32 MPG combined is a respectable number for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid. It demonstrates Hyundai’s engineering capabilities with hybrid systems more than the Santa Fe’s aerodynamics. This is a spacious two-row SUV for families, not a hyper-efficient economy car. That 32 MPG figure is a significant improvement over the standard gasoline-only Santa Fe and makes it a good option for buyers who want to save fuel and need practicality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid are 33 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The higher city rating is typical of hybrid vehicles, which use regenerative braking and electric motor assist more effectively in stop-and-go conditions. The highway figure, while slightly lower, is still good for a vehicle of this size and shape. Drivers who primarily drive in urban environments will see the most benefit from the hybrid system, while those with longer highway commutes will find reasonable fuel consumption.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid at $1,350. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific blend of gasoline available in your area. The $1,350 estimate provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Santa Fe Hybrid’s fuel expenses to those of other vehicles in its class. See all Hyundai fuel economy data to get a complete picture of the lineup.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, but real-world MPG can vary. Aggressive driving, heavy cargo loads, and extreme weather conditions can all impact fuel economy. Many Santa Fe Hybrid owners report achieving figures close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions, about 32 MPG. To get the best fuel efficiency in any hybrid vehicle, drive smoothly, avoid unnecessary acceleration, and anticipate traffic flow.

Those interested in SANTA MPG across all years should investigate SANTA MPG across all years. The hybrid powertrain delivers substantial savings over the traditionally powered Santa Fe.

How it compares

The 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid competes with other hybrid SUVs. The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has an EPA-estimated 40 MPG combined, making it more efficient. The Ford Escape Hybrid achieves a similar combined figure of around 39 MPG. The Santa Fe Hybrid offers a larger cabin and more cargo space than the Escape, but gets fewer MPG than the RAV4. The Honda CR-V Hybrid achieves 40 MPG, challenging the Santa Fe’s position.

The choice comes down to individual priorities: fuel economy versus interior space and features. For the best MPG, buyers should look at the RAV4 or CR-V, but some buyers are willing to trade 7-8 MPG for the Santa Fe Hybrid’s more spacious interior.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Santa Fe Hybrid’s Eco driving mode. This adjusts the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. You may notice a slight decrease in acceleration, but the MPG gain can be significant, especially during city driving. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. These driving habits consume more fuel and reduce the effectiveness of the regenerative braking system, which recaptures energy to recharge the battery.

Monitor the energy flow display on the infotainment screen. This display provides real-time information about how the hybrid system works. It shows when the electric motor is assisting the gasoline engine, when regenerative braking is active, and when the vehicle is running solely on electric power. By understanding how the system works, you can adjust your driving habits to maximize efficiency.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI makes a noticeable difference, especially on longer trips. Reduce weight. Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy.

Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment or tools, to lighten the load. Roof racks also create drag, so remove them if you aren’t using them. The “Auto” setting on the climate control system saps more power than the fan-only setting.