The 2024 Toyota Tacoma SR5, Sport, or PreRunner 2WD with the 2.4L engine gets 22 MPG combined. It's a reasonable number for buyers who want reliability, resale value, and a useful truck bed more than ultimate gas mileage. They probably aren't considering a Prius.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 20 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the characteristics of the turbocharged 2.4L four-cylinder engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission in this Tacoma configuration. Stop-and-go city driving uses more fuel as the engine works harder to accelerate. On the open road, the Tacoma is more efficient because the turbocharger doesn't work as hard and the transmission can use its higher gears. Remember that these numbers are based on a standardized test. Your mileage may be different depending on how you drive and the terrain.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for this model. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. Gas prices change, which will affect your actual annual fuel cost. The $2,000 figure is a good comparison point, but factor in your driving habits and local fuel costs to get a more accurate estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a benchmark, consider real-world driving. Aggressive acceleration, hauling heavy loads, using four-wheel drive (which doesn't apply to this 2WD model), and driving in bad weather can lower fuel economy. The Tacoma, even in this 2WD, four-cylinder version, is often used for work, which can push fuel consumption above the EPA estimates. Expect a range, because the stated MPG is achievable in ideal conditions, but may be lower in regular use.

How it compares

The 2024 Tacoma's fuel economy is competitive. The Nissan Frontier, with its standard 3.8L V6, has an EPA combined rating of 20 MPG, so the Tacoma's numbers are slightly better. The entry-level Chevrolet Colorado, with its 2.7L turbo four-cylinder, gets 21 MPG combined. Ford’s Ranger, in its base EcoBoost configuration, gets 22 MPG combined. For better mileage, check all Toyota fuel economy data to see if a hybrid Tundra is a better fit. Tacoma buyers probably are considering reliability and resale value, where the Tacoma has traditionally done well.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive at a steady speed and don't accelerate too fast. The 2.4L turbo engine delivers power smoothly, so don't floor it. Gentle acceleration keeps the engine in its most efficient range, improving your MPG.

Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI, which is on the sticker inside the driver's side door frame. This also protects your tires from wearing out quickly.

Don't carry extra weight. Extra cargo in the bed or cab adds weight, which hurts fuel economy. Remove anything you don't need for daily driving. It all helps.

Plan your trips efficiently and combine errands. Short trips use more fuel than a longer trip. Combining errands and planning your route minimizes cold starts and reduces fuel use.

Consider the TACOMA MPG across all years across all models. There may be a more efficient version that works for you.