21 MPG combined. That’s the fuel economy for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma 2WD equipped with the 3.5L V6, and it highlights the compromise in owning this truck. It’s not a vehicle purchased for its frugality, but for its legendary reliability, impressive capability (within its 2WD framework), and strong resale value, attributes that often outweigh concerns about fuel consumption for its target buyer.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for this specific Tacoma. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and lower average speeds where the V6 engine operates less efficiently. The 24 MPG highway rating shows its potential when cruising at a steady speed, though even then, the Tacoma’s aerodynamics and the weight of its components work against it. These are test results obtained under controlled conditions. Real-world performance depends heavily on driving style, load, and terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Toyota Tacoma 2WD 3.5L V6 at $2,100. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, assuming an average fuel price that’s current at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing fuel costs across different vehicles, but expect some fluctuations as fuel prices change and personal driving habits vary from the EPA’s assumptions.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized estimate, and owners report a wider range of fuel economy depending on their driving environment. Drivers in urban areas with heavy traffic may see figures closer to or slightly below the 19 MPG city rating. Conversely, drivers who spend most of their time on relatively flat highways at consistent speeds could achieve figures exceeding the 24 MPG highway estimate. Aggressive acceleration, carrying heavy loads, or using off-road tires (even if on a 2WD model) will also negatively impact fuel consumption.

How it compares

The Tacoma’s fuel economy isn’t class-leading. The 2023 Chevrolet Colorado 2WD with its base 2.7L turbo engine manages a combined 22 MPG. Even the Nissan Frontier 2WD, another mid-size truck, achieves 20 MPG combined with its standard V6. This difference, while small on paper, can add up, especially with rising fuel costs. For buyers prioritizing fuel savings, these alternatives might be worth considering. Balance fuel economy against other factors like reliability, resale value, and the overall ownership experience where the Tacoma often shines. You can find all Toyota fuel economy data on this site, as well as information about TACOMA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Driving style has a significant impact on fuel economy, especially with a naturally aspirated V6 like the Tacoma’s. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these consume more fuel. Gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help maintain a more consistent speed and improve efficiency.

Proper tire inflation is important for safety and for optimizing fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder, wasting fuel.

Minimize carrying unnecessary weight in the bed of the truck. The heavier the load, the harder the engine has to work, and the more fuel it consumes. Remove any items that aren’t essential for your daily driving or work needs. Even a few hundred pounds can negatively impact fuel economy.

Regular maintenance is important for vehicle performance, including fuel efficiency. Ensure that the engine air filter is clean, and that spark plugs are in good condition. A properly maintained engine runs more efficiently, resulting in better fuel economy and reduced emissions. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule outlined in the owner’s manual.