When it comes to choosing a full-size pickup truck, fuel economy is often a key consideration—especially for drivers looking to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Two of the most popular trucks in this category are the Ford F-150 and the Toyota Tundra. While both vehicles are celebrated for their performance, capability, and durability, potential buyers are increasingly asking: which has better gas mileage, F-150 or Tundra?
In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the fuel efficiency of each model, dive into engine options, and break down how design, driving style, and usage factors can affect real-world performance. Whether you’re hauling heavy loads, commuting daily, or planning cross-country road trips, this guide will help you understand which truck offers the best value at the gas pump.
Understanding the Competition: F-150 and Tundra Overview
The Ford F-150 has held its position as the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for over 40 years, and for good reason. It’s been at the forefront of innovation in the pickup category, offering a diverse lineup that includes everything from workhorse models to luxurious trims like the Platinum and Lariat.
The Toyota Tundra, while less dominant in sales than the F-150, is a perennial favorite among loyal Toyota drivers. Known for long-term reliability and strong resale value, the Tundra has undergone major redesigns in recent years—particularly the introduction of a twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain—bringing it closer to contemporary standards in terms of performance and fuel economy.
Before diving into gas mileage details, it’s important to note that both trucks come with a range of engines—some purely gasoline-powered, others hybrid-assisted—which can drastically change their fuel efficiency. Let’s compare apples to apples while also considering a broader context.
Official EPA Ratings and Real-World Fuel Economy
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides official fuel economy ratings in miles per gallon (MPG) for all vehicles. These figures are determined under controlled test conditions and are used across the industry for comparison. However, the real-world fuel efficiency may vary based on a range of factors.
We’ll look at the 2023 and 2024 model years for both pickups, as these are the most relevant for prospective buyers today.
Ford F-150 Fuel Economy (2023–2024)
Ford has made impressive strides in optimizing fuel economy for the F-150. Thanks to lightweight aluminum construction introduced in 2015, combined with turbocharged EcoBoost engines and hybrid options, the F-150 offers some of the best MPG figures in its class.
Here are the EPA fuel economy figures for the 2024 Ford F-150, by engine:
| Engine | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.3L V6 | RWD | 20 | 24 | 22 |
| 2.7L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 22 | 29 | 25 |
| 3.5L EcoBoost V6 | RWD | 20 | 26 | 22 |
| 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel V6 | RWD | 23 | 30 | 26 |
| 3.5L EcoBoost Hybrid (PowerBoost) | RWD | 26 | 24 | 25 |
Note: Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) figures shown for comparison. Four-Wheel Drive (4WD) models see a reduction of around 1–2 MPG.
Toyota Tundra Fuel Economy (2023–2024)
The 2024 Toyota Tundra comes with two main engine options: a standard 3.5L twin-turbo V6 gas engine and a hybrid version (i-FORCE MAX), which adds a 48-volt electric motor for improved low-end torque and fuel efficiency.
Here are the EPA-estimated MPGs for the 2024 Toyota Tundra:
| Engine | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 (Gasoline) | RWD | 18 | 23 | 20 |
| 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6 + Electric (Hybrid – i-FORCE MAX) | RWD | 19 | 22 | 20 |
While the Tundra’s hybrid option does not deliver a significant improvement in highway fuel economy, it does provide better low-end responsiveness, which can help improve urban driving efficiency.
Engine Technologies That Influence Gas Mileage
Modern trucks are more efficient than ever thanks to advancements in engine design, aerodynamics, materials, and driver assistance. Let’s explore the core innovations behind both trucks that affect gas mileage.
F-150 Powertrains and Efficiency Enhancements
Ford Engine Options That Maximize MPG:
- 2.7L EcoBoost V6: Balances strong towing with impressive city and highway MPG.
- 3.0L Power Stroke Diesel V6: Delivers excellent highway MPG due to diesel’s high efficiency and turbocharging.
- 3.5L EcoBoost Hybrid (PowerBoost): Offers the **best overall fuel economy** in the F-150 lineup at 25 MPG combined, especially in light-duty commuter use.
Ford has also integrated auto stop-start systems, torque vectoring, and cylinder deactivation in non-hybrid models to reduce idle fuel consumption and optimize engine performance based on demand.
