Best Driving Techniques to Improve Toyota Hilux Fuel Economy

Yes, I’ve definitely made a conscious effort to adopt specific driving habits to improve fuel efficiency in my Hilux. Here are a few things I’ve found that help:

Maintaining Steady Speed: One of the most effective habits I’ve adopted is keeping a steady speed. Whether I’m on the highway o r in city traffic, I try to avoid fluctuating speeds, as sudden acceleration o r braking uses more fuel. If I’m on long stretches of road, I make sure to anticipate traffic flow ahead, which allows me to coast and brake more gradually.

Avoiding Aggressive Acceleration: Rapid acceleration can eat up fuel quickly, especially in a vehicle like the Hilux, which is built for power. I try to accelerate smoothly and gradually, especially when starting from a stop. Even when overtaking, I focus on making my acceleration as smooth as possible to avoid wasting fuel.

Cruise Control: Cruise control has become one of my best tools for maintaining fuel efficiency, particularly on highways o r long, straight roads. It helps maintain a consistent speed, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also minimizes unnecessary speed fluctuations. I use it when I’m on highways o r less congested roads, and it’s been a big help in keeping my fuel usage more predictable.

Using Higher Gears: On the highway, I try to shift to higher gears as soon as possible. Driving in a lower gear at higher speeds can waste fuel, so once I’m at cruising speed, I aim to stay in higher gears to keep the engine from revving too high.

Anticipating Stops: I try to anticipate red lights o r slowdowns so I can ease off the accelerator instead of suddenly slamming on the brakes. Coasting to a stop when possible uses less fuel compared to rapid deceleration and then having to accelerate again.

Turn Off the Engine When Idle: If I’m stuck in traffic o r waiting for a long time like at a toll o r train crossing, I’ll turn off the engine. Idling can waste quite a bit of fuel, especially if it’s for more than a minute o r two.

Keep the Load Light and Balanced: As mentioned earlier, I avoid carrying excessive weight o r unnecessary cargo in the bed o r on the roof. Even small things like roof racks o r carrying an extra load can increase drag and fuel consumption.

I’ve noticed a measurable difference when I adopt these habits. The Hilux definitely performs better in terms of mileage, and I’ve been able to optimize fuel efficiency without sacrificing too much convenience o r power. Plus, I don’t have to make drastic changes to my driving style—it’s about small adjustments that add up over time.

Have you noticed any driving habits that have worked for you, o r do you have any tips that help with fuel economy in your Hilux?