The efficiency with which a 2002 Toyota Tacoma consumes fuel is a critical factor for owners and prospective buyers. This characteristic, typically measured in miles per gallon (MPG), reflects the distance the vehicle can travel on a single gallon of gasoline. As an example, a higher MPG figure indicates greater fuel economy and lower running costs.
Understanding this aspect of vehicle performance offers several advantages. It enables informed budgeting for fuel expenses, facilitates comparisons with other vehicles, and contributes to environmentally conscious driving habits. During the early 2000s, this metric was particularly relevant as fuel prices experienced significant fluctuations, influencing consumer purchasing decisions.