20 MPG combined. That’s what owners of the 2020 Kia Stinger RWD with the 3.3L twin-turbo V6 get. It’s not going to win any awards for less gas, but that’s likely not a major concern for the person buying this car. The Stinger 3.3T is bought for its blend of performance, style, and relative value; a combination rarely found in more expensive German rivals.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2020 Kia Stinger RWD 3.3L are 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine’s thirst under stop-and-go conditions; the turbochargers can frequently spool up, demanding more fuel. The highway number is more acceptable, the Stinger’s relatively efficient eight-speed automatic transmission helps it cruise comfortably at higher speeds. Remember that this is a performance-oriented machine, though; spirited driving, which is almost unavoidable in a car this fun, will drag those numbers downwards significantly.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Kia Stinger RWD 3.3L is $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you purchase, and fluctuations in gas prices. If you’re consistently using the Stinger’s impressive acceleration, expect to exceed that $2,900 figure.

A driver with a longer commute and a lighter foot might get closer to the EPA estimate. It’s always worth checking current gas prices in your area to determine a more realistic projection for your specific situation.

Real-world expectations

Forget the window sticker after the first week of ownership. Real-world MPG for the Stinger 3.3T often hovers in the high teens. Aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and the temptation to exploit the car’s performance will lower fuel economy. This car begs to be driven hard, and few owners can resist. Online forums and driver communities confirm this, with many reporting averages between 17 and 22 MPG, depending on their driving style and environment. The allure of the twin-turbo V6 makes efficiency less important.

How it compares

Consider its competitors when assessing the Stinger’s fuel economy. A comparable BMW 440i Gran Coupe with xDrive achieves around 25 MPG combined, a noticeable advantage. The Audi S5 Sportback, another direct rival, delivers similar numbers, typically around 24 MPG combined. Both alternatives cost more than the Stinger. The Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 offers comparable power, but lands around 22 MPG combined.

The Stinger buyer accepts a slight MPG penalty in exchange for a unique blend of practicality and performance at a more accessible price point. Comparing STINGER MPG across all years illustrates that this generation’s V6 model has a pretty consistent fuel consumption profile.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Resist the urge to constantly put the accelerator pedal to the floor. The twin-turbo V6 is addictive, but restraint will significantly improve your fuel economy. Smooth, gradual acceleration is far more efficient than aggressive bursts of speed followed by hard braking.

Use the Stinger’s drive modes intelligently. The “Eco” mode remaps the throttle response and shift patterns to prioritize fuel efficiency. It may dull the driving experience somewhat, but it’s a useful tool for highway cruising or navigating congested city streets. Consider it a way to save fuel for later, more spirited drives.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain the recommended levels as specified on the door jamb sticker. This simple act can make a measurable difference over time.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, it’s generally more efficient to turn off the engine. Modern cars, including the Stinger, handle frequent restarts without excessive wear and tear.

Combine trips when possible. Short trips with a cold engine are particularly inefficient. Combining multiple errands into a single journey allows the engine to reach its optimal operating temperature, improving fuel economy across the board. Plan your route strategically to minimize backtracking and unnecessary miles.