With 35 MPG combined, the 2024 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid is a good choice for buyers seeking SUV practicality with lower fuel costs. It appeals to customers who value tax incentives and the ability to commute using electric power without sacrificing the practicality of a traditional SUV.

City and highway performance

The EPA ratings show identical fuel economy of 35 MPG for city and highway driving. This consistency highlights the advantages of a plug-in hybrid system. In city driving, the electric motor can handle much of the workload, especially in stop-and-go traffic, and supplement or replace the gasoline engine. This maximizes efficiency in environments where gasoline engines struggle. On the highway, the plug-in hybrid system uses both the electric motor and gasoline engine to maintain good efficiency. The Tucson’s powertrain manages the interaction between electric and gasoline power, switching modes to ensure the best mileage. Both the electric motor and gasoline engine contribute to the fuel efficiency.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2024 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid at $1,250. This figure assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark, but individual driving habits and local fuel costs will affect the actual amount you spend. Drivers who maximize electric-only driving will likely see lower fuel costs, potentially saving hundreds of dollars each year. This figure does not account for the cost of electricity to charge the Tucson’s battery.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized ratings, real-world fuel economy will vary depending on driving style, terrain, and weather conditions. Tucson Plug-in Hybrid owners can expect to see mileage fluctuate, especially when regularly driving long distances without the opportunity to recharge. To maximize your fuel savings, prioritize electric driving whenever possible. Consistent charging habits are important for keeping fuel economy high. A plug-in hybrid offers flexibility, and regular charging is very beneficial.

How it compares

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Plug-in Hybrid compares well to its competitors in fuel efficiency, but differences exist that matter depending on your priorities. The Toyota RAV4 Prime, another popular plug-in hybrid SUV, achieves an EPA combined rating of 38 MPG. The RAV4 Prime gets slightly better fuel economy than the Tucson. The standard hybrid version of the 2024 Tucson gets 38 MPG combined. For buyers who prioritize maximizing MPG, the standard Tucson Hybrid is a good value. Also look at TUCSON MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Make charging a routine. Plug in your Tucson whenever possible, even for short periods. This will help keep the battery charged, allowing you to drive on electric power more often. If available, take advantage of off-peak electricity rates to minimize the cost of charging.

Optimize your driving style. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking, which can drain the battery and reduce fuel economy. Watch traffic conditions and maintain a steady speed. The Tucson Plug-in Hybrid uses regenerative braking, which captures energy during deceleration and recharges the battery, increasing overall efficiency.

Use the available driving modes properly. The Tucson offers driving modes such as Eco, Sport, and EV. Use Eco mode for everyday driving to prioritize fuel efficiency. Use EV mode for short trips and city driving to maximize electric-only range. Learn about each mode and how to use them best.

Keep your tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can reduce fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level. The correct tire pressure can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Too much weight in your vehicle can negatively impact fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area. The lighter the vehicle, the less energy it takes to accelerate and maintain speed. You can learn more on our site at all Hyundai fuel economy data.