21 MPG combined won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, but for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe FWD 3.3L 6-cyl, it’s a practical compromise between passenger space, reasonable power, and acceptable running costs. This Santa Fe isn’t trying to be a hybrid; it’s designed for families who need a reliable, comfortable, and relatively affordable mid-size SUV without sacrificing the smoother performance of a V6 engine.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Santa Fe FWD 3.3L are 18 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Santa Fe’s weight and traditional automatic transmission affect fuel economy. However, the 25 MPG highway rating is respectable and achievable during steady cruising, showing the engine’s efficiency when it’s not constantly accelerating. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern compared to some eight or nine-speed units in newer vehicles, is well-suited to the engine’s power band and provides smooth, predictable shifts.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe FWD 3.3L 6-cyl at $2,100. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for comparing the Santa Fe’s running costs to competing SUVs. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you typically drive on, and fluctuating gas prices.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides standardized figures, real-world MPG can vary significantly. Santa Fe drivers who frequently haul cargo or passengers, or who live in areas with hilly terrain, may see fuel economy closer to the low end of the EPA’s range. Conversely, those who prioritize highway driving and practice efficient driving habits may be able to achieve or even slightly exceed the 25 MPG highway rating. Santa Fe owners generally find the EPA estimates are realistic, but require mindful driving to achieve consistently.

How it compares

The 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe FWD 3.3L is in a competitive segment. A 2017 Toyota Highlander with its standard V6 engine achieves a slightly better 22 MPG combined. The Honda Pilot, known for its efficiency, also posts a 22 MPG combined rating for its FWD models. Even the Nissan Pathfinder, often prioritizing space and towing capacity, manages a 20 MPG combined rating for its FWD variants around this model year. For buyers who prioritize a V6 engine, the Santa Fe’s fuel economy is within the expected range, but other options offer negligibly better figures. You can discover more details at all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Santa Fe’s V6 provides ample power for merging and passing, but stomping on the gas pedal will quickly drain the tank. Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic flow to minimize hard acceleration and braking. This is ESPECIALLY true off the line, where the V6 loves to give you power but is wasteful.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb. Buy a decent tire pressure gauge; the accuracy of gas station air pumps varies incredibly.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo in your Santa Fe adds weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need to carry regularly, such as sports equipment, tools, or extra supplies. Every pound counts, and the Santa Fe isn’t exactly a lightweight to begin with.

Consider using cruise control on highway drives. Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel economy on long trips. However, be mindful of hilly terrain, where cruise control may cause the vehicle to downshift frequently, negating any potential fuel savings. Use the “trip” fuel economy display on the dash to educate yourself about situations where cruise control helps or hurts. Don’t forget to also check SANTA MPG across all years

Keep up with routine maintenance. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups will help ensure your Santa Fe’s engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and performs better overall. Don’t skip services!