33 MPG combined might not break any records, but in a mid-size SUV with seating for five and standard all-wheel drive, the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid strikes a good balance between utility and efficiency. It’s a family-oriented crossover packed with features and designed to handle daily life, appealing to buyers who want practicality without sacrificing fuel economy.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid at 33 MPG in both city and highway driving. That near identical rating shows Hyundai’s hybrid system is calibrated to favor electric power at lower speeds and the gasoline engine on the open road. This isn’t a vehicle designed to hypermile. Its real-world purpose is comfortable, safe transportation for families, and the consistent MPG figures reflect the well-integrated hybrid system working in diverse driving conditions.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid to be $1,350. This is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, using the national average fuel prices for regular gasoline and electricity. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the price of gasoline in your area, and how often you charge the battery. For someone who primarily uses the Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid for shorter trips and consistently plugs in, this figure could be significantly lower.

Real-world expectations

The posted 33 MPG combined could be a worst-case scenario if you fully maximize the plug-in functionality. SANTA MPG across all years can improve dramatically as the Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid offers about 30 miles of all-electric range on a full charge. If your daily commute falls within this range, you could realistically drive gas-free most of the time, reserving the gasoline engine for longer trips. In that scenario, the 33 MPG serves as a valuable safety net and range extender, not necessarily a reflection of your everyday fuel consumption. Expect to see much higher MPGe numbers when maximizing the electric range.

How it compares

The Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV is a direct competitor, offering similar plug-in hybrid capability. The Outlander PHEV boasts an EPA combined MPGe rating of 64 and a gasoline-only combined MPG of 26. The Toyota RAV4 Prime is another competitor in this segment, touting a combined MPGe of 94 and a gasoline-only combined MPG of 38. While these figures suggest an advantage, the RAV4 Prime is often priced higher and may be harder to find at dealerships. The Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid offers more cargo space than the RAV4 Prime. The Santa Fe balances all-electric range, fuel efficiency, and overall value, often appealing to pragmatists.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Take advantage of the regenerative braking system. The Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid features adjustable regenerative braking, allowing you to control the level of deceleration when you lift off the accelerator pedal. Experiment with the different settings to find the level that suits your driving style and maximizes energy recovery. Strong regenerative braking can add range, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Pre-condition the cabin while plugged in. On extremely hot or cold days, use the Hyundai’s Bluelink app to pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin while the vehicle is still plugged into the charger. This draws power from the grid rather than the battery, saving battery charge and maintaining optimal efficiency during your drive. This is especially helpful if you consistently travel the same route.

Pay attention to tire pressure. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, improving fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during extreme weather changes, and maintain the pressure recommended on the tire placard located on the driver’s side doorjamb. Even a few PSI can cause efficiency losses over time.

Analyze your driving data to refine your technique. The Santa Fe Plug-in Hybrid’s infotainment system provides detailed driving data, including energy consumption and driving patterns. Review this information regularly to identify areas where you can improve your driving habits. Smooth acceleration and consistent speeds are key to maximizing efficiency in any hybrid vehicle. Consult all Hyundai fuel economy data to explore other ways to improve your next journey.