The 2017 Hyundai Elantra with the 1.4L engine gets 35 MPG combined. It won’t win any hypermiling awards, but that number reflects its mission: affordable, reliable, and economical transportation for buyers who prioritize value. This isn’t a sports car. It’s a commuter, a first car, a sensible choice for those focused on minimizing running costs. And for those buyers, 35 MPG from a comfortable, well-equipped compact sedan is a very good deal.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2017 Elantra Eco (as the 1.4L trim is known) at 32 MPG in the city and 40 MPG on the highway. These numbers are believable in real-world driving and reflect the engine’s sweet spot for fuel efficiency. The relatively small 1.4L turbocharged engine, paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (AM7), is tuned for efficiency. It provides adequate power for city driving while doing well on the open road. The AM7 transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient rev range, leading to those impressive highway figures. Avoid sharp accelerations and maintain a steady speed, especially on the highway, and you should be able to consistently match or even slightly exceed the EPA’s estimates.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra 1.4L is $1,250. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices at the time of calculation. Of course, your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and fuel prices in your area. However, the $1,250 annual fuel cost offers a standardized benchmark for comparing the Elantra Eco to other vehicles in its class.

Real-world expectations

The EPA estimates provide a good baseline, but real-world fuel economy can vary. Consider your driving style and typical routes. If you deal with a lot of stop-and-go traffic, expect your city MPG to be lower than the 32 MPG estimate. However, if you primarily drive on the highway with minimal traffic, hitting or exceeding 40 MPG should be achievable. Weather conditions can also play a role. Colder temperatures generally decrease fuel economy due to increased engine friction and the use of winter tires. Regular maintenance, like keeping your tires properly inflated and changing the engine oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, is critical for maintaining optimal fuel efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Elantra Eco’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. The Honda Civic, specifically the LX and EX trims with the 2.0L engine, typically achieve around 31 MPG combined. The Toyota Corolla LE Eco, another popular choice, achieves around 34 MPG combined. These numbers put the Elantra Eco right in the sweet spot. A Mazda3, renowned for its driving dynamics, achieves comparable figures to the Civic.

For buyers prioritizing less gas without sacrificing overall driving experience, the Elantra Eco offers competitive MPG at a typically lower price compared to its rivals. You can research ELANTRA MPG across all years at FuelEconomyHub.com.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 2017 Elantra Eco’s fuel-efficient engine is only part of the story. Your driving habits have a significant impact. Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The small turbo engine likes smooth, gradual inputs. Gentle starts and anticipating traffic flow will not only improve your fuel economy, but also extend the life of your brakes and tires.

Tire pressure is critical for maximizing MPG. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. A simple tire pressure check can noticeably improve your MPG, especially on longer highway trips.

Minimize your use of accessories like air conditioning, especially during short trips. The AC compressor puts a significant load on the engine. Rolling down the windows at lower speeds can be more efficient than running the AC, particularly on shorter drives. On the highway, however, AC is generally more efficient than having the windows open due to aerodynamic drag.

Keep your car properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements are essential for optimal engine performance and fuel efficiency. A poorly maintained engine will consume more fuel. Stick to the maintenance schedule outlined in your owner’s manual. For additional context consult all Hyundai fuel economy data.