The 2021 Toyota Camry with the 3.5L V6 engine has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 26 MPG combined. While some family sedans achieve better fuel economy, this MPG represents a reasonable balance with the V6 engine’s smooth power and easy acceleration. Those who want the best fuel savings may prefer the Camry Hybrid, but the V6 appeals to drivers who want performance and a more engaging experience. They understand that more horsepower means using more gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA also provides individual fuel economy figures for the Camry V6: 22 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city MPG reflects typical stop-and-go traffic and lower speeds, which reduce fuel economy. The highway number shows how efficiently the engine runs when cruising at a constant speed. The smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission, designated (S8) by the EPA, contributes to these figures. This transmission helps keep the engine in its optimal power band, which improves both performance and fuel efficiency. The numbers accurately show what the engine is capable of when driven at a comfortable pace.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Toyota Camry V6 at $1,700. This is calculated assuming 15,000 miles of driving per year and based on average national fuel prices, which change. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on how you drive, where you drive, and the price of gasoline in your area. Fuel consumption will increase with aggressive driving, while primarily highway driving may result in lower annual costs. The $1,700 figure should be considered an estimate, not a guarantee.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates offer a standard for comparison, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Some drivers report slightly higher or lower MPG than the official figures based on their specific conditions. Climate, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance all affect MPG. A Camry V6 driven mostly on flat suburban roads will likely achieve better fuel economy than one frequently driven on steep hills or in heavy traffic. Tire pressure and overall vehicle condition are important for maintaining optimal fuel mileage.

How it compares

The 2021 Honda Accord with the available 2.0T engine has a combined EPA rating of 26 MPG, which matches the Camry V6. The Nissan Altima, with its 2.5L engine, achieves a combined rating of 32 MPG, making it more fuel-efficient in the midsize sedan class, but it lacks the power of the V6. A similar V6-powered sedan, like the Kia Stinger GT, gets a combined rating of 20 MPG, showing that the Camry is relatively efficient for its performance level. Knowing the all Toyota fuel economy data compared with its competitors can help buyers decide if the V6 is the right engine for them.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating quickly. The Camry V6 responds quickly, but frequent hard acceleration wastes fuel. Accelerating gently allows the engine to run more efficiently, particularly when driving in the city. On the highway, use cruise control when traffic allows to maintain a constant speed and reduce fuel consumption.

Regular maintenance is essential. Keep your Camry’s tires inflated properly and follow the recommended schedule for oil changes and other services. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regularly check tire pressures because under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo in your trunk adds weight, which hurts fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items to reduce weight and improve MPG. This could be sports equipment or old tools.

Plan trips strategically. Combine errands into fewer trips to reduce cold starts, which use more fuel. Avoid driving during peak traffic to maintain a more consistent speed and improve fuel economy, especially if you want to improve the CAMRY MPG across all years.

Air conditioning uses extra energy, which reduces fuel economy. Use the ventilation system or roll down the windows when possible. At highway speeds, however, using the AC is often more efficient than opening the windows because of wind resistance.