The 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT with the 2.0L engine gets 27 MPG combined, which is adequate but won’t lead the pack. It’s a sensible compromise for drivers who value versatility and practicality more than maximizing gas mileage. This isn’t a Prius competitor, nor is it trying to be. The Elantra GT is geared toward buyers who need hatchback cargo space, enjoy some driving engagement, and want good value. They accept the fuel economy as part of the total package, knowing that excellent gas mileage often means giving up something elsewhere.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 24 MPG in the city and 32 MPG on the highway, giving a clearer picture of the Elantra GT’s fuel efficiency. The city rating reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L engine and six-speed automatic transmission work harder, increasing fuel consumption. The automatic transmission, while convenient, isn’t always the most fuel-efficient, especially in cities. However, the 32 MPG highway rating shows the Elantra GT can be reasonably economical on long trips, making it suitable for commuters and highway drivers. Knowing these separate ratings helps owners estimate fuel costs based on their driving habits.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT 2.0L 4-cyl at $1,600. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Individual fuel costs will differ based on driving style, local fuel prices, and actual miles driven. While $1,600 is a benchmark, owners should track their own fuel use for a more accurate idea of their spending.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are useful, but real-world fuel economy varies with driving habits and conditions. If you tend toward aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and carrying heavy loads, that can lower your MPG. If you drive smoothly and keep tires inflated, you can get closer to the EPA estimates. Owners often report figures slightly above or below the official numbers based on their situations. Check ELANTRA MPG across all years to see if newer models offer improved real-world efficiency.

How it compares

The 2017 Hyundai Elantra GT’s fuel economy is competitive among compact hatchbacks from that time, but not the best. The Mazda3 hatchback, for example, often gets better fuel economy, with some trims achieving up to 28 MPG combined. A comparable Honda Civic hatchback might get around 31 MPG combined. These small differences can add up over time. The Elantra GT is often less expensive and has a longer warranty than its competitors. A buyer prioritizing initial cost might find the slightly lower fuel economy acceptable. Be sure to check all Hyundai fuel economy data when shopping for a new or used Hyundai vehicle for more comparisons.

Tips to maximize efficiency

A gentle driving style is important for maximizing the Elantra GT’s fuel efficiency. Avoid hard acceleration and braking, as these use more fuel. Predict traffic flow and maintain a steady speed to improve your MPG.

Regular maintenance can change fuel economy. Keep your tires properly inflated, as low tires increase rolling resistance and reduce MPG. Also, regularly get your car tuned up and replace the air filter. A clean air filter helps engine performance and fuel combustion.

Reduce unneeded weight to use less energy. Remove anything from your trunk or back seat that you don’t need, because extra weight raises the engine’s workload. Emptying out golf clubs, sports equipment, or other unused items can create a visible difference over time.

Keep idling time short, especially in the cold. Modern engines warm up fast, so long idling is unnecessary and wastes fuel. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.

Plan routes to avoid congestion and minimize stop-and-go traffic. Using navigation apps to find the best routes can save fuel and reduce driving time. A few minutes saved on each trip adds up.