A combined fuel economy of 23 MPG isn’t going to set any records, but it’s entirely sufficient for the 2022 Toyota Highlander with the 3.5L V6. This isn’t a compact crossover designed for maximum thrift; it’s a capable, comfortable, and durable family hauler built to tackle road trips, school runs, and everything in between. Buyers in this segment prioritize reliability and space above all else, accepting the Highlander’s fuel consumption as a reasonable trade-off for its other strengths. They need three rows, and they need to know it’ll start every morning for the next decade.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2022 Toyota Highlander 3.5L V6 achieves 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect the engine’s performance across a range of driving conditions and the effectiveness of the eight-speed automatic transmission. The city MPG suggests that stop-and-go traffic will take a noticeable toll, while the highway figure is more respectable, reflecting the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. For families who frequently embark on longer journeys, the highway MPG is a crucial factor.

While the city figure is less impressive, many owners use this SUV for a wide range of tasks, and the overall 23 MPG combined figure feels broadly accurate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Toyota Highlander 3.5L V6 at exactly $1,900. This figure is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel prices at the time of the EPA’s testing. This cost provides a benchmark for potential buyers, helping them factor in the ongoing expense of owning the vehicle. While individual spending may vary based on driving habits and local fuel prices, the $1,900 estimate offers a reasonable approximation of what to expect at the pump. If you drive considerably more than 15,000 miles annually, or fuel prices spike dramatically, expect that figure to rise accordingly.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy will inevitably vary based on individual driving habits, terrain, and weather conditions. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Maintaining consistent speeds, anticipating traffic flow, and ensuring proper tire inflation can help drivers get closer to the EPA’s stated figures. Owners living in hilly areas or frequently driving in stop-and-go traffic can expect slightly lower MPG than those who primarily drive on flat highways. Reviewing owner reported fuel economy data can also give you a sense of how this vehicle performs; you can also review HIGHLANDER MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2022 Toyota Highlander’s fuel economy is competitive within the three-row SUV segment, but it’s not the class leader. For instance, the Honda Pilot, another popular choice, manages around 22 MPG combined with its V6 engine. The Kia Telluride, known for its value and bold styling, also posts around 21 MPG combined.

However, the Highlander holds an advantage over some competitors; the Nissan Pathfinder with its V6 typically achieves around 23 MPG combined, but often feels less confident due to its continuously variable transmission. These minor differences in fuel economy often take a back seat to other considerations, such as interior space, reliability ratings, and brand preference. The Highlander Hybrid, of course, is a different story, offering significantly better fuel economy; however, it also commands a higher price than the V6-powered model. And if you want to see how the brand stacks up overall, you can examine all Toyota fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Highlander’s V6 is responsive, but it doesn’t need to be floored at every green light. Smooth, gradual acceleration will significantly reduce fuel consumption, especially in city driving. Braking predictably, rather than at the last second, will help you save fuel, too; coasting up to stops is key.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a small increase in tire pressure can make a noticeable difference over time.

Minimize idling. Letting your Highlander idle for extended periods wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re waiting for someone or stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so there’s no need to keep them running continuously.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, preventing fluctuations in acceleration that can waste fuel. While adaptive cruise control can be beneficial, be mindful of its tendency to brake and accelerate more aggressively than a human driver would. Only use cruise control when conditions permit, heavy traffic doesn’t count.