In addition, the aluminum body design reduces the F-150’s overall weight by over 700 pounds, a major factor in improved fuel efficiency compared to heavier steel-bodied trucks.
Tundra Powertrains and Hybrid Integration
The Tundra’s i-FORCE MAX powertrain pairs a twin-turbo V6 gas engine with a small electric motor. While the motor doesn’t act as a full hybrid system—in the way that Honda or Tesla hybrids do—it provides a noticeable power boost at low RPM to help reduce fuel waste during acceleration.
However, compared to the F-150 PowerBoost hybrid, the Tundra’s hybrid system doesn’t offer regenerative braking or significant electric-only driving capability, which are critical for better overall fuel economy.
Toyota Tundra engines include:
- 3.5L Twin-Turbo V6: Standard engine with sufficient fuel economy for a full-size pickup but trails Ford’s options.
- 3.5L V6 + Hybrid Assist (i-FORCE MAX): Adds some efficiency gains in stop-and-go driving but doesn’t match Ford’s hybrid MPG.
Toyota has leaned heavily into reliability and smooth power delivery rather than chasing segment-leading MPG figures.
Which Truck Has Better Gas Mileage Overall?
Let’s break down the fuel economy competition between F-150 and Tundra across engine types and use cases.
Non-Hybrid, Gasoline Engines
| Metric | Ford F-150 2.7L EcoBoost | Toyota Tundra 3.5L Twin-Turbo |
|————————|————————–|—————————–|
| City MPG | 22 | 18 |
| Highway MPG | 29 | 23 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 20 |
| Fuel Type | Premium recommended | Regular |
In the gasoline-only segment, the 2.7L EcoBoost F-150 clearly outperforms the Tundra in all major fuel economy categories. Even at highway speeds, the F-150 achieves almost 10% better efficiency. While the EcoBoost recommends premium fuel consumption, the gains in performance and economy often justify the use of higher octane in Ford’s engine lineup.
Hybrid Powertrains
| Metric | Ford F-150 PowerBoost | Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX |
|————————-|————————|—————————|
| City MPG | 26 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 22 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 20 |
| Electric Contribution | Regenerative Braking, electric driving | Mild hybrid boost only |
Here, Ford’s hybrid system significantly outperforms Toyota’s. The F-150 PowerBoost model adds both regenerative braking and a full hybrid motor system, which allows for modest electric-only driving and greater energy recapture. The Tundra’s i-FORCE MAX, in contrast, is what is known as a mild hybrid—its electric motor supports acceleration but doesn’t reduce engine usage outright.
Key Takeaways: Fuel Economy Winner
In head-to-head comparisons:
- The **Ford F-150 delivers significantly better fuel economy** than the Toyota Tundra across most engine configurations.
- The hybrid **F-150 PowerBoost averages 25 MPG** in combined driving—12.5% better than the Tundra hybrid model.
- Even when comparing regular gasoline engines, the **F-150’s 2.7L EcoBoost (30 MPG hwy)** eclipses the Tundra’s best (23 MPGH).
In short, Ford has consistently optimized for fuel economy, especially with lighter materials and superior hybrid technology.
In-Depth Comparison by Trim and Configuration
While the base models and EPA ratings offer valuable data, fuel efficiency can shift based on trim levels, cab size, and towing configurations. Here’s a breakdown of how the trucks perform when considering these real-life features.
Difference Between 2WD and 4WD
Most buyers in colder climates or for off-road use opt for four-wheel drive. 4WD adds weight and requires power to drive front axles, typically lowering fuel economy by 1–2 MPG across the board.
| Model | Configuration | F-150 Combined MPG | Tundra Combined MPG |
|———————|———————|———————|———————–|
| Rear-Wheel Drive | Standard Cab | 25 | 20 |
| Four-Wheel Drive | Supercab | 23 | 18 |
| Crew Cab + 4WD | Hybrid Tech | 24 | 19 |
Even when factoring in different configurations, the trend holds: Ford maintains consistently better mpg than Toyota.
