With 27 MPG combined from its turbocharged 1.6L four-cylinder, the 2016 Hyundai Tucson is an acceptable choice for buyers who value affordability and practicality more than ultimate fuel savings. It’s not class-leading, but it’s a reasonable compromise where space, features, and price often matter more than Prius-level economy. This Tucson appeals to small families, young professionals, and empty-nesters seeking a versatile and affordable crossover, and its mileage suits this purpose.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Tucson’s EPA ratings break down to 25 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the small-displacement turbo engine can sometimes feel strained, leading to increased fuel consumption. The highway number represents a more relaxed cruising speed, allowing the Tucson’s powertrain to operate closer to its efficiency sweet spot. Drivers who spend most of their time on the open road will likely see numbers closer to, or potentially exceeding, 30 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Tucson at $1,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual amount you spend on fuel will vary depending on your driving habits and the price of gasoline in your area. However, the $1,600 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Tucson’s operating costs to those of other vehicles in its class. Consider this alongside other factors like insurance, maintenance, and potential repair costs before making a final decision.

Real-world expectations

EPA ratings are helpful for comparison, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Some owners report figures slightly below the combined 27 MPG, particularly those who frequently drive in congested urban areas or drive aggressively. Conservative drivers who value fuel efficiency and spend considerable time on the highway should reliably see numbers meeting, or even exceeding, the EPA estimates. Understanding your own driving style and how it impacts fuel consumption is key. A light foot, proper tire inflation, and regular maintenance can all improve mileage. You’ll find TUCSON MPG across all years on our site.

How it compares

The 2016 Tucson’s fuel economy is in the middle of its competitive set. For example, the Mazda CX-5 with its naturally aspirated 2.0L engine achieves around 29 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage. The Honda CR-V, another strong contender, delivers similar combined figures for that model year in its base configuration, but with a slightly less sporty driving experience. Some competitors, particularly those with older engine technologies or larger engines, may struggle to match the Tucson’s 27 MPG. The Jeep Compass, for example, can lag behind, especially in four-wheel-drive configurations. The Nissan Rogue offers comparable MPG figures, but the models tend to be equipped with more fuel-efficient engines in higher trim configurations. Buyers who value less gas above all else might consider the CX-5, but the Tucson balances economy, features, and value. You can also see all Hyundai fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Tucson’s 1.6L turbo benefits from smooth and gradual acceleration. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking, as these habits drastically reduce fuel economy. The turbocharger, while providing a boost in power, can also lead to increased fuel consumption if used excessively. Instead, focus on maintaining a consistent speed and anticipating traffic flow.

Regular maintenance is critical for ensuring good fuel efficiency. Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as underinflated tires create more rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Also, ensure that your air filter is clean, as a clogged filter restricts airflow to the engine and reduces performance.

The automatic transmission in the 2016 Tucson is designed to maximize fuel economy, but it can sometimes be programmed to shift unnecessarily. Familiarize yourself with the various drive modes (if equipped) and experiment to find the one that best suits your driving style and road conditions. Manually shifting can help you maintain the optimal gear and avoid unnecessary downshifts in some situations.

Minimize the use of accessories that place a heavy load on the engine, such as air conditioning, especially during short trips. Air conditioning can substantially decrease fuel economy, so consider using the fan or opening windows when weather permits.