The 2019 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L’s 27 MPG combined fuel economy is reasonable in the subcompact SUV segment, though not class-leading. It’s not for hypermilers, but for those needing all-weather traction who appreciate the Kona’s distinctive styling and surprisingly capable turbocharged engine. Kona buyers prioritize practicality and affordability, deeming the gas mileage an acceptable trade for its features and fun driving.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates for the 2019 Kona AWD 1.6L are 26 MPG city and 29 MPG highway. The slightly lower city MPG is typical for smaller turbocharged engines, which can be more sensitive to stop-and-go driving. The Kona’s eagerness to accelerate from a standstill, something many owners enjoy, also impacts urban fuel consumption. On the open road, the Kona settles into a more efficient cruising speed, making the 29 MPG highway figure relatively achievable, if you avoid using the turbo’s power too much.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L at $1,600, based on 15,000 miles per year at national average fuel prices. This is only an estimate, as actual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, road types, and local gasoline prices. Aggressive driving, extended idling, and premium fuel (not required) will increase the annual cost. Careful driving will save you money.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates offer a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Weather conditions (cold weather reduces efficiency), tire pressure, and cargo weight influence mileage. Kona drivers mostly on city streets with a heavy foot might see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range. However, those who maintain their vehicle, drive mostly on the highway, and accelerate and brake smoothly could exceed the EPA estimates. Check out the KONA MPG across all years to see what other drivers report for their Kona models.

How it compares

The 2019 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L is in the middle of its class for fuel economy. The Mazda CX-3 AWD achieves a 29 MPG combined rating, making it slightly more efficient. The Nissan Kicks, front-wheel-drive only, gets 33 MPG combined, but lacks the Kona’s available all-wheel drive and turbocharged power. The Jeep Renegade 4×4, another AWD competitor, typically achieves around 24 MPG combined, making the Kona better in fuel savings. Because Kona buyers are savvy shoppers, they seek the best balance of features, capability, and cost, and fuel economy matters. For all Hyundai fuel economy data, you can explore the broader Hyundai lineup.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Kona’s turbocharged engine responds well to smooth and predictable throttle inputs. Avoid sudden acceleration and anticipate traffic to minimize hard braking. A light foot improves gas mileage.

Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure (found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb). Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Check tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the engine’s workload and decreases gas mileage. Remove items not regularly needed, especially heavy objects.

The Kona’s automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently. Avoid manual shift mode unless necessary, as the transmission’s computer generally makes better shift decisions for fuel economy than most drivers.