The Truth About Tacoma Gas Mileage

It’s an old joke: “I bought a Tacoma for the miles per gallon,” said no one ever.

While the Tacoma is legendary for reliability, it is not efficient. The blocky aerodynamics and old-school naturally aspirated V6 engine mean you will be visiting the pump often.

Official vs. Real World Numbers

Toyota rates the 3.5L V6 4x4 at roughly 18 City / 22 Highway.

In the real world, a stock truck driven conservatively can hit these numbers. However, the moment you modify the truck (which most of us do), those numbers plummet.

Why Your MPG Sucks (The “Overland” Penalty)

Every mod you add is a penalty to your fuel tank.

1. Tires: Switching from stock tires (29 lbs) to E-Load Mud Terrains (55 lbs) adds massive rotational mass. Expect a loss of 2-3 MPG instantly.
2. Lift Kits: Raising the truck increases air resistance under the vehicle. Loss of 1-2 MPG.
3. Roof Racks / Tents: A Roof Top Tent is like driving with a brick on your roof. It kills aerodynamics. Loss of 2-4 MPG at highway speeds.
4. Armor: Steel bumpers and skid plates add hundreds of pounds.

A fully rigged “Overland” Tacoma on 33s with a tent often averages 12-14 MPG.

How to Improve (or Maintain) Your MPG

If you want to save money:

1. Re-Gear: If you run 33” or 35” tires, re-gearing to 5.29s returns the engine to its efficient powerband. You typically GAIN mileage back after re-gearing a modified truck.
2. Skinny Tires: Remember the “Pizza Cutters” (255/85R16)? They have less rolling resistance than wide 285s.
3. Slow Down: The Tacoma is a brick. Air resistance increases exponentially with speed. Driving at 65 mph vs 75 mph makes a huge difference.

Conclusion

If MPG is your primary concern, keep the truck stock. If you want a beastly off-road rig, accept that 15 MPG is the cost of entry for the fun you’re going to have.