15 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel economy awards, but for the 2019 Toyota Tundra 2WD with the 5.7L V8, it’s par for the course. This isn’t a truck bought for its efficiency; it’s a truck purchased for its legendary reliability, its strong towing capacity, and its simple, rugged design. The Tundra 2WD 5.7L buyer is prioritizing capability and longevity over fuel savings, and that’s a perfectly valid choice when you need to move heavy loads or work on unforgiving terrain.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates a dismal 13 MPG in the city and a barely respectable 18 MPG on the highway. The city figure is less surprising given the 5.7L V8 needs a lot of fuel to get its heavy mass rolling from a stop. The highway figure is where you might see slightly better results if you keep your speed down and avoid aggressive acceleration. Fuel economy drops off rapidly above 65 MPH, as the Tundra’s aerodynamics are more “barn door” than “wind tunnel.” The 6-speed automatic transmission does its best to optimize power delivery, but there’s no hiding the fact that this is a big, powerful engine designed for work, not sipping fuel.

Annual fuel cost

Prepare for a significant annual fuel bill. The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost at a sobering $2,900. This calculation 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. If you drive more than 15,000 miles, or if fuel prices rise, expect that number to increase accordingly. This figure is a critical consideration for anyone considering a Tundra 2WD 5.7L, making it absolutely critical to budget accordingly. The annual fuel budget alone could eclipse payments on a more fuel-efficient vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. If you frequently tow or haul heavy loads, expect your MPG to be significantly lower than the EPA estimates. Short trips, stop-and-go traffic, and aggressive driving habits will also negatively impact fuel economy. However, if you primarily use your Tundra for highway driving and maintain a steady speed, you might see figures closer to the 18 MPG highway estimate. It’s important to understand your driving patterns to accurately anticipate your fuel costs.

How it compares

The Tundra 2WD 5.7L isn’t exactly a standout in its class for efficiency. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with the 5.3L V8 and 2WD configuration achieves a slightly better 17 MPG combined, and the Ford F-150 with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 and 2WD manages a more respectable 22 MPG combined. Even the Ram 1500 Classic with the 5.7L Hemi manages around 17 MPG combined. These differences might seem small, but they add up over the course of a year, resulting in hundreds of dollars in fuel savings. For buyers sensitive to fuel costs, these alternatives present a case. However, for those prioritizing the bulletproof reputation of the Tundra, the fuel economy penalty is often deemed an acceptable trade-off. Check out TUNDRA MPG across all years for a complete breakdown of fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Despite its thirsty engine, there are still ways to improve the Tundra’s fuel economy. The most impactful change you can make is to moderate your driving habits. Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, and try to maintain a consistent speed on the highway. The Tundra’s weight and powerful engine are penalized heavily by aggressive driving.

Regular maintenance can also play a role in optimizing fuel efficiency. Ensure your tires are properly inflated (check the sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb for the correct pressure) and that your engine is properly tuned. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns fuel more effectively.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the bed of the truck. The Tundra is already a heavy vehicle, and carrying around extra cargo will only worsen fuel economy. Remove any tools, equipment, or other items that you don’t need to carry regularly. Every pound counts when it comes to saving fuel.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine errands into a single trip to reduce cold starts, as cold starts are less fuel-efficient. Avoid rush hour traffic whenever possible to minimize stop-and-go driving. A little planning can make a surprising difference in your overall fuel consumption. See all Toyota fuel economy data for the brand’s models beyond the truck category.

Consider using the Tow/Haul mode carefully. While it’s essential for towing heavy loads, it also holds gears longer and increases engine RPMs, which negatively affects fuel economy. Only use it when you genuinely need the extra power and control.