Cab Size, Bed Length, and Aerodynamics
Full-size trucks come in a variety of cab options, which can impact aerodynamics and fuel use:
- Regular (Standard) Cab: Offers the least weight and most streamlined design.
- SuperCab / Extended Cab: Adds rear seating but also weight; slight impact on highway efficiency.
- Crew Cab: Largest cab option, often with a full rear bench and longer bed. Greatest weight.
Crew Cab versions drop both models by about 1 MPG across the board due to the added volume they must push through the air.
Additionally, Ford has improved aerodynamics design with features like:
- Automatic air shutters that open and close based on speed and cooling needs.
- Built-in tailgate ramps that improve airflow at highway speeds.
These small but cumulative features help EcoBoost hybrids in particular achieve higher MPGs despite their size.
Factors Affecting Fuel Economy in Real-World Scenarios
Even the best EPA rating won’t perfectly match real-world fuel efficiency. There are a number of external and behavioral factors that affect how much gasoline your truck actually uses.
Driving Conditions and Terrain
- Highway vs. city driving dramatically affects fuel consumption.
- Trucks routinely used in mountainous or rocky terrain will see lower mpg.
- Aerodynamic drag increases in windy or hilly areas.
Towing and Payload
Both trucks have robust towing capacities, but when pulling significant weight (e.g., campers, boats, trailers), economy drops.
| Truck | Engine | Towing Capability | MPGH (Towing) |
|——————–|———————-|——————–|—————-|
| Ford F-150 | 3.5L EcoBoost Hybrid | ~12,000 lbs | ~18 |
| Toyota Tundra | 3.5L i-FORCE MAX | ~12,000 lbs | ~16 |
While both suffer a drop when towing, Ford retains more efficiency when hauling, thanks to superior engine tuning and hybrid efficiency.
Type of Fuel Used
- EcoBoost engines can perform better on premium fuel.
- Diesel model engines like the Power Stroke diesel engine are highly efficient.
- Tundra engines are designed for regular gasoline, which is less expensive per gallon but delivers less energy per volume.
Driver Habits and Settings
Fuel consumption can also be heavily influenced by:
- Aggressive acceleration vs. smooth driving (Ford’s hybrid supports smoother take-off)
- Use of accessories like air conditioning, trailer lights, and more
- Driving in Eco Mode or Sport Mode
Using cruise control and planning routes to minimize stop-and-go driving improves gas mileage for both trucks.
What Buyers Are Saying About Gas Mileage
Despite EPA ratings serving as a baseline, real-world fuel economy is best understood through actual owner feedback. Let’s take a look at some user-reported average fuel economy numbers, pulled from credible forums and truck owner platforms like Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book (KBB), and Reddit.
F-150 Gas Mileage Reviews
- 2.7L EcoBoost: Daily commuters regularly report 23–26 MPG highway driving.
- 3.5L EcoBoost Hybrid: Users commonly see 24–25 combined mpg.
- 3.0L Diesel: Highway performance hovers around 28 MPGH with light use.
“I drive an F-150 XLT with the 2.7L EcoBoost. On my daily commute of 45 miles round trip, I usually get 25 MPG. Even with towing my small boat a couple times a month, it’s still very efficient.”
Tundra Gas Mileage Reviews
- i-FORCE MAX: 19–20 combined mpg; some owners report slightly higher with careful driving.
- Non-hybrid Tundra: 17–18 city during the winter, improves to 21 MPGH in the summer.
“The Tundra hybrid feels snappier than the older i-FORCE engines, but mpg doesn’t really impress me compared to my friend’s F-150 with the same engine.”
Most owners agree that while the new Tundra is reliable and powerful, it doesn’t quite match the efficiency targets Ford is hitting with the latest F-150 engines.
Final Verdict: Which Has Better Gas Mileage, F-150 or Tundra?
If fuel economy is a primary consideration in your next truck purchase, the Ford F-150 is the clear winner between the two. Whether you choose a non-hybrid gasoline model like the 2.7L EcoBoost or go all in on the PowerBoost hybrid, the F-150 beats the Tundra in almost every measurable category.
