31 MPG combined is respectable for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L 4-cylinder, especially when you consider its quirky, sporty hatchback design. It’s aimed at younger buyers who prioritize style and a fun driving experience over outright efficiency. This isn’t a Prius competitor, and no one shopping for a Veloster expects it to be. Instead, the fuel economy is a sensible compromise allowing for a spirited driving character without breaking the bank at the pump.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2017 Veloster 1.6L with the automatic transmission are 28 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the smaller engine works harder to accelerate the Veloster’s weight. The highway figure, on the other hand, takes advantage of the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently at steady speeds. For drivers who do mostly highway miles, the 35 MPG rating represents a tangible benefit over larger, less aerodynamic vehicles. Driving style has a significant impact, aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will inevitably reduce fuel economy in both city and highway conditions.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2017 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L is $1,400. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. It’s a useful benchmark for comparing the Veloster’s running costs against those of other vehicles in its class. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific grade of gasoline used. While some owners might achieve slightly lower costs with careful driving, others may spend more if they frequently engage in spirited driving or live in areas with higher fuel prices. You can browse all Hyundai fuel economy data to see how this figure compares to other models in the brand’s lineup.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Some owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA figures, especially those who prioritize fuel-efficient driving habits. However, aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying extra weight can all negatively impact MPG. The Veloster’s sporty nature can tempt drivers to push the engine harder, which will inevitably result in lower fuel economy. Conversely, drivers mindful of their habits who take advantage of the car’s aerodynamic design can often meet or even exceed the EPA highway figure.

How it compares

In the compact hatchback segment, the 2017 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L stacks up reasonably well against its competitors. For example, the 2017 Honda Civic Hatchback with the 1.5L turbo engine achieves an EPA-estimated 34 MPG combined, a slight edge over the Veloster. The Civic’s bolder, more mainstream styling appeals to a different buyer. Similarly, the 2017 Mazda3 hatchback, known for its engaging driving dynamics, boasts a combined MPG of 32 with its 2.0L engine. The slightly better fuel economy of the Mazda3 comes at the expense of the Veloster’s unique three-door design and quirky personality. The Kia Soul, a boxier alternative, achieves around 28 MPG combined with its base engine, making the Veloster a more efficient choice for those prioritizing fuel economy. This comparison reveals that the Veloster’s fuel economy is competitive within its class, especially given its distinctive styling and emphasis on fun.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key to maximizing fuel economy in the Veloster. Avoid abrupt starts and allow the engine to build speed gradually. This minimizes the amount of fuel injected into the engine during acceleration, resulting in improved MPG. Pay close attention to the road ahead, anticipating traffic flow and avoiding unnecessary braking. Smooth, consistent driving is one of the most effective ways to boost fuel efficiency in any vehicle and VELOSTER MPG across all years follows this rule.

Regular maintenance is critical for optimal fuel economy. Ensure that your Veloster’s tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Keep up with scheduled oil changes and air filter replacements to ensure that the engine is running efficiently and breathing freely. A well-maintained engine delivers better fuel economy and performance.

Minimize unnecessary weight in the vehicle. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need on a daily basis. Extra weight increases the amount of energy required to accelerate and maintain speed, which reduces fuel economy. Reducing the load can have a noticeable impact, especially on city streets.

When possible, use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. Cruise control helps prevent unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, resulting in improved fuel economy. Be mindful of using cruise control in hilly terrain, as the system may downshift frequently, negating some of the efficiency benefits. The Veloster’s aerodynamic design is most effective at constant speeds, and cruise control helps maintain this.

Consider using the Veloster’s available Eco mode if equipped. Eco mode typically adjusts the throttle response and transmission shift points to prioritize fuel economy. While it may slightly reduce performance, it can provide a noticeable MPG boost, especially during city driving. Experiment with Eco mode to see if it aligns with your driving style and fuel efficiency goals.