20 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling contests, but for the 2021 Kia Stinger AWD with the 3.3L twin-turbo V6, it’s a calculated compromise. This isn’t a car designed for maximizing fuel efficiency above all else; it’s a sport sedan with grand touring aspirations, built for drivers who prioritize performance, style, and all-weather confidence over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. The Stinger AWD 3.3T is for those who want a distinctive, engaging driving experience without resorting to the usual German suspects. They appreciate the Kia’s value, its striking design, and the punchy performance of that V6, understanding that those qualities come with a fuel economy penalty.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the Stinger AWD 3.3T achieves 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The 17 MPG city figure reflects the engine’s eagerness to deliver power at a moment’s notice. Its twin-turbo setup may suffer from some lag when starting from a complete stop, which is why it doesn’t achieve higher city efficiency. Highway fuel economy is more respectable, particularly on long road trips.

The eight-speed automatic transmission does a decent job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot for both performance and efficiency once at cruising speed. However, aggressive passing maneuvers or uphill climbs will inevitably dip into the fuel reserves.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2021 Kia Stinger AWD 3.3L is $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using the national average fuel price for premium gasoline at the time of calculation. It’s a substantial cost, and potential buyers should factor this into their budget. Keep in mind that changes in fuel prices will directly impact the actual annual cost.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy with the Stinger AWD 3.3T will vary depending on driving style, road conditions, and even the season. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates if you’re gentle with the throttle and spend most of your time on the highway. More aggressive driving, particularly in stop-and-go traffic, will likely result in lower fuel economy. It’s not uncommon to see averages dip into the low teens when using the engine’s full potential. Remember that the Stinger AWD 3.3T requires premium fuel, further increasing the cost per mile. Refer to STINGER MPG across all years for other variations of the model.

How it compares

The Stinger AWD 3.3T’s fuel economy sits in a competitive spot within its class. The BMW 340i xDrive, for example, is rated at 22 MPG combined, a noticeable improvement, although the 340i carries a higher price tag. The Audi S5 Sportback, another stylish contender, achieves a similar 24 MPG combined, so it is unlikely to sway prospective shoppers concerned with fuel economy. A comparably equipped Infiniti Q50 Red Sport 400 AWD lands around 22 MPG combined. These differences matter to the Stinger buyer because it reinforces the fact they are prioritizing aesthetic and value over being the most fuel-efficient model. For those concerned with the Kia brand overall, explore all Kia fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Stinger’s turbochargers spool up quickly, and the temptation to unleash the engine’s power is strong, but doing so will significantly impact fuel consumption. Smooth, deliberate throttle inputs will help keep the car in its most efficient operating range.

Use the Stinger’s drive modes strategically. Select “Eco” mode when cruising on the highway or driving in low-speed, stop-and-go traffic. This mode softens throttle response and optimizes transmission shifting for better fuel economy. Save “Sport” mode for when you truly want to enjoy the car’s performance capabilities.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels found on the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Remove any items from the trunk or passenger compartment that you don’t need. Every extra pound adds to the car’s overall weight and reduces its fuel efficiency, especially in city driving.

Plan your routes carefully. Minimizing stop-and-go traffic and choosing routes with fewer hills will help improve your fuel economy. Use navigation apps to find the most efficient routes and avoid congestion.