Owners of the 2016 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8L get 19 MPG combined. This might be surprising to some in the market for hybrid SUVs and economy cars, but this vehicle isn’t for those focused on getting the most miles per gallon. The Genesis, even when it only had a Hyundai badge, appeals to buyers wanting a comfortable, luxurious sedan with the added security of all-wheel drive. Performance and premium features are prioritized over saving gas.

City and highway performance

The 2016 Genesis AWD 3.8L gets 16 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway due to several factors. The 3.8-liter V6 engine, while smooth and responsive, needs fuel to make its power. This is especially true with the added weight of the all-wheel-drive system. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly but has to work hard to manage the engine’s power in stop-and-go city driving. On the highway, the Genesis is more efficient when cruising, but its weight and shape keep it from getting excellent fuel economy. See GENESIS MPG across all years.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Genesis AWD 3.8L is $2,300. This is estimated assuming 15,000 miles driven per year, with 45% in the city and 55% on the highway, based on national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that this is an estimate. What you actually spend on fuel will depend on how you drive, the fuel you buy, and where you live, since fuel prices change by region.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Genesis owners who drive in heavy traffic, like to accelerate quickly, or live in hilly areas may find that they get less MPG than the official ratings. On the other hand, drivers who accelerate easily, drive at consistent speeds on the highway, and don’t idle much may get numbers close to or even above the EPA estimates. Regular maintenance, like checking tire pressure and changing the oil, is more important than you might think.

How it compares

The 2016 Genesis AWD 3.8L is somewhat competitive compared to other similar cars. For instance, the BMW 535i xDrive had similar performance with a slightly better EPA combined rating of 23 MPG. The Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC gets 24 MPG combined. The Acura TLX SH-AWD, which has a less powerful V6 engine, gets around 25 MPG combined. These differences could add up over time, but Genesis buyers are likely more focused on luxury, features, and value than absolute fuel efficiency. Buyers also consider that all Hyundai fuel economy data may not be quite as high as competing luxury brands, but are close enough to save a lot of money on the sticker price.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid accelerating too fast. The 3.8-liter V6 in the Genesis responds quickly and sounds great, but accelerating fast uses a lot of fuel. Accelerate gently and look ahead to anticipate traffic flow to save gas.

Keep your tires inflated. When tires are underinflated, they increase rolling resistance. This makes the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check and maintain the correct tire pressure, which is shown on the driver’s side doorjamb. It’s a simple way to save.

Don’t idle the engine. Idling wastes fuel. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines can start quickly and efficiently and don’t need to warm up for a long time.

Be careful when using cruise control. Cruise control helps keep a steady speed on the highway, but it’s not always the most fuel-efficient choice in hilly areas. The system can react slowly to hills, which causes unnecessary downshifts and more fuel use. It is best to use cruise control carefully on flat roads.

Try using “Eco” drive mode. The Genesis has different drive modes, including “Eco” mode. This mode changes engine and transmission settings to save fuel. It might make the throttle respond a little slower, but it promotes smoother acceleration and can improve fuel economy in everyday driving.