Ford’s investment in lightweight bodies, robust hybrid systems, and efficient engine design gives the F-150 an edge, especially in combined and highway fuel economy. Additionally, real-world owner feedback reinforces the official EPA numbers, showcasing consistent savings and strong mpg performance across driving styles and conditions.
That said, if hybrid economy isn’t your priority—perhaps you’re after proven durability, strong resale value, or you already own a Tundra—you may find satisfaction with the Toyota Tundra. Its gas mileage isn’t poor by full-size truck standards, but it simply falls short when compared directly to the F-150’s efficiency features.
Ultimately, the 2024 Ford F-150 delivers superior fuel economy across most configurations and usage patterns, making it the top choice for gas mileage in the full-size pickup segment.
Conclusion: Looking for Fuel-Efficient Power? The F-150 Has It Handled.
What are the estimated gas mileage figures for the 2024 Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra?
The 2024 Ford F-150 offers a range of engine options that significantly affect its fuel economy. The most fuel-efficient model is the hybrid-electric PowerBoost V6, which achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. In contrast, the Toyota Tundra also offers a hybrid powertrain, known as the i-FORCE MAX, and returns approximately 23 mpg in combined driving. These numbers place the F-150 slightly ahead in overall fuel efficiency for their hybrid versions. Gas-powered variants of both trucks generally return fewer miles per gallon, with the Tundra trailing behind the more fuel-efficient configurations of the F-150.
When comparing the highest trim levels in each lineup, the Ford F-150 PowerBoost often outperforms the Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX in both city and highway settings. For instance, rear-wheel drive versions of the F-150 hybrid boast higher highway mileage numbers, while four-wheel drive models are competitive but see some reduction in fuel economy. However, these estimates can vary depending on configuration, trim level, and optional equipment such as larger wheels or off-road packages that can impact aerodynamics and weight. These factors are essential for buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency in their full-size truck purchase.
How do engine and transmission options affect gas mileage in the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra?
The Ford F-150 offers a variety of engine choices, including a 3.3L V6, 2.7L EcoBoost V6, 3.5L EcoBoost V6, 5.0L V8, and the aforementioned 3.5L PowerBoost hybrid V6. The hybrid model pairs the internal combustion engine with an electric motor and a 10-speed automatic transmission, optimizing fuel economy through electric assist and efficient gear changes. The non-hybrid engines sacrifice fuel economy for power, especially the V8, making it the least fuel-efficient option. Transmission choices, driving style, and gear-shifting patterns also play a role in overall gas mileage, with higher gear counts typically improving efficiency.
On the other hand, the Toyota Tundra comes with fewer engine options—its standard engine being the 3.4L twin-turbo i-FORCE MAX hybrid V6. This hybrid powertrain is standard across most trims and provides a balance between performance and fuel economy, with an EPA-estimated combined rating hovering around 23 mpg. The Tundra also uses a 10-speed automatic transmission designed to enhance efficiency and responsiveness. While Toyota’s hybrid system focuses on power delivery, it isn’t as finely tuned for fuel economy as Ford’s, resulting in slightly lower mpg numbers overall. Therefore, the F-150 provides a broader range of fuel economy with its varied engine lineup.
Can real-world driving conditions impact the actual gas mileage of the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra?
The real-world fuel efficiency of both the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra can significantly differ from EPA estimates due to various driving conditions. Factors such as traffic congestion, elevation changes, ambient temperature, and driving habits have an influence. For example, towing heavy loads or frequent stop-and-go traffic can lower fuel economy for both vehicles, with heavier trucks such as the Tundra experiencing a more significant drop based on some owner reports. Weather conditions like extreme heat or cold can also impact engine efficiency and reduce mpg.
Additionally, optional features and how each driver uses the truck affect real-world performance. Customers who frequently engage in off-roading or use four-wheel drive may see less efficiency compared to those using rear-wheel drive regularly. Tires—especially oversized or all-terrain versions—can increase rolling resistance and drag, lowering fuel economy. Some owners of the F-150 PowerBoost have reported better fuel economy in local driving thanks to electric assist during acceleration, which can help balance real-world inefficiencies. Therefore, while numbers are a useful baseline, daily usage and conditions play a major role in observed mpg for both trucks.
