2.7 Liter 4x4 First impressions, gas mileage.

Ok so I know this has somewhat been discussed. I just bought a new 2007 Tacoma Regular cab 4x4 2.7 manual. So I have 1500 miles on it and I've been getting about 22mpg average on a tank with some city and some highway. Which i'm pretty happy with however i'm thinking about changing a few things and seeing if I can do better.
Has anyone with the 2.7 liter 4x4 put a different muffler or intake on it? I'm thinking about putting a K&N cold air intake kit on it along with a borla XR-1 muffler with the stock piping.
How about putting synthetic oil in the rear differential? Anyone noticed a difference there?
So far I really like the truck, I have a 1993 mercury capri that weighs 2200lbs and has 300hp and I was afraid I was just going to drive myself crazy with how slow it is, but its really not that bad. Its definately not a 12 second car but it will move in traffic.
Ok anyone have any opinions on what to get for a front bumper/grill guard? I want something I can hook a winch up to and I'd rather not spend $800 on it any suggestions? I'm thinking about getting out the TIG and making something myself.

 

http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm

I came across some solid info from this site. check it out. It explains the difference in which gas mileage is and should be rated.

 

We have the same truck. Best I have seen is 23 mpg which was heavy freeway. (San Diego to Santa Barbara)

Worst around town has been over 19.
Not too bad considering it is a 4x4.
Pretty happy with it.

Of course if they introduced a diesel I would jump on it and never look back.

 

AMEN!!!

 

Hey guys this is my first post on here. I have an '06 2.7 4x4 access cab which has really surprised me on gas mileage. I now have 32,000 miles on the truck and the gas mileage seems to just get better and better. My last 5-10 tanks have avg. 24 miles per gallon with my last tank getting 24.5. Not bad at all for a stock 4x4.

 

Welcome to TW!

Man, I hope my PreRunner's mileage keeps getting better. that would be awesome.

 

That's very impressive. I am getting about 17-18 mpg, but I have a lead foot.

 

You also have a V6

 

Really

 

While the majority of my driving is interstate with the cruise set around 75 or so I don't think I have ever had a tank less than 21.5 - 22 mpg when driving around town.

 

i believe so

 

I am just busting your chops man. Its all good. I got 15-16 mpg in my old 98 3RZ (4-banger)4x4 taco so 24mpg is awesome.

 

Woot! First road trip....It has 6k miles on it now...I went to austin from North dallas and back...I averaged 25.3 mpg!! I was averaging around 70-75mph.
I'm very impressed.