At 22 MPG combined, the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.4L isn’t going to win any fuel economy contests. But that number needs to be understood within the context of what this vehicle delivers: all-weather capability, a spacious interior for five, and a relatively affordable price. It’s a practical choice for families in regions that experience snow or inclement weather who aren’t necessarily prioritizing ultimate fuel savings above all else.

City and highway performance

The Santa Fe Sport’s fuel economy breaks down to 20 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. The lower city rating reflects the demands placed on the 2.4L engine when navigating stop-and-go traffic. Drivers who spend a significant amount of time commuting in urban environments will likely see fuel consumption closer to the EPA’s city estimate. The highway figure, however, is more attainable on longer journeys at consistent speeds. The six-speed automatic transmission helps to optimize fuel efficiency at cruising speeds, but the all-wheel-drive system inevitably adds some parasitic loss compared to a front-wheel-drive equivalent.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.4L to be $2,000. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. It’s important to recognize that this is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and prevailing gas prices in your area. Aggressive driving, excessive idling, and using premium fuel when it’s not required will all contribute to higher fuel expenses. The $2,000 figure provides a benchmark for comparison, but individual results will differ.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures offer a standardized baseline, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Expect to see numbers close to the EPA estimates if you maintain a steady driving style and primarily drive on the highway. However, aggressive acceleration, frequent short trips, and consistent city driving will pull the average down. Weather conditions, particularly cold temperatures, can also negatively impact fuel economy. Properly inflated tires and regular maintenance are essential for achieving optimal MPG in any vehicle, including the Santa Fe Sport. User reviews and forum discussions dedicated to the 2018 Santa Fe Sport can provide further insight into real-world fuel economy experiences.

How it compares

The 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport AWD 2.4L faces stiff competition in the compact SUV segment. The Honda CR-V AWD, for example, achieves an EPA-estimated 27 MPG combined with its 1.5L turbocharged engine. The Toyota RAV4 AWD also boasts slightly better fuel economy, with an EPA rating of 25 MPG combined. Even the Nissan Rogue AWD, known for its above-average fuel efficiency in its class, manages around 28 MPG combined. While these competitors offer better MPG figures, they may come at a higher price or lack certain features that appeal to Santa Fe Sport buyers. Some buyers may also prioritize the Santa Fe’s slightly larger size and more conventional SUV styling over the more crossover-like designs of some competitors. Looking alongside all Hyundai fuel economy data, and you notice the similar vehicles Hyundai makes and their ratings, you can form a better picture than looking at just the Santa Fe Sport in isolation. And while you are comparison shopping, be sure to check the SANTA MPG across all years. Understanding the choices you have and what they provide is critical in making an informed decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and deceleration are key to maximizing fuel economy in the Santa Fe Sport. Avoid aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. The Santa Fe Sport’s 2.4L engine isn’t particularly torque-rich at low RPMs, so avoid unnecessary downshifts by gradually increasing throttle input.

Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure that your tires are properly inflated and that your engine is tuned up according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Clean air filters, fresh spark plugs, and properly lubricated components all contribute to improved fuel economy. A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently, resulting in lower fuel consumption.

Minimize idling time whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making it more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine than to let it idle. This is especially important in urban environments with frequent stops at traffic lights.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing unnecessary items from the roof rack and cargo area. Extra weight and wind resistance negatively impact fuel economy. Keep the vehicle as streamlined as possible to minimize fuel consumption. Also, avoid driving at excessively high speeds, as aerodynamic drag increases exponentially with speed.