothly. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule to keep your Tacoma in top condition.

Consider the impact of aftermarket modifications. Larger tires, lift kits, and heavy accessories can all negatively impact fuel economy. While these modifications enhance the Tacoma’s capabilities, they also add weight and increase aerodynamic drag. Be mindful of the trade-offs between performance enhancements and fuel efficiency.