23 MPG combined won’t win any fuel efficiency awards, but it’s a figure the 2017 Hyundai Azera 3.3L V6’s target demographic likely accepts. Consider who buys an Azera: someone seeking a comfortable, spacious sedan that delivers a near-luxury experience without the premium price of a Genesis or Lexus. For these buyers, value is important, and that means balancing features, comfort, and price, not necessarily squeezing every last mile from each gallon. The Azera delivers a lot for the money, and the fuel economy, while unremarkable, is simply part of the overall equation. They’re prioritizing a smooth ride, quiet cabin, and user-friendly technology over fuel-saving.

City and highway performance

The Azera’s 20 MPG city rating reflects the realities of urban driving: stop-and-go traffic and frequent idling take their toll. The six-speed automatic transmission, while smooth in operation, lacks the fuel-saving gear count of more modern eight or ten-speed units. On the open road, the 28 MPG highway rating becomes more attainable, especially if you maintain a steady speed and avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.3L V6, though not turbocharged, provides ample power for effortless cruising and confident overtaking. This engine’s strength is its relaxed power delivery, providing enough power without needing to be pushed hard, unlike smaller, turbocharged engines that need to rev to deliver similar performance. Highway performance is adequate.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Hyundai Azera 3.3L V6 at $1,900. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate, and your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavy foot, you can anticipate spending more than $1,900 per year. Conservative driving and predominantly highway miles will likely result in a lower annual fuel bill. Don’t forget to check all Hyundai fuel economy data to compare the Azera’s fuel costs with other Hyundai models.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings provide a standardized benchmark, real-world fuel economy can vary significantly. Most Azera drivers average between 21 and 25 MPG in mixed driving conditions. Achieving the EPA’s 28 MPG highway figure requires disciplined driving habits, including maintaining a consistent speed and avoiding unnecessary acceleration. Expect city driving results closer to the 20 MPG mark, especially during peak traffic hours. The Azera’s comfortable ride and quiet cabin encourage a relaxed driving style, which can contribute to slightly better fuel economy. However, the vehicle’s powertrain allows only so much fuel savings considering modern driving conditions.

How it compares

The 2017 Azera’s fuel economy positions it competitively within its class. A 2017 Toyota Avalon, for example, equipped with its 3.5L V6, achieves an EPA-rated 24 MPG combined, slightly ahead of the Azera. A similar-year Buick LaCrosse with the 3.6L V6 gets around 25 MPG combined. However, these differences are marginal and unlikely to be a deciding factor for most buyers. Choosing a premium brand, like a 2017 Lexus ES 350, nets you around 24 MPG combined.

For the Azera buyer, the modest differences in fuel economy are likely offset by the Azera’s affordable price for a similar level of comfort and features. For comparison, consider viewing the AZERA MPG across all years to assess changes in fuel efficiency over time.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The Azera’s 3.3L V6 delivers its power smoothly and predictably. There’s no need to aggressively mash the accelerator pedal to get up to speed. Gradual acceleration not only conserves fuel but also contributes to a relaxed and comfortable driving experience, suited to the Azera’s character.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway. Using cruise control can help you maintain a consistent speed and avoid unnecessary fluctuations in throttle position, which can negatively impact fuel economy. Avoid excessive speeding, as fuel consumption increases exponentially at higher speeds.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing 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. You can use a portable tire inflator to maintain optimal tire pressure at home.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying unnecessary items in your trunk adds extra weight to the vehicle, reducing fuel economy. Take a few minutes to clear out any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment, tools, or extra clothing. Every pound counts, especially in city driving.

Plan your trips strategically. Combine multiple errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts and reduce overall driving distance. Idling consumes fuel, so avoid unnecessary idling, especially during cold weather. You can use a route planning app to find the most efficient route to your destination and avoid traffic congestion.