The 2021 Hyundai Elantra 1.6L gets 31 MPG combined. This number makes this version of the Elantra a practical and efficient transportation option, ideal for buyers seeking value. This trim isn’t focused on performance; it’s designed for affordable daily driving. Buyers accept its fuel economy because it provides reliable transportation at an affordable price.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates this Elantra gets 28 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway. The 28 MPG city rating is important. Elantra buyers often deal with heavy traffic, and will appreciate that their fuel consumption doesn’t drop significantly in stop-and-go conditions. The 36 MPG highway figure shows that the car is capable of economical long-distance travel. Many Elantra owners take road trips, so this highway MPG is especially useful for individuals who pay attention to fuel costs on long drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Hyundai Elantra 1.6L at $1,400. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles driven per year, using the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s important to understand these assumptions. Drivers who exceed 15,000 miles annually, or who drive in areas with higher fuel prices, should expect to spend more on fuel each year. Drivers with fewer miles or lower fuel costs, on the other hand, can save money. Ultimately, this $1,400 provides a standard way to compare fuel costs across different vehicles.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy will vary from EPA estimates. Driving style, traffic, and even tire pressure affect your MPG. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will lower your MPG, while smooth, consistent driving will help you match the official numbers. Proper maintenance is also key, particularly tire inflation, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Keep in mind these factors as you consider filling up your tank.

How it compares

The 2021 Toyota Corolla LE, a direct competitor, achieves 30 MPG combined. The Honda Civic LX, another popular choice, gets 33 MPG combined. The Nissan Sentra SV reaches 33 MPG combined. The Elantra’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. However, review ELANTRA MPG across all years to compare model years. These slight variations in MPG among these models can influence some buyers, especially those prioritizing fuel efficiency. This highlights the Elantra’s role as a practical, efficient vehicle, but a competitor could emphasize different qualities.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize idling time, because the 1.6L engine consumes fuel even when the car isn’t moving. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, or if you’re waiting in a line, turn off the engine to save fuel. Restarting uses less fuel than idling for a long period.

Use cruise control on the highway, because maintaining a consistent speed reduces driver fatigue and optimizes fuel consumption. The Elantra’s automatic transmission works best when it is not constantly shifting, and cruise control helps to stabilize the car’s performance.

Light acceleration and deceleration are helpful, because the Elantra 1.6L isn’t designed for rapid acceleration. Gently pressing the gas pedal reduces fuel consumption. Also, anticipate stops and decelerate gradually, letting the engine coast. Hard braking wastes energy.

Ensure proper tire inflation by checking your tire pressure regularly, and inflate them to the pressure listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce fuel efficiency. Tire pressure changes with temperature, so pay attention when temperatures change.

Consider driving without air conditioning when possible. While AC is essential for comfort in hot weather, it increases the load on the engine and reduces fuel economy. On cooler days, open the windows to save fuel. You can find all Hyundai fuel economy data to compare fuel efficiency.