26 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards for lower fuel costs, but it’s a respectable figure for the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0L. This Sonata is for buyers seeking a balance: more power than the base engine, in a comfortable and stylish family sedan that still delivers good fuel consumption. They’re willing to trade a few MPGs for the added confidence when merging or passing, but they still demand reasonable economy for their daily commutes and weekend trips.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates of 22 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway show the 2.0L Sonata’s strengths and weaknesses. City driving, with its stop-and-go traffic and frequent acceleration, is where fuel economy suffers most. The automatic transmission (S6) works diligently to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but the laws of physics still apply.

On the open road, the 2.0L engine settles into a more relaxed state, allowing it to approach, and even exceed, the 31 MPG highway figure, especially on long trips with consistent speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0L at $1,700. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 45% of those miles driven in the city and 55% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. Remember that this is just an estimate; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices.

Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and premium fuel (though not required) will all increase your annual spending. A careful driver primarily covering highway miles at consistent speeds can very likely beat that $1,700 figure.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings are a useful benchmark, real-world MPG often deviates. Drivers of the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0L report figures that are close to the EPA estimates, and sometimes even slightly higher. The car’s relatively light weight and efficient six-speed automatic transmission help it make the most of its power delivery.

The Sonata’s comfortable ride and quiet cabin encourage a smoother, more relaxed driving style which translates directly into fuel savings.

How it compares

The 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0L competes in a crowded segment of mid-size sedans. The Honda Accord with its 2.4L 4-cylinder engine achieves 27 MPG combined, making it a slightly more efficient choice than the Sonata. The Toyota Camry with its 2.5L 4-cylinder achieves a combined 28 MPG, further widening the fuel economy gap. These engines offer less power than the 2.0L turbo found in higher trim levels of the Sonata.

For buyers who are considering the 2.0L Sonata’s balance of power and fuel efficiency, the base engine 2016 Sonata managed 29 combined MPG according to the EPA. The choice comes down to whether the trade-off in MPG is worth the additional power and performance provided by the 2.0L.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the 2016 Hyundai Sonata 2.0L. The engine’s turbocharger provides ample power, but using it frequently will significantly decrease fuel efficiency. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden bursts of acceleration to save fuel.

Regularly check and maintain your tire pressure. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Refer to the sticker on your driver’s side door jamb for the recommended tire pressure, and check it at least once a month.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or cabin adds to the vehicle’s load, which impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need for your daily commute or road trips to improve efficiency. Even a small amount of weight reduction can add up over time.

Use cruise control on the highway whenever possible. Maintaining a constant speed helps to minimize fuel consumption compared to fluctuating speeds caused by inconsistent throttle input. Be mindful of traffic conditions and disengage cruise control when necessary for safety.

Consider using the “Eco” mode if your Sonata is equipped with it. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. While it may make the throttle response feel less immediate, it can noticeably improve your MPG under normal driving conditions. You can find all Hyundai fuel economy data in our research section, as well as SONATA MPG across all years.