Do truck modifications influence the fuel economy of the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra?
Modifications to both the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra, such as lift kits, larger tires, and aftermarket grilles, can reduce fuel economy. These alterations affect aerodynamics and add rotational mass, which increases fuel consumption. For example, large wheels and tires improve appearance or off-road capability but force the engine to work harder, thus consuming more fuel. Similarly, bed extenders or roof racks, while useful for certain applications, create additional drag and reduce mpg—sometimes by as much as 2 to 5 mpg.
Additional modifications, such as onboard air compressors or increased weight from winches, can also impact fuel usage. Owners seeking to personalize their trucks for utility or aesthetics should be aware of how these changes affect efficiency, particularly for long commutes. Because the Ford F-150 already offers a slight advantage in mpg, especially in the hybrid configuration, modified versions of the F-150 may still maintain a better fuel economy than similarly modified Tundras, depending on the nature of the changes. Therefore, choosing wisely when modifying can help retain the fuel-savings potential of either model.
How does towing affect gas mileage for the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra?
Towing puts additional strain on any vehicle’s engine and drivetrain, which naturally decreases fuel economy. For the Ford F-150, particularly the PowerBoost hybrid version, drivers have reported a reduction in mpg when towing, yet often still achieve decent efficiency compared to non-hybrid trucks under similar loads. The hybrid system’s ability to manage energy during acceleration and braking helps recoup some losses, making it one of the more fuel-efficient tow rigs in its class. However, when towing frequently, actual fuel economy may fall into the mid-teens depending on weight and terrain.
The Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX also suffers reduced fuel economy under heavy towing loads, though the hybrid powertrain still offers a degree of efficiency in these situations. Because the Tundra’s hybrid system leans more towards torque and pulling power rather than optimizing fuel economy, real-world numbers while towing may lag slightly behind the F-150’s, even in hybrid-to-hybrid comparisons. Both trucks are designed with strong towing capacities, but with frequent trailer use, maintaining high mpg becomes harder for either model—owners should anticipate a decrease in efficiency and plan accordingly.
Which truck is better for someone prioritizing fuel economy—2024 Ford F-150 or 2024 Toyota Tundra?
For drivers placing a high priority on fuel economy, the 2024 Ford F-150 PowerBoost hybrid stands out as the better performer. Its combination of hybrid technology, electric assist during acceleration, and a 10-speed automatic transmission allows for impressive EPA ratings of up to 25 city and 26 highway mpg. This edge gives the F-150 a slight advantage over the Tundra, particularly for those who drive frequently in city environments or have shorter commutes where the electric motor can make the most impact.
While the Toyota Tundra i-FORCE MAX hybrid does deliver better fuel economy than past generations of Tundras, it falls short compared to the F-150’s hybrid variant. Tundra models typically report around 23 mpg in mixed driving—competitive, but not as favorable. However, some Tundra owners appreciate the smoother hybrid integration and unique driving feel, despite less efficiency. If maximizing mpg is the main goal and hybrid assistance is a must-have, then the Ford F-150 likely provides the better value for fuel-conscious buyers.
What future advancements in fuel economy can be expected for the F-150 and Tundra lineups?
Ford has committed to integrating more electrified powertrains across its lineup, with the F-150 Lightning already serving as its fully electric pickup option. While the 2024 PowerBoost hybrid represents a bridge between traditional gas engines and fully electric operation, further refinements and possibly new hybrid configurations may enhance fuel efficiency even more in the near future. Additionally, Ford’s involvement in EV technology translates into improved hybrid components and software that can optimize mpg by managing electric assist and regenerative braking more efficiently.
Toyota, known for its longstanding hybrid expertise, is likely to continue refining its i-FORCE MAX hybrid system in future Tundra models. Although Toyota offers a fully electric pickup overseas—the Hilux-based electric model—it has not announced a U.S.-bound electric version of the Tundra as of 2024. However, the company’s strong focus on hydrogen combustion and other alternative fuels may eventually influence Tundra powertrains. Future trims of both the F-150 and Tundra are expected to see incremental improvements in mpg through advanced transmissions, friction reduction, and smarter hybrid systems aimed at improving efficiency without compromising capability.