The 2016 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L gets 31 MPG combined, which isn’t record-breaking, but it’s a reasonable trade-off if you value style and quirkiness over saving every drop of fuel. This isn’t a Prius, and no one seeking ultimate efficiency would consider a Veloster. It’s for drivers who want a distinctive hatchback with a sporty feel and are willing to use a few more gallons for that experience.

City and highway performance

The Veloster’s EPA estimates are 28 MPG in the city and 35 MPG on the highway. The city rating reflects the stop-and-go reality where the 1.6L engine and automatic transmission (AM6) work harder. On the highway, the engine can settle into a more efficient range, saving fuel. Consider your driving habits and location to determine if this car suits you. If you mostly drive in the city, expect to average around 28 MPG.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L at $1,400. This is based on 15,000 miles per year and national average fuel prices. Your actual costs will vary depending on your driving, local gas prices, and fuel type. However, $1,400 offers a good point of comparison.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are standardized, but real-world fuel economy often differs. Some drivers report slightly lower MPG, especially in tough conditions or with aggressive driving. Consistent hard acceleration will reduce your MPG. Driving smoothly and anticipating traffic can get you closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA estimates. The Veloster is fun, but that fun can decrease MPG.

How it compares

The Veloster’s fuel economy is similar to other sporty compacts. A 2016 Honda Civic Hatchback (with the 1.5L turbo engine) gets around 35 MPG combined, a more fuel-efficient choice. The Mazda3 hatchback, another popular option, achieves about 33 MPG combined, also slightly better. These comparisons show that more economical cars are available, but if you like the Veloster’s unique styling and asymmetrical door layout, the MPG difference might be a worthwhile trade-off. Explore all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Tire pressure is important. Keep your tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb). Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and reducing fuel economy. It affects handling too. This is a simple way to make the car safer and more efficient.

Avoid aggressive driving; rapid acceleration and hard braking use significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic and maintain a smooth, steady pace whenever possible. Imagine an open cup of coffee on the dash and drive so that you don’t spill it.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Extra cargo adds weight, which impacts fuel economy. Remove unneeded items from the trunk and back seats. Less weight is an old racer trick that applies to daily driving as well.

Limit idling since it wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine, especially on short trips, and when the engine is already warm. Modern starters are reliable enough to handle frequent restarts without issue. The savings add up. You can also see VELOSTER MPG across all years.

Use cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, which can improve fuel economy on long highway drives. Pay attention and be ready to turn it off when traffic changes. Cruise is more than just convenient, it saves fuel.