The 2018 Genesis G80 RWD with the 3.8L V6 gets 22 MPG combined. That number puts this Korean luxury sedan in the middle of its class, a tradeoff many buyers accept for the G80’s unique combination of value, comfort, and understated design. The G80 buyer isn’t chasing the absolute best MPG. They’re seeking a well-appointed, smooth-riding car with many features for the money, and they understand fuel costs are part of the experience. They want a car for long trips and a quiet interior, not necessarily sharp handling or hybrid-level efficiency.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 19 MPG in the city for the 2018 G80 RWD 3.8L. This number reflects the engine working harder in stop-and-go traffic, as the eight-speed automatic transmission shifts often. The G80’s weight also affects fuel economy, since it takes more energy to accelerate from a standstill. On the open highway, fuel efficiency improves to 27 MPG. Here, the engine settles into a lower RPM range, benefiting from the transmission’s overdrive gears. The G80’s aerodynamic shape also helps improve mileage at higher speeds, making it a comfortable and fairly efficient car for long drives.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,000 for the 2018 Genesis G80 RWD 3.8L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using the national average fuel price at the time of testing. Your fuel costs will change depending on how you drive, where you live, and current gas prices. However, the $2,000 provides a way to compare the G80 to other vehicles in its class. Potential buyers should consider this when planning their budget.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides standard testing, but real-world fuel economy can change quite a bit. Driving aggressively, driving short distances often, and extreme weather can all lower MPG. But accelerating gently, maintaining consistent highway speeds, and keeping up with maintenance can help drivers reach or exceed the EPA estimates.

Owners who want better fuel efficiency should watch their driving habits and track their gas consumption to get a better idea of their G80’s performance. Understanding how you drive and comparing it to the EPA estimates will help you improve fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2018 Genesis G80 RWD 3.8L is average for the luxury sedan group. The BMW 530i, for example, gets a combined 27 MPG (RWD model), which is better. The Mercedes-Benz E300, with its smaller turbocharged engine, offers a similar advantage. Those seeking all Genesis fuel economy data can compare it to other models like the larger G90. The Acura TLX V6 gets similar numbers to the G80, around 24 MPG combined in its front-wheel drive configuration. These differences are important to buyers who care most about efficiency. However, the G80 often offers better value, which makes up for some of the higher fuel cost. Potential buyers should also check the G80 MPG for all years to see if other models offer better efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Accelerate gently to improve fuel economy in the G80. Avoid hard starts and try to predict traffic to keep a consistent speed. The 3.8L V6 responds well to a light foot, rewarding drivers with better gas mileage.

Proper tire inflation is critical. Check your tire pressure often and make sure it’s at the recommended level listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which uses more fuel.

Remove extra weight. Too much cargo in the trunk adds weight, which makes the engine work harder. Remove things you don’t need to help improve fuel efficiency.

Avoid idling for a long time. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines can restart quickly, and idling wastes fuel without moving the car.

Try cruise control on the highway. Keeping a constant speed can improve fuel economy, especially on long trips. Watch traffic and adjust your speed as needed.