While 23 MPG combined probably won’t be the main reason people buy the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L 4-cyl, it’s a number Santa Fe owners accept as the price of admission for a versatile SUV with all-weather traction and the space to haul people and gear. This Santa Fe isn’t trying to be a hyper-efficient hybrid. It’s designed for those who prioritize practicality and capability in a comfortable, family-friendly package and are willing to sacrifice some fuel economy to get the space and the added safety all-wheel drive provides.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L 4-cyl gets 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, figures that are important to consider individually. Around town, the 2.4L engine has to work a bit harder to get the heavier AWD Santa Fe moving from a standstill, resulting in fuel efficiency at the lower end of its range. On the open road, the eight-speed automatic transmission allows the engine to cruise comfortably at lower RPMs, which helps it achieve respectable highway fuel economy.

A driver who mainly drives highway miles will likely see numbers closer to that 27 MPG rating, while someone mainly in city traffic will probably be closer to 21 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L 4-cyl at $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is just an estimate. Fuel prices change and individual driving habits greatly affect fuel consumption.

Someone who drives more aggressively or lives in an area with consistently higher fuel costs should expect to exceed that $1,900 figure. Also, drivers who live in regions where winter blend gasoline is used will experience fuel economies below the EPA estimates.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy often varies. Weather conditions, driving style, and terrain will all affect your actual mileage. Drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds can often match or even exceed the EPA estimates.

In contrast, those who favor quicker acceleration, make frequent short trips in cold weather, or regularly carry heavy loads will likely see lower numbers than the EPA estimates. Understanding your driving habits is key to accurately predicting your fuel costs. Regular maintenance, like tire inflation and oil changes, also plays a critical role in maintaining optimal fuel efficiency for your Santa Fe over time.

How it compares

In the crowded field of mid-size SUVs, the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L’s fuel economy is about average. The Toyota RAV4, especially the hybrid models, gets much better fuel economy, with the RAV4 Hybrid earning an EPA-estimated 40 MPG combined. The Honda CR-V, in its standard front-wheel-drive configuration, also offers better efficiency at around 28 MPG combined.

Compared to other AWD competitors in the same segment, the Santa Fe is similar to the Nissan Rogue, which achieves 28 MPG combined, but the Jeep Cherokee equipped with its V6 engine, gets less at an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. For buyers who prioritize fuel efficiency above all else, the RAV4 Hybrid or CR-V are good options. The Santa Fe has a spacious interior, a comfortable ride, and good value.

You can find all Hyundai fuel economy data on our dedicated make page, or explore SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Anticipate traffic flow to avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration. Maintaining a steady speed is important for maximizing your Santa Fe’s fuel economy, especially on the highway. The Santa Fe’s eight-speed transmission is programmed for efficiency, so let it do its job by avoiding aggressive throttle inputs.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during changes in temperature.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in your Santa Fe. Extra cargo adds strain on the engine, decreasing fuel efficiency. Clear out any items you don’t need to haul around on a daily basis. Even seemingly small things like golf clubs or rarely used tools can add up and impact your MPG.

Schedule regular maintenance for your Santa Fe, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, optimizing fuel consumption. Keep the engine tuned up, and it will reciprocate by providing the best fuel economy possible.