The 2018 Hyundai Sonata 1.6L gets 31 MPG combined. It’s not going to win any efficiency awards, but it works for buyers who want value, space, and a comfortable ride more than the best possible gas mileage. It’s a mainstream midsize sedan for families and commuters who want reliable, worry-free transportation and decent fuel economy without giving up features or practicality. The Sonata 1.6T delivers exactly what it promises.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the 2018 Sonata 1.6L are 28 MPG in the city and 37 MPG on the highway. The city number shows the challenges for smaller turbocharged engines in stop-and-go traffic. The turbo helps with low-end torque, but it can also increase fuel use when constantly accelerating and decelerating. But on the open road, the 1.6L engine shines. The tall gearing of the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission lets the engine cruise at low RPMs, which maximizes efficiency at highway speeds. The 37 MPG number is easy to get on long road trips, which is why the Sonata is a comfortable and relatively economical choice for racking up miles.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Hyundai Sonata 1.6L is $1,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Remember that your actual fuel costs may change depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you buy, and local fuel prices. Driving fast, frequent short trips, and using premium fuel will all increase your yearly fuel bill. But if you mostly use the Sonata for highway commuting and drive efficiently, your annual fuel costs may be lower than the EPA estimate. To see all Hyundai fuel economy data, you can browse our research.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a good starting point, real-world fuel economy can be different. Owners of the 2018 Sonata 1.6L often report numbers that are close to the EPA estimates, but sometimes a little lower in combined driving. This is mostly because of different driving styles and traffic. Expect to see closer to 26-29 MPG in combined driving if you take frequent short trips around town, and closer to 35-38 MPG on long highway drives. Keep your tires properly inflated, do regular maintenance, and avoid fast acceleration to get the best possible fuel mileage.

How It Compares

The 2018 Sonata 1.6L’s fuel economy compares well against its competition. The Honda Accord 1.5T, for example, gets slightly better EPA estimates of 30 MPG city and 38 MPG highway. The Toyota Camry LE gets an EPA-estimated 28 MPG city and 39 MPG highway, which makes it a little more fuel-efficient. The Mazda 6 with its standard 2.5L engine is rated at 26 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The Sonata 1.6T doesn’t lead in fuel economy, but it does well while often costing less and having a longer warranty than some competitors. Buyers who prioritize value often choose the Sonata, accepting a small compromise in fuel efficiency. You can also review SONATA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in the Sonata 1.6L works best when it shifts smoothly and efficiently. Avoid sudden, hard acceleration, especially from a stop, as this makes the engine work harder and burn more fuel. Gentle acceleration and predicting traffic will let the transmission select the best gear for fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure is important for fuel economy. Check your tires often and keep them at the recommended pressure on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which makes the engine work harder and reduces fuel economy. A simple tire pressure gauge can save you money.

Reduce aerodynamic drag by removing things from the roof of your car. