22 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but that figure is almost irrelevant to the Veloster N buyer. No one chooses this car for its frugality. They choose it for its riotous personality, its playful handling, and the sheer joy of thrashing a turbocharged, front-wheel-drive hatchback. The Veloster N is a performance bargain, and a few extra trips to the pump are simply the price of admission. This is a car for enthusiasts, and fuel economy is a distant second to fun.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Veloster N at 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. The relatively low city MPG reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving where the turbocharger is constantly spooling up, and the engine is fighting parasitic losses from accessories. It’s honest, and a true reflection of how the car behaves. The 27 MPG highway figure is more attainable if you’re disciplined with throttle inputs, but even then, the Veloster N’s eagerness to accelerate means you’ll likely see lower numbers in the real world, especially if you’re tempted by Sport or N mode. This isn’t a car designed for long, boring commutes, and its fuel consumption reflects that.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Hyundai Veloster N at $2,650. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that premium fuel is recommended for the Veloster N to extract maximum performance from its turbocharged engine, so those “national average fuel prices” may be lower than what you actually pay at the pump. This $2,650 figure is a helpful benchmark, but individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits and local fuel prices.

Real-world expectations

Drivers who regularly exploit the Veloster N’s performance potential will likely see average fuel economy figures below the EPA combined rating. If you prioritize aggressive acceleration and spirited driving, expect numbers closer to the low 20s or even high teens. However, with a conscious effort to drive conservatively on the highway, achieving the advertised 27 MPG is possible. The truth is the Veloster N has a split personality. It can be reasonably efficient if you’re gentle, but it actively encourages you to be anything but. If you’re looking for all Hyundai fuel economy data, we have lots more information on FuelEconomyHub.com.

How it compares

Compared to other hot hatchbacks, the Veloster N’s fuel economy is competitive, but certainly not leading the pack. The Honda Civic Si, for example, achieves a combined 31 MPG, making it a significantly more fuel-efficient choice for daily driving. However, the Si sacrifices some of the Veloster N’s raw aggression and visceral driving experience. The Volkswagen GTI, another popular option, manages a combined 28 MPG with the automatic transmission and a slightly lower 25 MPG with the manual. The Subaru WRX delivers in that same general range. A key consideration is that the Veloster N delivers an intensely focused driving experience for a lower price. Owners are willing to accept the less-than-stellar MPG as a cost savings elsewhere. If you are interested in checking out VELOSTER MPG across all years, click here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the drive mode selector judiciously. While N mode unleashes the Veloster N’s full potential, it also encourages aggressive throttle Inputs. Switching to Normal or Eco mode will noticeably improve fuel economy, especially during city driving where hair-trigger throttle response is not needed.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, which improves fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended levels. An added benefit is that improving tire pressure will improve your car’s already impressive handling.

Limit your use of launch control. Launching the Veloster N is undeniably fun, but it places significant stress on the engine and transmission, and it guzzles fuel. Save launch control for special occasions to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption and drivetrain wear.

Anticipate traffic flow. Avoiding sudden acceleration and braking can significantly improve fuel economy, especially in city driving. Pay attention to traffic patterns and anticipate stops to minimize unnecessary energy expenditure. A little bit of defensive driving allows you to exploit the performance when you need it, and conserve fuel when you don’t.