The 2015 Hyundai Azera equipped with the 3.3L V6 gets 23 MPG combined. It’s an adequate figure for a large, comfortable, and well-equipped sedan aimed at providing a near-luxury experience without the associated price tag. The Azera appeals to someone who values space, comfort, and a smooth ride. These buyers typically aren’t prioritizing fuel economy, but they also don’t want to feel like they’re wasting money at the pump. The Azera’s fuel economy provides enough efficiency while delivering the benefits they seek.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2015 Hyundai Azera at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That split reflects the Azera’s character. The city figure shows the penalty of hauling a relatively hefty sedan with a naturally aspirated V6 in stop-and-go traffic. The 3.3L engine, while smooth and responsive, needs to work to get the Azera moving, impacting efficiency.

The highway number is more respectable. At cruising speeds, the six-speed automatic transmission settles into its higher gears, and the engine runs comfortably, resulting in better fuel consumption. During long road trips, drivers can expect to see figures approaching, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s estimate, especially with careful driving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2015 Hyundai Azera 3.3L V6 at $1,900. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and fuel prices in your area. Someone who primarily drives in congested city conditions will likely exceed this estimate, while a driver who does mostly highway miles might come in below it. To calculate it on your own, multiply the number of miles you drive per year by your area’s average gas price, then divide by the combined MPG. The $1,900 provides a good baseline for comparison shopping and budgeting.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy for the 2015 Azera can vary from the EPA figures, which provide a standardized benchmark. Drivers with a heavier foot or those who frequently encounter stop-and-go traffic will likely see numbers closer to the lower end, perhaps around 21-22 MPG combined. On the other hand, those who prioritize smooth acceleration, anticipate traffic flow, and spend a significant amount of time on the open road could realistically achieve 25 MPG or better. The Azera’s onboard computer provides a running average MPG readout, which can be a useful tool for monitoring your fuel consumption and adjusting your driving habits. Remember that factors such as tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and weather conditions can also influence your mileage.

How it compares

In 2015, the Azera competed against a crowded field of large sedans. Compared to the Toyota Avalon with its 3.5L V6, which achieved 21 MPG city and 31 MPG highway, the Azera lagged slightly behind in both city and highway performance. The Buick LaCrosse, similarly equipped with a 3.6L V6, offered numbers in the same ballpark as the Azera, at 18 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. Considering all Hyundai fuel economy data, the Azera’s numbers are typical for a V6 in this class. The Nissan Maxima, often touted for its sporty driving, returned comparable figures to the Azera, usually around 22 MPG combined in previous model years with a 3.5L V6. These comparisons show the Azera is not class-leading in efficiency, but not significantly worse than its competitors. For someone considering AZERA MPG across all years, this model delivers competetive numbers.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Azera. Avoid aggressive starts and sudden bursts of speed, as those will heavily impact fuel consumption. The 3.3L V6 is responsive enough to provide adequate power without needing to be pushed hard. Smooth and consistent throttle application is more efficient.

Proper tire inflation plays a critical role. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Every extra pound contributes to increased fuel consumption. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and passenger compartment, such as sporting equipment, tools, or other heavy objects.

Plan your trips efficiently. Combine errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are fuel-intensive. Avoid rush hour traffic whenever possible to reduce idling time, which also negatively affects fuel economy. Using the navigation system to find the most direct route can also save fuel.