The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport FWD 2.4L 4-cyl gets 24 MPG combined. This isn’t going to win any hypermiling competitions, but it lands firmly in the acceptable range for a compact SUV designed for families prioritizing space and practicality over outright fuel efficiency. This is a vehicle for soccer practice, weekend getaways, and the occasional big box store run – not necessarily about saving gas.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Santa Fe Sport FWD with the 2.4L engine are 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. That city figure reflects the reality of stop-and-go driving, where the naturally aspirated 2.4L engine has to work a little harder to get the Santa Fe Sport moving. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t the most advanced when it comes to maximizing efficiency in urban environments.

On the open road, at a steady cruise, the 27 MPG is more easily attainable, especially if you’re mindful of your driving habits. That said, expect a drop if you frequently encounter hilly terrain or consistently drive above posted speed limits. Overall, if you are a city dweller, your fuel economy will likely be noticeably lower compared to someone who primarily drives on highways.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport FWD 2.4L is $1,800. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Of course, what you actually spend will depend on how much you drive, where you drive, and the current price of gasoline in your area. But this $1,800 benchmark provides a useful point of comparison when evaluating the overall cost of ownership.

For those clocking significantly more than 15,000 miles annually, or living in areas with higher-than-average fuel costs, this figure will undoubtedly be higher.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good starting point, real-world fuel economy is influenced by numerous factors. Driving style, traffic conditions, terrain, and even tire pressure can all impact your MPG. Santa Fe Sport owners who prioritize smooth acceleration and consistent speeds are more likely to achieve the advertised numbers. Conversely, aggressive driving, frequent idling, and neglecting basic maintenance will negatively affect fuel consumption.

Consider consulting online forums and owner reviews to gain a more realistic understanding of what other drivers are experiencing in similar conditions. These are invaluable in setting your expectations and better achieving the fuel economy that you are aiming for.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport’s fuel economy is neither exceptional nor disappointing. A similarly equipped Honda CR-V from the same year, for instance, achieves an EPA-estimated 28 MPG combined in its FWD configuration. The Toyota RAV4, another popular choice in the segment, typically posts around 25 MPG combined. The Nissan Rogue splits the difference at 29 MPG combined in FWD trim.

These differences, while seemingly small, can add up over time, impacting your long-term fuel costs. The Santa Fe Sport buyer is often willing to accept a slightly lower MPG for its attractive styling, spacious interior, and comprehensive features, frequently prioritizing value and overall cost of ownership.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key for the 2.4L engine. Avoid flooring the accelerator unnecessarily, as this will quickly burn through fuel. Instead, gradually increase your speed and maintain a steady pace whenever possible.

Keep your tires properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during temperature changes.

Minimize idling time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Excessive idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle.

Regular maintenance is critical. Ensure that your engine is properly tuned and that your air filter is clean. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, optimizing fuel economy.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoid congested areas and traffic delays whenever possible. Using navigation apps to find the most efficient routes can save both time and fuel.

Browse all Hyundai fuel economy data to compare this model to other offerings from the brand. You can also view SANTA MPG across all years.