22 MPG combined in the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Ultimate FWD with the 2.0L turbo engine isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s a tolerable compromise for buyers who want a responsive engine and a well-equipped compact SUV over outright fuel savings. This Santa Fe Sport caters to drivers who appreciate a bit of pep in their daily commute and don’t mind paying slightly more at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway reflect the Santa Fe Sport’s driving dynamics. The city figure acknowledges the demands placed on the turbocharged engine during stop-and-go conditions. The 2.0L turbo provides ample power for merging and overtaking, but it does require more fuel when accelerating frequently. However, the 26 MPG highway rating shows the engine’s efficiency when cruising at steady speeds. The automatic transmission’s six gears help keep the engine in its sweet spot for highway driving, where efficiency improves.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for this specific configuration of the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport Ultimate FWD is $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel prices at the time of the calculation. This cost provides a benchmark for potential owners to compare with other vehicles they may be considering. Keep in mind that your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and current gas prices in your area.

Real-world expectations

Real-world fuel economy often deviates from EPA estimates. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads can all negatively impact fuel consumption in the Santa Fe Sport. Conversely, drivers who prioritize smooth acceleration, minimize idling, and maintain consistent speeds on the highway may see figures closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA estimates. The Santa Fe Sport’s trip computer can be a useful tool to monitor your driving efficiency and make adjustments to improve your MPG. Remember that tire pressure and regular maintenance also play a role in achieving optimal fuel economy.

How it compares

The Santa Fe Sport’s fuel economy positions it in the middle of the pack when compared to its competitors. The Honda CR-V, with its 2.4L engine, achieves around 28 MPG combined. The Toyota RAV4 also offers slightly better fuel economy, at approximately 25 MPG combined. On the other hand, the Ford Escape with its 2.0L EcoBoost engine delivers similar fuel economy to the Santa Fe Sport, emphasizing that the trade-off for a more powerful engine is often lower MPG. This comparison is crucial for buyers weighing performance against fuel efficiency. For those prioritizing maximum MPG, checking all all Hyundai fuel economy data can provide more insight. You can also research SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Santa Fe Sport’s turbocharged engine responds well to smooth and progressive acceleration. Avoid abrupt starts and hard braking, as these actions consume extra fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.

Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level found on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency.

Reduce unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Carrying extra cargo increases the engine’s workload, resulting in lower MPG. Remove any items you don’t need to improve fuel economy, especially during city driving.

Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency. Cruise control helps minimize speed fluctuations, which can waste fuel. Be mindful of road conditions and traffic patterns.

Schedule regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, to keep the engine running efficiently. A well-maintained engine operates more smoothly and consumes less fuel.