Fuel economy battle: tundra vs tacoma – which toyota truck reigns supreme?
What To Know
- 5L V6 engine delivers the best fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model.
- 5L V6 engine achieves 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 4WD model achieves 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
- 7L 4-cylinder engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, while the 4WD model achieves 19 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
When it comes to choosing between the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma, fuel economy is a significant consideration for many buyers. Both trucks offer impressive capabilities, but their fuel consumption ratings can vary depending on factors such as engine size, drivetrain, and driving conditions. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the fuel economy specifications of the Toyota Tundra vs. Tacoma to help you make an informed decision.
Engine Options and Fuel Efficiency
The Toyota Tundra offers a range of engine options, including a 3.5L V6, a 4.6L V8, and a 5.7L V8. The 3.5L V6 engine delivers the best fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model. The 4.6L V8 engine provides slightly lower fuel economy, with ratings of 16 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model. The 5.7L V8 engine offers the least fuel-efficient option, with EPA-estimated ratings of 14 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model.
In comparison, the Toyota Tacoma comes with two engine options: a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine and a 3.5L V6 engine. The 2.7L 4-cylinder engine is the more fuel-efficient choice, with EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model. The 3.5L V6 engine offers slightly lower fuel economy, with ratings of 18 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model.
Drivetrain Configurations and Impact on Fuel Economy
Both the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma offer a choice of drivetrain configurations, including 2WD and 4WD. 4WD systems typically reduce fuel economy due to the additional drivetrain components and increased weight. In the case of the Tundra, the 2WD models generally offer better fuel economy than the 4WD models. For example, the 2WD Tundra with the 3.5L V6 engine achieves 18 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway, while the 4WD model achieves 17 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Similarly, the Tacoma’s 2WD models offer better fuel economy than the 4WD models. The 2WD Tacoma with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine achieves 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, while the 4WD model achieves 19 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
Real-World Fuel Economy: Factors to Consider
While EPA fuel economy ratings provide a general estimate of fuel consumption, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on several factors, including:
- Driving conditions (city, highway, off-road)
- Driving habits (speed, acceleration, braking)
- Load weight
- Tire pressure
- Weather conditions
To maximize fuel economy, it’s important to practice eco-friendly driving techniques, such as avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding idling.
Fuel Tank Capacity and Driving Range
The fuel tank capacity also plays a role in fuel economy. The Toyota Tundra offers a larger fuel tank capacity than the Tacoma, with a 26.4-gallon tank for the 2WD models and a 38-gallon tank for the 4WD models. In comparison, the Tacoma has a 21.1-gallon fuel tank for the 2WD models and a 24-gallon fuel tank for the 4WD models.
The larger fuel tank capacity of the Tundra provides a longer driving range on a single fill-up. For example, a Tundra with the 3.5L V6 engine and 2WD drivetrain can travel approximately 570 miles on a single tank of gas, assuming an average fuel economy of 24 mpg. In contrast, a Tacoma with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine and 2WD drivetrain can travel approximately 440 miles on a single tank of gas, assuming an average fuel economy of 23 mpg.
Environmental Impact and Fuel Economy
In addition to reducing fuel costs, improving fuel economy also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and protecting the environment. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide, are released into the atmosphere when fossil fuels are burned. By choosing a vehicle with better fuel economy, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Summary Table: Toyota Tundra vs. Tacoma Fuel Economy
| Model | Engine | Drivetrain | Fuel Economy (City/Highway) | Fuel Tank Capacity |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Toyota Tundra 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 2WD | 18 mpg / 24 mpg | 26.4 gallons |
| Toyota Tundra 4.6L V8 | 4.6L V8 | 2WD | 16 mpg / 20 mpg | 26.4 gallons |
| Toyota Tundra 5.7L V8 | 5.7L V8 | 2WD | 14 mpg / 18 mpg | 38 gallons |
| Toyota Tacoma 2.7L 4-cylinder | 2.7L 4-cylinder | 2WD | 20 mpg / 23 mpg | 21.1 gallons |
| Toyota Tacoma 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 | 2WD | 18 mpg / 22 mpg | 21.1 gallons |
In a nutshell: Choosing the Right Truck for Your Needs
Ultimately, the best choice between the Toyota Tundra and Tacoma for fuel economy depends on your individual needs and preferences. If fuel efficiency is your top priority, the Tacoma with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine offers the best EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings. However, if you need a truck with more power and towing capacity, the Tundra with the 3.5L V6 engine provides a good balance of fuel economy and performance. By carefully considering the fuel economy specifications and real-world factors discussed in this comparison, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific requirements.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which Toyota truck has the best fuel economy?
A: The Toyota Tacoma with the 2.7L 4-cylinder engine offers the best fuel economy, with EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the 2WD model.
Q: What factors affect real-world fuel economy?
A: Real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions, driving habits, load weight, tire pressure, and weather conditions.
Q: How can I improve my fuel economy?
A: You can improve your fuel economy by practicing eco-friendly driving techniques, such as avoiding sudden acceleration and braking, maintaining a steady speed, and avoiding idling.