The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe FWD with the 2.4L engine gets 25 MPG combined. This is a respectable number that puts it in the middle of its class as a mid-size, five-passenger SUV. While it won’t set any fuel economy records, it also won’t be excessively expensive to fuel. This particular Santa Fe configuration suits buyers who value affordability, space, and reliability more than high performance or maximum fuel efficiency. These are often families, commuters, and empty-nesters who want a practical vehicle that rides comfortably and is reasonably priced.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2019 Santa Fe 2.4L FWD are 22 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The lower city MPG reflects the frequent stops and starts of urban driving, where the engine idles and accelerates more. The 2.4L engine, while sufficient, has to work harder to accelerate the Santa Fe from a standstill, especially with passengers or cargo. On the other hand, the near 30 MPG highway number shows the engine’s efficiency at constant speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps here, letting the engine cruise at relatively low RPMs, which reduces fuel consumption on long highway drives. Errands around town will affect your fuel costs more than longer road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4L FWD at $1,750. This is calculated using 15,000 miles driven per year and the EPA’s assumed national average fuel price. This is an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may change based on your driving habits, the gas you use, and local gas prices. However, this $1,750 provides a baseline for budgeting and comparing ownership costs with other vehicles. This estimation is based on the car’s regular unleaded fuel compatibility.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world mileage often varies. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, heavy loads, and constant air conditioning use are known to decrease gas mileage. Drivers who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic, and keep their tires properly inflated can probably get numbers close to the EPA’s estimates. If you often drive in heavy traffic or live in a hilly area, expect your average fuel economy to be a little lower than the combined 25 MPG. If you mostly drive on the highway, you might see numbers close to, or even a little above, the 29 MPG highway rating.

How it compares

The 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4L FWD is in a competitive segment. The Honda CR-V EX with its 1.5L turbo engine gets 28 MPG combined, offering slightly better fuel economy. The Toyota RAV4 LE, another popular option, also gets a combined rating of 28 MPG. The Nissan Rogue S gets 29 MPG combined. Some buyers will accept the Santa Fe FWD’s slightly lower fuel economy for its larger size and interior space compared to some competitors. For those who want the best fuel economy, a hybrid SUV, such as the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (40 MPG combined) or the Honda CR-V Hybrid (40 MPG combined), would be a better choice, but they offer very different driving experiences. You can explore all Hyundai fuel economy data to get a broader sense of their lineup, or dive deeper into SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and braking significantly affect fuel economy. The 2.4L engine performs best when it isn’t forced to accelerate at high RPM often. Smooth, gradual acceleration, especially from a stop, reduces the engine’s workload and minimizes fuel consumption.

Tire pressure is critical. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. You can find this information on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and restarting uses less fuel than idling for a long time. The 2.4L Santa Fe doesn’t have automatic engine stop/start, so the driver needs to handle this.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove any unnecessary items from the roof rack or cargo carrier because they increase wind resistance, decreasing fuel economy. Maintain a moderate highway speed to minimize drag, which improves fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe’s large front is less aerodynamic than a sedan, so any effort to reduce drag can give noticeable results.