The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate AWD with its 3.3L V6 gets 19 MPG combined. It’s a figure that won’t win any awards for lower fuel costs, but it’s likely not a major concern for the typical Santa Fe Ultimate AWD buyer. They aren’t prioritizing economy above all else; they’re after space, features, and all-weather confidence, and they’re willing to accept the fuel consumption that comes with those priorities. They need a spacious, comfortable vehicle for their family and possessions, and all-wheel drive provides that extra security during inclement weather. The Santa Fe’s mission is practicality and peace of mind, and fuel efficiency is less important.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Santa Fe Ultimate AWD at 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the engine working harder in stop-and-go traffic, frequently accelerating from a standstill. The 3.3L V6, while smooth and responsive, requires more fuel when constantly tasked with overcoming inertia. The highway number, however, shows a modest improvement. At a steady cruising speed, the engine isn’t burdened by constant acceleration, allowing it to operate more efficiently. The six-speed automatic transmission also contributes to this, selecting the optimal gear for highway speeds and keeping the engine in its most efficient rev range. The difference between city and highway underscores the Santa Fe’s design; it performs better on longer journeys where consistent speeds are more attainable.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate AWD at exactly $2,300. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a proportion of city and highway driving that simulates the average driver’s habits. The calculation also uses the national average fuel price at the time of testing. While your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving style, location, and the fluctuating price of gasoline, $2,300 is a benchmark for potential owners, allowing them to factor in the cost of fuel against the vehicle’s other benefits. A driver primarily sticking to dense cities will likely see costs climb, while someone doing extended highway runs may see lower expenses. It’s a starting point for anticipating the financial commitment of owning this specific model.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a standardized measure, but real-world fuel economy often deviates. Several factors influence the MPG you’ll actually achieve in your 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate AWD. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and carrying heavy loads will all negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, gentle acceleration, consistent highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you approach the EPA numbers. Terrain also plays a role; hilly areas will demand more from the engine, while flat terrain allows for more efficient cruising. It’s reasonable to expect results near the EPA estimates, but be prepared to see some variation based on your driving habits and environment.

How it compares

The 2018 Santa Fe Ultimate AWD’s fuel economy is similar to its competitors. A similarly equipped Toyota Highlander with AWD manages around 20 MPG combined with its V6, putting it slightly ahead. The Ford Explorer with its standard V6 engine and AWD also hovers close to the same 19 MPG mark. However, some competitors offer more fuel-efficient alternatives, such as the Honda Pilot which can achieve closer to 22 MPG combined in its AWD configuration. A four-cylinder equipped Nissan Murano is the best overall performer in the mid-size category at 24 MPG. For potential buyers, this difference translates to hundreds of dollars in fuel savings per year and it illustrates that while the Santa Fe caters to practicality, some prioritize efficiency even in this class. Consider fuel costs when cross-shopping and remember to explore SANTA MPG across all years for even more comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Santa Fe’s 3.3L V6 is responsive, but stomping on the gas pedal will quickly deplete fuel. Instead, adopt a smooth and progressive driving style, anticipating traffic flow and avoiding unnecessary hard braking. This approach will not only improve your fuel economy but also extend the life of your brakes.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Properly inflated tires also improve handling and extend tire life.

Minimize idling. Leaving the engine running while stationary consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, saving you fuel and reducing emissions.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying excessive weight puts extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel economy. Remove any unnecessary items from the trunk or cargo area. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to accelerate and maintain speed.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, minimizing fluctuations that can waste fuel. By maintaining a steady speed, you’re allowing the engine to operate at its most efficient point. Cruise control is particularly effective on long, flat stretches of highway.

Find all Hyundai fuel economy data to see how the brand’s other vehicles stack up.