25 MPG combined is decent for the 2022 Kia Stinger RWD 2.5L, showing it’s a budget-friendly sport sedan that still offers some practicality. It’s not a hybrid or a commuter car focused on saving gas; it’s a stylish, fun car that blends performance and value. Stinger buyers usually care more about enjoying the drive and a unique design than getting the best fuel economy, accepting an average MPG for its unique character and capabilities.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2022 Stinger 2.5L RWD are 22 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway. While the city number isn’t the best in its class, it’s acceptable for stop-and-go traffic considering the engine’s 255 horsepower. The highway number is more impressive, showing that the eight-speed automatic transmission is designed for efficient cruising when the Stinger isn’t driven hard. Direct injection, turbocharging, and a well-tuned transmission all help achieve these numbers. While quick acceleration will use more fuel, keeping a steady speed on the open road lets the Stinger show its more economical side.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Kia Stinger 2.5L RWD at $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will change depending on your driving, city versus highway driving, and local fuel prices. Premium fuel is recommended for the best performance, which will increase your fuel expenses. Buyers should include this cost in their budget, as it’s a significant, predictable expense.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a standard, real-world fuel economy varies based on driving styles and weather. STINGER MPG across all years can give you a better sense of owner reported MPG. Drivers who accelerate quickly or often drive in busy cities might see numbers closer to the low end of the EPA range, or even lower. However, drivers who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic, and drive more on the highway could achieve numbers close to, or even better than, the EPA’s 32 MPG highway estimate. The Stinger’s relatively low weight for its size helps in this area. Using the Stinger’s selectable drive modes can also change things, as “Eco” mode will prioritize less gas over performance.

How it compares

The Stinger’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. For example, the BMW 330i, a direct competitor, gets around 25 MPG combined. The Genesis G70, which uses the same platform as the Stinger, also gets similar numbers, around 25 MPG combined for the 2.0T RWD model. The Acura TLX offers a more luxurious experience and gets around 25 MPG combined with its base engine. What the Stinger has that these don’t all have is its hatchback for better utility. All Kia fuel economy data proves that even their performance line of cars do adequately in fuel ratings. These comparisons show that the Stinger’s fuel use is competitive for a sporty sedan, but it’s not the most efficient. The small fuel economy tradeoffs are often seen as acceptable for its style, performance, and value.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Stinger’s “Eco” drive mode when you can, especially when commuting or driving normally. This mode adjusts how the throttle responds and how the transmission shifts to prioritize less gas over quick acceleration. This is a small change that can help over time without changing the Stinger’s driving feel.

Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure, which you can find on the driver’s side doorjamb. Tires with low pressure increase rolling resistance, which increases fuel use. Checking tire pressure regularly is an easy way to improve fuel economy and extend tire life.

Avoid idling for too long. Modern engines are efficient even when starting, so idling uses fuel without moving the car. If you’re waiting for more than a minute, it’s usually better to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready.

Drive smoothly and consistently. Avoid accelerating and braking hard, as these increase fuel use a lot. Anticipate traffic, keep a steady speed, and use cruise control on the highway whenever possible to save fuel.

Get regular maintenance for your Stinger, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, which improves fuel economy. Following the maintenance schedule is important for both performance and fuel economy.