The 2019 Hyundai Elantra SE gets 33 MPG combined. It’s precisely why practical-minded buyers choose this competent compact sedan. It’s not trying to be a sports car, a luxury cruiser, or an off-road warrior. It’s a cost-effective tool designed to deliver dependable transportation without draining your bank account, and that fuel economy figure is central to its mission.

City and highway performance

The Elantra SE achieves 29 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. These numbers, achieved by the 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and its smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission (S6), reflect the vehicle’s design. The engine isn’t overworked or particularly powerful, preferring a relaxed pace. The transmission is geared for efficiency, prioritizing lower RPMs on the open road. The result is a car perfectly suited for everyday commutes and long highway journeys where fuel savings matter most.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra SE 2.0L is $1,350. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Elantra’s fuel costs against other vehicles, allowing budget-conscious buyers to factor this critical expense into their overall ownership costs. This makes the Elantra SE a truly cheap vehicle to fill up, even compared to other members of the ELANTRA MPG across all years.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a solid baseline, real-world fuel economy inevitably varies based on driving habits, terrain, and climate. A driver who accelerates and brakes frequently in stop-and-go traffic will likely see lower numbers than someone who maintains a steady speed on the highway. Driving in hilly areas or extreme temperatures can affect fuel consumption. However, most owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates, highlighting the Elantra’s consistent fuel efficiency in typical driving conditions.

How it compares

The Elantra SE’s fuel economy positions it competitively within the compact sedan segment. For comparison, the 2019 Toyota Corolla LE, another highly popular option, gets an EPA-estimated 32 MPG combined. The Honda Civic LX, a perennial rival, achieves around 33 MPG combined in its equivalent trim with the base engine and automatic transmission. While these differences may seem marginal, they can add up over time, influencing the long-term cost of ownership. The Nissan Sentra S offers similar fuel economy at 32 MPG combined; finding the best offers across the board might be in your best interest when finding such similar fuel efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in the Elantra SE. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and hard stops, which can significantly reduce MPG. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible, especially on the highway.

Proper tire inflation plays an important role in fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended levels listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, reducing MPG.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Remove any items you don’t need, as extra weight increases the engine’s workload and lowers fuel economy. A lighter car is a more efficient car.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. This applies especially when waiting in parking lots or drive-throughs.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. This helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and braking. Plus, cruise control reduces driver fatigue on long journeys.

Ultimately, the 2019 Hyundai Elantra SE provides reliable and economical transportation. Potential buyers who value fuel efficiency should also consider looking at all Hyundai fuel economy data for other, similar comparisons. This is a car built to deliver the fuel economy its buyers expect.