20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD with its strong 3.3L V6, it represents a reasonable compromise for buyers who prioritize space, capability, and a smooth, confident driving experience over outright fuel efficiency. This isn’t a vehicle purchased by hypermilers obsessing over tenths of a gallon; it’s for families needing to haul kids, gear, and the occasional light towing duty, all while feeling secure in inclement weather thanks to the all-wheel-drive system.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for this particular Santa Fe configuration. The city figure reflects the demands of stop-and-go traffic, where the V6 and all-wheel-drive system work harder to get the Santa Fe moving from a standstill. The highway number is more palatable, showcasing the engine’s ability to cruise efficiently once it’s up to speed. The six-speed automatic transmission contributes here, finding the right gear to balance power and fuel consumption. This split between city and highway emphasizes the Santa Fe’s role as a suburban workhorse, likely seeing a blend of both types of driving in its daily life.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,200 for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD 3.3L. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, and using national average fuel prices. Your individual fuel costs may vary depending on how you drive, where you live (fuel prices differ across states), and the actual number of miles you clock each year. However, $2,200 provides a standardized benchmark for comparing the Santa Fe’s fuel expenses against other vehicles in its class. You can find all Hyundai fuel economy data on our website.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a solid baseline, real-world MPG will inevitably fluctuate. Aggressive driving, carrying heavy loads, consistent use of the air conditioning, and even tire pressure can all influence fuel consumption. Owners report mileage generally aligns with the EPA estimates, perhaps slightly lower in predominantly city driving and marginally higher on long highway trips, especially when employing a lighter foot and using cruise control effectively. These are averages, individual results will always vary. You can also compare SANTA MPG across all years.

How it compares

The 2018 Honda Pilot, a key competitor, achieves a slightly better EPA-estimated combined MPG of 22 MPG in its AWD configuration with the 3.5L V6. The Toyota Highlander with its 3.5L V6 and AWD, similarly, lands at around 21 MPG combined. For buyers cross-shopping these vehicles, that 1-2 MPG difference might factor into their decision, but it’s unlikely to be the sole determining factor. The Santa Fe counters with its own strengths, such as potentially lower purchase price and a different interior and exterior design aesthetic. Someone prioritizing fuel efficiency above all else, might also consider the Nissan Murano, which can achieve around 23 MPG combined with its standard V6 and front-wheel drive.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Santa Fe’s 3.3L V6 is responsive, but stomping on the gas pedal constantly will needlessly burn fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated 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 PSI (pounds per square inch) found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine run while stationary for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles start effortlessly, and restarting consumes far less fuel than continuous idling.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary weight in the Santa Fe can negatively impact fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sporting equipment, tools, or other clutter. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed with cruise control can help optimize fuel efficiency on long stretches of open road by avoiding fluctuations in speed controlled by the driver’s right foot.