What To Know
- When it comes to full-size and midsize pickup trucks, the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma stand out as two of the most popular choices in the market.
- The Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma MPG comparison reveals that the Tacoma is the clear winner in terms of fuel efficiency.
- The average fuel economy of the Toyota Tundra is 16 mpg combined, while the average fuel economy of the Toyota Tacoma is 21 mpg combined.
<h1>Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma MPG: Fuel Efficiency Face-Off
When it comes to full-size and midsize pickup trucks, the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma stand out as two of the most popular choices in the market. While both offer impressive capabilities, fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many drivers. In this blog post, we delve into the Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma MPG comparison to help you make an informed decision about which truck is the better choice for your fuel-saving needs.
Engine Options and Fuel Economy
The Toyota Tundra and Tacoma offer a range of engine options that cater to different performance and efficiency requirements.
Toyota Tundra
- 5.7L V8 engine: 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway (2WD)
- 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (2WD)
Toyota Tacoma
- 2.7L 4-cylinder engine: 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (2WD)
- 3.5L V6 engine: 18 mpg city / 22 mpg highway (2WD)
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy
Several factors can influence the fuel economy of the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma, including:
- Engine size: Larger engines typically consume more fuel.
- Drive type: Two-wheel drive (2WD) models are generally more fuel-efficient than four-wheel drive (4WD) models.
- Payload and towing: Carrying heavy loads or towing a trailer can decrease fuel efficiency.
- Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration, excessive idling, and speeding can all reduce MPG.
Real-World Fuel Economy
Based on real-world driving conditions, the Toyota Tacoma consistently delivers better fuel economy than the Tundra. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Tacoma 2.7L 4-cylinder engine achieves an average of 21 mpg combined (city and highway), while the Tundra 5.7L V8 engine averages only 15 mpg combined.
Cost of Fuel
Fuel costs are a significant expense for truck owners. Over time, the difference in fuel economy between the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma can translate into substantial savings. Assuming you drive 15,000 miles per year and the average gas price is $3.50 per gallon, you could save approximately $300 per year by choosing the more fuel-efficient Tacoma.
Environmental Considerations
Fuel efficiency also has environmental implications. Vehicles that consume less fuel emit fewer greenhouse gases, contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet. The Toyota Tacoma’s superior fuel economy makes it a more environmentally friendly choice than the Tundra.
Other Considerations
While fuel economy is an important factor, it’s not the only consideration when choosing between the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma. Other factors to consider include:
- Towing and payload capacity: The Tundra offers a higher towing and payload capacity than the Tacoma.
- Off-road capabilities: Both trucks are capable off-road, but the Tundra has a more rugged design.
- Interior space: The Tundra has a larger cabin and more cargo space than the Tacoma.
- Price: The Tacoma is typically less expensive than the Tundra.
Key Points
The Toyota Tundra vs Tacoma MPG comparison reveals that the Tacoma is the clear winner in terms of fuel efficiency. Its smaller engines and lighter weight contribute to better gas mileage, resulting in significant fuel cost savings over time. If fuel economy is a top priority, the Toyota Tacoma is the more economical choice. However, if you require a truck with higher towing and payload capacity or more off-road capabilities, the Toyota Tundra may be a better fit.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: What is the average fuel economy of the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma combined?
A: The average fuel economy of the Toyota Tundra is 16 mpg combined, while the average fuel economy of the Toyota Tacoma is 21 mpg combined.
Q: Which engine option offers the best fuel economy in the Toyota Tundra?
A: The 3.5L twin-turbo V6 engine in the Toyota Tundra provides the best fuel economy, with 18 mpg city and 24 mpg highway.
Q: How can I improve the fuel economy of my Toyota Tundra or Tacoma?
A: Regular maintenance, avoiding excessive idling, and adopting fuel-efficient driving habits can help improve the fuel economy of both the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma.