The 2016 Hyundai Azera 3.3L V6 gets 23 MPG combined. This isn’t the most fuel-efficient car, but it’s a comfortable and spacious near-luxury sedan that emphasizes a smooth ride and easy power. Azera buyers usually want refinement and value. They’re willing to accept average fuel consumption. This car is known for its comfortable seats, quiet cabin, and many features; not for saving fuel like a subcompact.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Azera at 20 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go driving. The Azera’s weight and large engine require more fuel to accelerate. The highway figure is better because the engine cruises easily. The smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine efficient at higher speeds. However, the Azera prioritizes ample power for passing and merging over ultimate fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 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 costs may differ depending on your driving, fuel type, and gas prices. If you drive more than 15,000 miles per year or live where fuel prices are higher, you’ll pay more than $1,900. If you drive less and gas prices are lower, your annual fuel cost will be less.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a starting point, but real-world fuel economy varies. Some Azera owners report numbers close to, and sometimes above, the EPA estimates, usually on highway trips. Aggressive driving, short trips, and city traffic will lower fuel economy. Under these conditions, expect around 20 MPG in the city. The Azera’s fuel economy doesn’t change drastically based on driving style. It delivers consistent, predictable fuel economy.

How it Compares

The 2016 Hyundai Azera’s fuel economy is average for its class. A similarly equipped 2016 Toyota Avalon, achieves about 24 MPG combined. A 2016 Buick LaCrosse with its 3.6L V6 gets about 21 MPG combined. A comparable 2016 Chrysler 300 with the 3.6L V6 gets approximately 23 MPG combined, the same as the Azera. Buyers who value comfort first may not view the MPG equivalency as a negative for the Azera, because other vehicles that they were cross-shopping provide similar fuel efficiency.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Azera’s 3.3L V6 has enough power, and pressing hard on the gas pedal uses fuel quickly. Accelerate smoothly to maximize efficiency, especially in the city.

Keep the tires properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressures regularly; the recommended levels are on a sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce weight. Extra weight forces the engine to work harder and decreases fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Removing easily removed items from the trunk (like golf clubs or boxes) can collectively improve efficiency.

Plan Trips. Combine errands into one trip to minimize cold starts, which use more fuel. Try to avoid peak traffic hours, because stop-and-go driving consumes more fuel than cruising at a steady speed.

Consider using cruise control. On the highway, cruise control can maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel economy. Be mindful of hills, as cruise control may downshift rapidly to maintain speed which can negate some fuel-saving benefits. Hyundai fuel economy data confirms that steady speeds get better mileage.