25 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling challenges, but it’s a respectable figure for the 2024 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L 4-cyl, a small SUV that prioritizes comfort, space, and all-weather traction over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a Prius competitor; it’s for families or individuals who need a practical, versatile vehicle and are willing to accept middling fuel economy in exchange for its many other strengths. Buyers choose the Tucson for its value, warranty, and attractive design, understanding that fuel costs are a secondary concern compared to having a reliable and well-equipped SUV.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2024 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L at 23 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the Tucson’s performance in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works harder and has less opportunity to operate efficiently. The highway MPG demonstrates that the Tucson can achieve closer to 30 MPG when cruising at consistent speeds. These numbers are fairly typical for a non-hybrid, all-wheel-drive SUV in its class, reflecting a reasonable balance between performance and fuel consumption. While not class-leading, they are considered acceptable for those needing the security of AWD, particularly in regions with inclement weather.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2024 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L is $1,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that actual fuel costs can vary depending on driving habits, location, and fluctuations in gas prices. Someone who drives predominantly in the city or has a lead foot will likely see a higher annual cost than someone who primarily drives on the highway and practices efficient driving techniques. This $1,750 figure provides a benchmark, allowing potential buyers to compare the Tucson’s fuel costs against those of other vehicles they may be considering. Remember to check all Hyundai fuel economy data for more context.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can and often does deviate. Factors such as driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and even tire pressure can all impact the MPG you actually achieve with your Tucson. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will significantly decrease fuel efficiency. Driving in mountainous areas or in strong winds will also negatively affect your MPG. Owners report experiencing figures that are close to the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Consistently smooth driving can approach the 29 MPG highway figure even on commutes that include some stop-and-go traffic. It’s important to manage your expectations and understand that achieving the EPA numbers consistently requires conscious effort.

How it compares

In the competitive compact SUV segment, the 2024 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L’s fuel economy stacks up reasonably well. The Toyota RAV4 offers slightly better numbers, with the AWD version achieving around 27 MPG combined. The Honda CR-V AWD is similarly efficient, also hovering around 27 MPG combined. However, those gains come with slightly higher price tags in some configurations. The Mazda CX-5, known for its sporty driving dynamics, typically achieves around 24 MPG combined with its AWD system, making the Tucson a slightly more efficient choice. The Subaru Forester, a direct competitor known for its standard AWD, also gets around 26 MPG combined. These comparisons matter because buyers in this segment are often cross-shopping based on features, price, and fuel economy, so the Tucson’s 25 MPG positions it as a competitive, if not class-leading, option. For those concerned about fuel economy specifically, research TUCSON MPG across all years for the optimal model year.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Tucson’s 8-speed automatic transmission is programmed to optimize fuel economy, but your driving habits can have a much larger impact. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Consistent, smooth driving is the single most effective way to boost your MPG.

Tire pressure plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and ensure they are inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. A simple tire pressure gauge can pay for itself quickly in fuel savings and extended tire life.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Carrying around extra cargo adds to the load the engine has to haul, decreasing fuel efficiency. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and back seats. Every little bit helps, especially during city driving where frequent acceleration is required.

Minimize idling time. If you are stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, and prolonged idling wastes fuel and contributes to emissions. This is especially relevant during school drop-offs or pickups, where idling is common.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which reduces fluctuations in fuel consumption. This is particularly effective on long highway drives where speed variations can significantly impact your MPG. The Tucson’s smart cruise control system makes it easy to maintain a safe following distance and optimize fuel efficiency simultaneously.