Best Performance Upgrades for an I4

I want to improve the performance of my Taco without making it sound like a Honda. I didn't need the V6 and couldn't afford it anyway so I landed myself a 3rd Gen I4, 2-wheel-drive.

What would best impact the performance of my truck by way of fuel economy, horsepower and overall efficiency? If anything contradicts itself, please let me know; I do want to add accessories to my truck like side steps, grill cover, bed lights and other things I haven't given thought to yet. I know those will decrease fuel efficiency so I would like to try to keep it around 18-20 MPG city after I put everything on.

 

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/turbo-bs-thread.481844/

 

Weight reduction. Anything else worthwhile will more than make up the cost difference for a v6 truck.

 

At what cost is the big question.

For the driveway amateur wrench looking for magazine grade bolt on's that create magic, nothing.

For more than the cost of what the v6 would have been, a lot of work, and loss of warranty, a couple of things.

You have a fine truck. Enjoy it as it is, and take good care of it.

PS, the first thing lots of folks do that hurts MPG is add on funky wheels and more tire than they'll ever use, along with a looker lift. (as in for looks, not function). Avoid being that guy, especially in a 2wd, and you'll be fine.