21 MPG combined is a reasonable, if unremarkable, fuel economy figure for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD with the 2.4L 4-cylinder engine. This isn’t a hybrid or a compact car; it’s a practical, all-wheel-drive crossover aimed at young families and active individuals who prioritize space, safety, and all-weather capability over ultimate fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe Sport, in this configuration, is for those who want a reliable and comfortable SUV without breaking the bank, and who are willing to accept mid-pack fuel consumption as a trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Santa Fe Sport’s fuel economy further, estimating 19 MPG in city driving and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban commutes, where the 2.4L engine works harder and efficiency suffers. The highway MPG, however, is more palatable. It suggests that on longer road trips, where the engine can settle into a comfortable cruising speed, the Santa Fe Sport can deliver acceptable fuel economy. The six-speed automatic transmission is reliable and gets the job done; it’s neither particularly refined nor remarkably fuel-efficient compared to newer 8-speed or CVT options. Fuel efficiency was not Hyundai’s top priority; if it had been, they would have tuned the transmission and engine software for more aggressive fuel saving.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.4L at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, using a national average fuel price. Of course, individual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, local fuel prices, and the actual number of miles driven annually. However, $2,100 provides a useful benchmark for potential owners to assess the running costs of this SUV. Consider this figure carefully if you are a high-mileage driver, as your actual fuel expenses could easily surpass this estimate.

If you are looking to compare, explore all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While EPA estimates provide a standardized comparison tool, real-world fuel economy often differs. Santa Fe Sport owners find that achieving the EPA’s 25 MPG highway figure is realistic, especially on long, flat stretches of road. However, the 19 MPG city rating can be optimistic, particularly in congested urban environments with frequent acceleration and braking. Expect the combined MPG to hover around the 20-22 MPG mark, depending on driving style and the percentage of city versus highway miles. Aggressive acceleration and frequent short trips will significantly reduce fuel economy, while a more relaxed driving style and longer journeys will yield better results. The AWD system also contributes to slightly lower fuel economy compared to the front-wheel-drive version, as it adds weight and requires additional energy to operate.

How it compares

In the crowded compact SUV segment, the 2016 Santa Fe Sport’s fuel economy is neither a standout nor a laggard. The Toyota RAV4, particularly in its non-hybrid forms, offers similar fuel economy, around 22 MPG combined for its AWD models. The Honda CR-V, another popular choice, typically achieves slightly better fuel economy, with some trims reaching 23-24 MPG combined. The Nissan Rogue, known for its emphasis on fuel efficiency, often outperforms the Santa Fe Sport, delivering around 26 MPG combined in its front-wheel-drive configuration. The Subaru Forester, with its standard all-wheel drive, lands in a similar playing field at around 22-23 MPG combined. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, the RAV4 Hybrid surpasses all of these options. The Santa Fe Sport buyer accepts its fuel economy because they require AWD for personal needs, and they understand that a larger cabin and other features come with a fuel-economy penalty. For additional comparisons, consult SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Minimize aggressive acceleration. The 2.4L engine in the Santa Fe Sport responds well to a gentle foot. Rapid acceleration consumes significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow, and try to maintain a smooth and consistent speed to avoid unnecessary bursts of power.

Ensure proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level as specified on the doorjamb sticker. This is a simple maintenance item that can yield noticeable improvements.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive weight in the vehicle reduces fuel efficiency. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area and passenger cabin to lighten the load. While AWD is beneficial, recognize that carrying around the extra weight and equipment will lower efficiency.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which optimizes fuel efficiency on long drives. It minimizes variations in throttle input and helps prevent unintentional speeding, both of which can reduce MPG.

Consider using a lighter grade of fuel on long highway drives. Some drivers report a slight improvement in fuel economy using higher octane fuel, especially when traveling for long periods at consistent speeds. Determine whether this is worth the extra cost based on the specific conditions you expect to encounter on your drives.