20 MPG combined is an acceptable, if unremarkable, fuel economy figure for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 3.3L 6-cyl. This isn’t a hybrid or a fuel-sipping crossover. The Santa Fe, in this configuration, is a V6-powered family hauler designed to comfortably move people and their cargo, and to do so with the added security of all-wheel drive. Owners of this particular Santa Fe trim prioritize space, power, and year-round traction over outright fuel efficiency, accepting its fuel consumption as a trade-off for these attributes.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest that the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD with the 3.3L V6 will achieve 18 MPG in city driving and 24 MPG on the highway. While the 24 MPG highway figure is achievable on long road trips, the 18 MPG city estimate can be optimistic depending on driving habits and traffic conditions. A lead foot and frequent stop-and-go traffic will drag that city figure down considerably. The six-speed automatic transmission, while generally smooth and responsive, doesn’t include the latest fuel-saving technologies found in more modern eight or nine-speed units. Highway cruising is where the Santa Fe performs best, benefitting from the engine’s ample power at lower RPMs, resulting in slightly better fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 3.3L 6-cyl to be exactly $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a blend of 55% city and 45% highway driving, and assuming the national average fuel price at the time of calculation. It’s critical to understand that this is merely an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the type of fuel you use. While the Santa Fe doesn’t require premium fuel, using it won’t improve fuel economy enough to justify the extra expense.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 3.3L tends to fluctuate. Drivers report averaging closer to 17 MPG in combined driving, with highway numbers hovering around 22-23 MPG. A heavy load – passengers, cargo, or towing – will noticeably decrease fuel efficiency. Also, winter driving conditions, especially in areas with snow and ice, will further reduce MPG due to increased rolling resistance from snow tires and the added drag of the all-wheel-drive system constantly engaging.

How it compares

The 20 MPG combined rating of the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 3.3L places it in the middle of its class for that model year. A 2016 Toyota Highlander AWD with its 3.5L V6 offered a slightly better 20 MPG combined, but provided slightly less power.

A comparable 2016 Ford Explorer with the 3.5L V6 also achieved approximately 20 MPG combined, but often felt less refined. Buyers looking at all Hyundai fuel economy data during this era likely cross-shopped the Santa Fe with its smaller brother, the Tucson, which, in its front-wheel-drive, four-cylinder configuration, offered considerably better fuel economy, but lacked the Santa Fe’s spaciousness and V6 power. Keep in mind, you can also see SANTA MPG across all years. For buyers who needed three rows of seating, fuel economy tends to be a secondary concern relative to safety and space.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Maintaining proper tire inflation is one of the easiest ways to improve fuel economy. The recommended tire pressure is listed on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking will also contribute to better gas mileage. Avoid aggressive driving habits such as speeding, rapid acceleration, and hard braking. These actions significantly decrease fuel efficiency, particularly in city driving where you’re constantly starting and stopping.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying around excessive cargo adds extra load to the vehicle, which in turn requires more fuel to move. Remove any items from the vehicle that you don’t need on a regular basis, such as sports equipment or tools.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, especially in colder climates.

Use cruise control on the highway. Engaging cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy, particularly on long trips. However, avoid using cruise control in hilly or mountainous terrain, as the transmission may shift frequently, negating the fuel-saving benefits.