19 MPG combined isn’t going to win any fuel efficiency awards, but for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate AWD with its 3.3L V6, it’s what you can expect from a reliable and comfortable family vehicle. This isn’t a hybrid aiming for Prius-like efficiency; it’s a practical SUV designed to handle family duties in all kinds of weather, with some premium features.

City and highway performance

The Santa Fe Ultimate AWD’s EPA ratings break down to 17 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the realities of stop-and-go driving, where the V6 works harder to move the Santa Fe’s weight. The 22 MPG highway rating is better, but remember that driving at higher speeds, especially with a loaded vehicle, will likely decrease that number. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth, isn’t designed to maximize fuel efficiency. It prioritizes predictable shifts and comfortable cruising over using every possible mile per gallon.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,300 for the 2016 Hyundai Santa Fe Ultimate AWD. This calculation assumes 15,000 miles of driving per year, with a mix of city and highway conditions, using the national average fuel price. Actual fuel costs will vary based on local gas prices and personal driving habits. If your commute is mostly in heavy traffic or you frequently take long road trips, expect a higher fuel bill.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates provide a general guide, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Santa Fe owners often report numbers close to the EPA’s claims in mixed driving scenarios. However, factors like aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips (where the engine doesn’t reach optimal operating temperature), and carrying heavy loads can hurt fuel efficiency. On the other hand, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds can sometimes give slightly better than the EPA’s 22 MPG rating. Knowing your own driving patterns is important to predicting your actual fuel costs.

How it compares

The 2016 Santa Fe’s fuel economy is similar to competitors with comparable features. For example, the 2016 Toyota Highlander V6 AWD is rated at 19 MPG combined, the same as the Santa Fe. The Nissan Pathfinder 3.5L V6 4WD also achieves 19 MPG combined. Even the Honda Pilot manages only 20 MPG combined in its equivalent AWD configuration from that model year. Looking at the Ford Explorer with its base V6, the MPG is virtually the same. If you’re looking for a mid-size SUV with all-wheel drive and a V6 engine from this time, you’re probably looking at similar MPG regardless of the brand. For all Hyundai fuel economy data, start here. Or, explore SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Regular maintenance is important. Make sure your Santa Fe’s tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure, as low tire pressure increases rolling resistance and reduces fuel economy. A clean air filter helps the engine breathe easier, optimizing combustion.

Avoid aggressive driving habits. Rapid acceleration and hard braking use more fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow can really improve your MPG. This is especially true in city driving where the stop-and-go nature hurts efficiency.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines restart quickly, and prolonged idling wastes fuel. Think about this at long traffic lights, or when waiting to pick someone up.

Lighten the load. Carrying extra weight in your Santa Fe puts strain on the engine and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the cargo area and passenger seats. This is a common thing that can gradually impact MPG.