The 2020 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L gets 30 MPG combined, which is a respectable figure. This hatchback isn’t trying to get Prius-level efficiency; it’s made for younger drivers who want sporty style, practicality, and reasonable running costs. This buyer values eye-catching design and agile handling over squeezing every last mile from each gallon. Therefore, 30 MPG is part of the Veloster’s overall value.

City and highway performance

EPA estimates of 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway are accurate for the Veloster’s driving. The 1.6L turbocharged four-cylinder engine has enough power for confident city driving, and the automatic transmission keeps the engine in its best range, helping fuel efficiency in stop-and-go traffic. On the open road, the Veloster’s aerodynamic shape and well-tuned transmission let it cruise comfortably while getting 34 MPG. These numbers don’t apply to the R-Spec, N or N DCT trims, which have higher performance.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L is $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will change based on your driving, the fuel you use, and where you live. For example, if you mostly drive in the city or drive aggressively, you’ll probably spend more than $1,450 per year. Changes in gas prices will also change the annual cost.

Real-world expectations

The real-world MPG you get with your Veloster will depend on your driving style and environment, even though the EPA estimates are a good benchmark. Hard acceleration, frequent hard braking, and long idling will hurt fuel economy. Driving in hills or in bad weather can also reduce your MPG. You can get the EPA estimates or even exceed them by driving smoothly and minimizing idling. The VELOSTER MPG across all years shows trends on fuel ecomomy and will allow you to adjust your model choice to fit your needs.

How it compares

The Veloster is competitive in the compact hatchback segment. The Honda Civic Hatchback with the 1.5L turbo engine gets around 34 MPG combined, which is better than the Veloster, but most drivers shopping the Veloster are not considering the Civic, and are more likely looking at Jetta GLI, which nets 28 MPG combined. The Mazda3 Hatchback gets around 31 MPG combined. The Veloster’s numbers may be lower than some others, but its design and sporty character often outweigh fuel economy for its target audience looking for an affordable and fun car.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Veloster’s 1.6L turbo engine works best with smooth and consistent throttle. Avoid quick acceleration and try to keep a steady speed.

Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which are on a sticker inside the driver’s doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Properly inflated tires also improve handling and extend tire life.

Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle, such as extra cargo, sports equipment, or tools. The lighter the vehicle, the less gas it takes to move it. This is even more true for a small car like the Veloster.

Minimize idling. Turn off the engine if you’re stopped for more than a minute. Modern engines restart quickly and efficiently, and idling wastes fuel and emits pollutants. Many later-model vehicles have this function built into the vehicle.

Use cruise control on the highway, which helps keep a constant speed and can improve fuel economy on long trips. Be careful using it in hilly areas, because it may downshift to keep speed, which reduces some fuel savings. For all Hyundai fuel economy data, be sure to check all resources that address your fuel consumption questions.