The 2022 Hyundai Accent gets 36 MPG combined. While the interior is surprisingly spacious and the tech is user-friendly, the Accent’s fuel efficiency is the main reason why budget-conscious buyers choose it. This isn’t a car for enthusiasts craving performance or luxury buyers demanding refinement. It’s for those who want to get from point A to point B using as little gas as possible.

City and highway performance

The EPA rates the 2022 Hyundai Accent 1.6L 4-cylinder at 33 MPG in the city and 41 MPG on the highway. These numbers are achievable in real-world driving if you avoid aggressive acceleration and maintain a steady pace. The engine is tuned for efficiency, delivering its power smoothly. The automatic transmission (Hyundai calls it an “Intelligent Variable Transmission”, or IVT) plays an important role because it continuously adjusts the gear ratio to keep the engine operating in its most efficient range. While it’s not the most engaging powertrain, it prioritizes fuel sipping above all else. Highway driving is where the Accent shines, easily meeting or even exceeding the 41 MPG estimate on long road trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Hyundai Accent at $1,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (mostly city vs. highway), and the price of gasoline in your area. The $1,200 estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Accent’s efficiency to other vehicles. For many Accent buyers, minimizing this annual expense is a key consideration.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized measure of fuel economy, but real-world results can vary. Drivers who accelerate quickly will likely see lower numbers than the EPA estimates, while those who accelerate smoothly and maintain consistent speeds can easily match or exceed them. The Accent’s light weight and aerodynamic profile also help its efficiency. You can expect to see numbers at or slightly above the combined 36 MPG rating, especially with conscious driving. Be sure to view our ACCENT MPG across all years on this site as well.

How it compares

The Accent’s fuel economy is a key advantage in its competitive segment. The Kia Rio shares the same engine and transmission, so nearly identical fuel economy figures are expected. The Nissan Versa, rated at 32 MPG combined for the automatic transmission version, falls slightly behind. The Mitsubishi Mirage boasts an impressive 39 MPG combined, making it a good alternative for those who want less gas. This comparison is important because buyers often cross-shop these vehicles looking for the best blend of price, features, and efficiency. To see how Hyundai does across the board, check out all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Accent. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and strive for gradual increases in velocity. The 1.6L engine works best when not straining. Heavy acceleration will drastically reduce MPG, and this simple adjustment can make a noticeable difference over time, especially in city driving.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. The Accent’s IVT transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy at cruising speeds. Don’t constantly speed up and slow down because it wastes fuel. Using cruise control on long stretches of highway can help maintain a consistent speed, improving efficiency.

Proper tire inflation is critical for fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the recommended levels listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Even a small change in tire pressure can impact your MPG.

Removing excess items from your trunk and cabin can improve fuel economy, even if only slightly. Every pound adds to the vehicle’s workload, requiring more fuel to move it. A lighter car is a more efficient car.