29 MPG combined doesn’t land the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L in hybrid territory, but it represents a reasonable compromise for buyers who value its spunky personality and available all-wheel drive. This isn’t a vehicle chasing hypermiling bragging rights. Instead, it’s targeting young professionals and urban dwellers who need a versatile, compact package that can handle weekend adventures and the occasional snowy commute.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L break down to 27 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the Kona’s stop-and-go nature, where the 1.6L turbocharged engine’s readily available torque helps it dart through traffic. The highway number shows that the Kona can hold its own on longer journeys, settling into a comfortable cruise with decent fuel efficiency. The seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM-S7) plays a key role here, choosing gears efficiently to keep the engine in its sweet spot. These MPG figures are realistic for the type of driving this subcompact SUV typically encounters.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L is estimated at $1,500. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and where you live. But $1,500 provides a good benchmark for understanding the overall running costs of this vehicle. It’s a worthwhile figure to keep in mind when comparing it against competitors and assessing your budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates based on individual driving styles, traffic conditions, and terrain. Kona owners living in hilly areas or those with a heavy foot might see slightly lower figures. Conversely, those who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds could potentially exceed the EPA estimates. The Kona’s relatively light weight and responsive engine generally contribute to fuel-efficient driving when approached with some restraint. Expect that 29 MPG combined will be the average for most drivers in mixed conditions.

How it compares

The Kona’s fuel economy stacks up reasonably well against its competitors in the subcompact SUV segment. For example, the Mazda CX-30 with all-wheel drive achieves around 25 MPG combined, making the Kona a slightly more efficient option. The Honda HR-V with AWD, before its 2023 redesign, offered similar fuel economy at around 28 MPG combined. Interestingly, the Nissan Kicks, which doesn’t offer all-wheel drive, boasts a significantly higher 33 MPG combined. The Kicks sacrifices AWD capability for fuel efficiency, underscoring a key trade-off for Kona buyers who prioritize all-weather traction. Even Kia’s Seltos with AWD and its 2.0-liter engine manages around 27 MPG combined, again proving the Kona is a wise choice. These comparisons matter to Kona buyers because they seek a balance between all-weather capability and acceptable running costs.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Kona’s turbocharged engine responds well to smooth acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and sudden braking to conserve fuel. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady pace will help you stay within the engine’s efficiency sweet spot more often.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Use a quality tire pressure gauge to ensure accuracy.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo weighs the car down, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools. A lighter load means better fuel efficiency.

Minimize idling time. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, such as at a traffic light or waiting to pick someone up, turn off the engine. Restarting the Kona is quick and easy.

Consider your driving route. Choosing routes with fewer stoplights and less traffic congestion can significantly improve your fuel economy. Planning your trips and using navigation apps to avoid congested areas can make a big difference, particularly during rush hour. See all Hyundai fuel economy data and understand yours.