The 2024 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L 4-cyl gets a combined fuel economy rating of 26 MPG. This is an acceptable number for a subcompact SUV designed to offer affordability, practicality, and all-weather driving. Kona owners usually want a versatile vehicle for city streets and weekend trips, and they know that all-wheel drive slightly reduces MPG.

City and highway performance

The 2024 Kona AWD 1.6L gets an EPA-estimated 24 MPG in the city, and 29 MPG on the highway. The lower city MPG reflects stop-and-go driving where the engine works harder, especially when accelerating. The highway MPG is more representative of steady cruising, where the engine runs more efficiently. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps optimize MPG across different driving conditions. Its wide gear ratio helps the engine stay in its best range, and the programming accurately manages shift points.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L 4-cyl at $1,700. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year using national average fuel prices. It helps to compare the cost of owning different vehicles, but your real fuel costs will vary depending on your driving, fuel type, and local prices. While $1,700 is a helpful comparison point, the real-world cost could be higher or lower.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standard fuel economy ratings, but real-world MPG can vary. Aggressive driving, short trips, heavy loads, and using air conditioning can all lower fuel economy. Owners who accelerate smoothly, anticipate traffic, and use cruise control on the highway can expect to get closer to the EPA estimates. Tire pressure and vehicle maintenance also affect MPG. Keeping your tires inflated and servicing your vehicle regularly can help you maintain good MPG. See KONA MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2024 Hyundai Kona AWD 1.6L is in a competitive class. The Mazda CX-30 with its standard 2.5L engine gets a slightly lower 25 MPG combined with AWD. The Subaru Crosstrek, another popular AWD subcompact SUV, gets 27 MPG combined. The Nissan Kicks, a front-wheel-drive competitor, gets 31 MPG combined. For buyers who specifically need AWD, the Kona’s MPG is similar to its direct competitors, but the FWD Kicks proves that MPG improves without all-wheel-drive. For those interested in other models, see all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 1.6L turbocharged engine in the Kona responds well to smooth acceleration. Avoid sudden bursts of speed, which use a lot of fuel. Instead, gradually increase your speed for better engine efficiency. This is helpful in city traffic.

The Kona’s eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and efficiently. Let it do its job. Avoid manually shifting unless needed, as the transmission’s computer is optimized for MPG in most situations. Let the car decide on its own.

Tire pressure affects MPG. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Regularly check your tire pressure and keep it at the recommended level, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Small tire adjustments can make a difference.

Remove extra weight from your vehicle. Carrying heavy items in the trunk or backseat reduces MPG. Take out anything you don’t need for your daily drive or trips. Even small weight amounts add up.

Plan routes to avoid busy areas. Stop-and-go traffic lowers MPG. Using navigation apps to find and avoid traffic can increase your MPG, especially during rush hour. If you will be idling for a while, such as waiting for someone, consider turning off the engine.