20 MPG combined is the fuel economy for the 2022 Kia Stinger AWD 3.3L 6-cyl, a number that won’t win any awards, but one that’s almost beside the point for its target audience. This version of the Stinger caters to drivers who want a strong, engaging driving experience over ultimate fuel savings. It’s a sports sedan with the added benefit of all-wheel drive, and its fuel consumption reflects that performance focus.

City and highway performance

The Stinger’s 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway figures show where this car performs best. Urban environments, with their stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, put a strain on fuel economy. The turbocharged V6 needs fuel to deliver its performance, and that’s most noticeable when navigating city streets. On the open highway, the Stinger settles into a more efficient cruising rhythm.

With less demand on the engine, the Stinger AWD 3.3L shows some restraint. Long-distance travel becomes more palatable, even if it’s not the car’s primary mission. For those who primarily drive in the city, the fuel consumption will be more noticeable. For those who frequently stretch its legs on the open road, the fuel expenditures become more reasonable.

Annual fuel cost

According to EPA estimates, the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Kia Stinger AWD 3.3L 6-cyl is $2,900. This value is calculated based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, and using national average fuel prices. Your own annual fuel expense will vary depending on your driving habits and local fuel costs. Drivers who cover more highway miles, or who are simply lighter on the accelerator, will likely see a lower figure.

Those who drive predominantly in the city, or enjoy the Stinger’s performance capabilities to their fullest extent, should expect to spend closer to, or even above, the $2,900 mark. The $2,900 is an estimate, but it’s a reasonable benchmark.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized testing baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, traffic conditions, weather, and even tire pressure can all play a role. Stinger drivers who frequently exploit the engine’s power, engaging in spirited acceleration and aggressive driving habits, should expect a lower average MPG than the EPA estimates. Those who adopt a more conservative approach, employing smooth acceleration and anticipating traffic flow, may find themselves closer to the EPA’s figures.

It’s also important to remember that all-wheel-drive systems provide enhanced traction and stability, and they add weight and mechanical drag, which can negatively impact fuel economy compared to a rear-wheel-drive variant of the same car.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined for the Stinger puts it in a specific competitive landscape. The Acura TLX Type S, another performance sedan with AWD and a turbocharged V6, achieves a similar 21 MPG combined. A comparable BMW 340i xDrive posts around 26 MPG combined. The Audi S4, with its own turbocharged V6 and quattro all-wheel drive, manages approximately 24 MPG. These comparisons demonstrate that the Stinger’s fuel economy isn’t drastically out of line with other performance sedans in its class and configuration.

The BMW and Audi deliver better MPG, but the Stinger offers a different blend of style, performance, and value that appeals to a distinct buyer. These buyers are trading some MPG for distinct character and cost. You can review STINGER MPG across all years to understand trends across generations.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive acceleration. The Stinger’s turbocharged V6 offers plenty of power, and it can be tempting to use it frequently. Each burst of acceleration demands extra fuel, and adopting a smoother, more gradual approach to speed will help conserve fuel and keep you closer to the combined MPG.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check and maintain the recommended tire pressure (found on the driver’s side doorjamb) regularly to optimize fuel economy. This is often overlooked but makes a small difference over time.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excess cargo in the trunk adds weight to the vehicle, reducing fuel economy. Remove any items that are not essential for your daily commute or driving needs. Every extra pound counts, especially in a car already carrying the weight of an AWD system.

Take advantage of cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed on the highway minimizes fluctuations in engine load and fuel consumption. Cruise control helps you maintain a steady pace, leading to improved fuel economy on long journeys. More aggressive use of cruise control can have negative impacts, too.

Consider driving modes selectively. The Stinger offers different driving modes (e.g., Comfort, Eco, Sport). While Sport mode enhances throttle response and performance, it can also decrease fuel economy. Select Eco or Comfort mode for everyday driving, reserving Sport mode for situations where maximum performance is desired. The difference in daily MPG may be small, but it adds up over time.

The Kia brand has several models if you want to review all Kia fuel economy data.