24 MPG combined is a perfectly acceptable number for the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L, but it’s not going to win any fuel economy awards. This configuration is for buyers who want space, all-weather traction, and value more than top efficiency. It’s a practical choice for families in regions where snow is common, and the naturally aspirated engine provides predictable power that’s easy to manage, even if it’s not particularly thrilling.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway for the 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD with the 2.4L four-cylinder engine. The city figure reflects the engine’s workload in stop-and-go traffic, which is common for suburban families running errands. The highway number, while decent, shows that the Santa Fe’s aerodynamic profile and full-time all-wheel-drive system slightly reduce fuel consumption at higher speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range, but it can only do so much with an SUV designed more for utility than low-drag aerodynamics. Drivers who drive mostly on the open road should see numbers closer to the EPA highway estimate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for this Santa Fe configuration at $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Individual fuel costs will vary depending on local fuel prices and driving habits, but $1,800 provides a standardized benchmark for comparison. For buyers on a budget, this figure is a key data point to consider against other SUVs of similar size.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy will fluctuate based on several factors. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and using accessories like air conditioning, will all decrease fuel efficiency. Conversely, smooth driving habits, regular maintenance, and avoiding unnecessary cargo can help drivers achieve numbers closer to, or even slightly better than, the EPA estimates. The 2.4L engine is reliable, but you’ll need to drive carefully if you want to get the most miles per gallon.

How it compares

The 2020 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 2.4L holds its own against its competitors but doesn’t lead the pack. For example, the Honda CR-V AWD with its 1.5L turbo engine achieves a combined EPA rating of 29 MPG, which makes the CR-V a notably more fuel-efficient choice. However, some buyers might prefer the Santa Fe’s larger size and potentially more compliant ride. The Toyota RAV4 AWD, another popular option, returns around 28 MPG combined, a modest improvement over the Santa Fe. Stepping up to the Santa Fe’s own 2.0L turbocharged engine delivers more power but typically results in slightly lower fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined. If fuel efficiency is critical, exploring alternatives like the CR-V or RAV4 makes sense, but for those prioritizing size, features, and price, the Santa Fe offers a good selection of features. For all Hyundai fuel economy data, see the company website. You can also see SANTA MPG across all years to determine which model suits your needs better.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to getting better fuel economy with the 2.4L engine. Avoid pressing hard on the accelerator, especially from a standstill. Instead, gradually increase speed; the engine doesn’t need to work as hard, which requires less fuel. The 8-speed automatic finds the right gear, so trust it to do its job.

Tire pressure is often overlooked, but properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and improve fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressures regularly and maintain them at the recommended levels, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle. The heavier the car, the more fuel it takes to move it. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area and passenger seats. A lighter vehicle is always more efficient.

Plan your trips to avoid congested areas and peak traffic times. Stop-and-go driving reduces fuel economy. Using navigation apps to find the most efficient route can minimize wasted fuel during commutes.

Regular maintenance is crucial for good fuel economy. Ensure that the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and that all fluids are at the correct levels. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently and burns fuel more cleanly.