20 MPG combined isn’t great fuel economy, but among full-size, rear-wheel-drive trucks, the 2022 Toyota Tundra 2WD with the 3.4L V6 is relatively efficient without sacrificing core capability. This isn’t a truck designed to win hypermiling competitions, it’s engineered for buyers who need a sturdy workhorse that can still manage respectable gas mileage on their daily commute and weekend hauls.

City and highway performance

The Tundra 2WD gets 18 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the truck’s size and weight, as well as the challenges of moving a large vehicle through stop-and-go traffic. The engine, while smaller than the previous generation’s V8, still has plenty of power, and the 10-speed automatic transmission helps optimize fuel consumption at various speeds. The highway MPG is better for long road trips, which many Tundra owners take, especially those towing campers or boats. Ultimately, the city MPG shows this truck performs better on open roads.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Toyota Tundra 2WD 3.4L V6 at $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on driving habits, fuel prices in your area, and the type of driving you do. Someone who uses their Tundra primarily for short city trips will likely exceed this estimate, while those who do mostly highway driving might see lower costs. $2,200 provides a benchmark for budgeting fuel expenses.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures provide a comparison, but real-world fuel economy can be different. Owners towing heavy loads, driving aggressively, or frequently navigating off-road terrain can expect significantly lower MPG than the official ratings. Factors like tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and even the weather can influence fuel efficiency. Many Tundra owners report fuel economy that aligns closely with the EPA estimates under normal driving conditions, but remember that these numbers represent an ideal scenario.

How it compares

The Tundra’s fuel economy is competitive compared to its rivals. The Ford F-150 2WD with the 2.7L EcoBoost V6 gets a slightly better 22 MPG combined, while the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 2WD with the 2.7L Turbo engine achieves a comparable 20 MPG combined. The Ram 1500 2WD with the 3.6L eTorque V6 also sees about 20 MPG combined. These small differences matter to buyers tracking purchase price and running costs, and who might also consider all Toyota fuel economy data. For buyers focused solely on fuel economy, these subtle differences could influence their decision. Research TUNDRA MPG across all years, too.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Tundra’s engine responds well to smooth acceleration and consistent speeds. Avoid sudden bursts of acceleration or hard braking, as these habits reduce fuel economy. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace when possible.

Tire pressure is important for fuel efficiency. Regularly check your tires and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and decrease MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the truck bed or cab. Carrying extra cargo adds load to the vehicle, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items that are not essential for your daily driving.

When towing, select the appropriate Tow/Haul mode. This mode adjusts the transmission’s shift points for performance and fuel efficiency when hauling heavy loads. Avoid exceeding the Tundra’s maximum towing capacity, as this can strain the engine and drastically reduce MPG.