Buyers of a 2016 Hyundai Genesis RWD 3.8L must reconcile 22 MPG combined with the joy of owning a well-appointed, comfortable, and powerful sedan. Nobody mistakes this Genesis for a hybrid, and its fuel economy reflects that. It’s a car for those who prioritize space, a smooth ride, and a touch of luxury over efficiency, a calculated tradeoff.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2016 Genesis RWD 3.8L returns 18 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The difference between these figures highlights the engine’s characteristics: it’s happiest cruising at a steady speed, where it can use the 8-speed automatic transmission and its comfortable highway gearing. Stop-and-go city driving, however, forces the engine to work harder and exposes the inefficiency of a naturally aspirated V6 pushing a fairly substantial vehicle. Minimizing hard acceleration and braking will help fuel economy, and letting the Genesis loaf along at part throttle as often as possible is ideal.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Genesis RWD 3.8L at exactly $2,000. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, split roughly 55% city and 45% highway, using national average fuel prices. Prices fluctuate, and individual driving habits can dramatically impact the actual cost. $2,000 serves as a benchmark, a reminder of the ongoing expense of owning a car. View this information in the context of all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy varies. Some owners might consistently hit the EPA’s 28 MPG highway figure, especially on longer road trips.

Others, who primarily drive in congested urban areas, may struggle to reach 18 MPG. A lighter foot on the accelerator, anticipating traffic flow, and regular maintenance can all improve fuel efficiency. The type of gasoline used also plays a role. While the 3.8L V6 doesn’t require premium fuel, some owners report a slight increase in MPG when using higher-octane gasoline.

How it compares

The 2016 Genesis RWD 3.8L isn’t competing with hybrids. It’s squaring off against other mid-size luxury sedans. A comparable 2016 Acura TLX with the 3.5L V6 and front-wheel drive achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. The rear-wheel drive Infiniti Q50 with its 3.7L V6 returns a similar 22 MPG combined. A BMW 535i from the same year, with its turbocharged inline-six, offers a slightly better 24 MPG combined, but costs more. These comparisons highlight the Genesis’ position: it offers comparable performance and luxury to its competitors at a competitive price, but fuel economy is not its strongest feature. You can see GENESIS MPG across all years here.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key; the 3.8L V6 delivers plenty of power, but using it carefully will reduce fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive starts and hard braking. Let the car gradually build speed and anticipate traffic conditions to avoid unnecessary stops.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, found on the doorjamb or in the owner’s manual.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while stationary consumes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine. The Genesis’ start/stop system (if equipped) will automatically handle this in many situations.

Keep up with regular maintenance. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. This includes regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections. Following the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule will ensure performance and fuel economy.

Reducing weight and aerodynamic drag can improve fuel efficiency, especially at highway speeds. Removing unnecessary items from the trunk and avoiding roof racks or carriers when not in use will help.