Fuel economy showdown: tacoma vs 4runner – which truck reigns supreme?
What To Know
- 5-liter V6 and 4WD gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the 4Runner with the same engine and 4WD delivers 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.
- 7-liter engine and 2WD achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the crew cab with the same powertrain gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
- 7-liter inline-four engine in the Tacoma offers the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the 2WD model.
Fuel economy is a crucial consideration for any vehicle purchase, especially in today’s era of rising gas prices. When comparing two popular Toyota pickups, the Tacoma and 4Runner, it’s essential to understand their respective fuel consumption ratings. This blog post will delve into the Toyota Tacoma vs. 4Runner fuel economy comparison, providing insights into their performance under different driving conditions and configurations.
City Fuel Economy
In the city, where stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration occur, the Tacoma and 4Runner both offer decent fuel economy. The Tacoma with a 3.5-liter V6 engine and rear-wheel drive (2WD) achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city, while the 4Runner with the same engine and 2WD delivers 18 mpg city. The difference is marginal, with the Tacoma having a slight edge due to its smaller size and lighter weight.
Highway Fuel Economy
On the highway, where vehicles can maintain a steady speed for longer periods, the Tacoma and 4Runner exhibit improved fuel economy. The Tacoma with the 3.5-liter V6 and 2WD gets an EPA-estimated 25 mpg highway, while the 4Runner with the same powertrain and 2WD achieves 22 mpg highway. The Tacoma’s superior aerodynamics and lower curb weight contribute to its better highway fuel economy.
Fuel Economy with Four-Wheel Drive (4WD)
When equipped with four-wheel drive (4WD), both the Tacoma and 4Runner experience a slight decrease in fuel economy. The Tacoma with a 3.5-liter V6 and 4WD gets an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city and 23 mpg highway, while the 4Runner with the same engine and 4WD delivers 17 mpg city and 20 mpg highway. The additional weight and drivetrain components of the 4WD system contribute to the lower fuel economy.
Fuel Economy with Different Engine Options
The Tacoma and 4Runner offer a range of engine options that impact their fuel economy. For the Tacoma, the base 2.7-liter inline-four engine provides the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the 2WD model. The 4Runner, on the other hand, comes standard with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, which delivers an EPA-estimated 17 mpg city and 21 mpg highway for the 2WD model.
Fuel Economy with Different Cab Configurations
The Tacoma and 4Runner are available in various cab configurations, including regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab. The cab configuration can influence fuel economy due to differences in weight and aerodynamics. For instance, the Tacoma regular cab with a 2.7-liter engine and 2WD achieves an EPA-estimated 24 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, while the crew cab with the same powertrain gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.
Final Note
The Toyota Tacoma and 4Runner offer comparable fuel economy ratings, with the Tacoma having a slight edge in most scenarios. The specific fuel economy of each vehicle will vary depending on factors such as engine choice, drivetrain configuration, and cab style. Ultimately, the best way to determine which pickup offers the best fuel economy for your needs is to consider your driving habits and preferences.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Which Toyota pickup gets better fuel economy, the Tacoma or the 4Runner?
A: The Tacoma generally offers slightly better fuel economy than the 4Runner, especially in city driving and with smaller engine options.
Q: How does the four-wheel drive system affect fuel economy?
A: Engaging the four-wheel drive system typically reduces fuel economy by a few mpg due to the additional weight and drivetrain components.
Q: What is the most fuel-efficient engine option for the Tacoma?
A: The 2.7-liter inline-four engine in the Tacoma offers the best fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for the 2WD model.
Q: Does the cab configuration impact fuel economy?
A: Yes, the cab configuration can affect fuel economy due to differences in weight and aerodynamics. Regular cab models typically offer better fuel economy than extended cab or crew cab configurations.
Q: How can I improve the fuel economy of my Toyota pickup?
A: Regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, and avoiding excessive idling can help improve fuel economy. Additionally, choosing smaller engine options and lighter cab configurations can also contribute to better fuel efficiency.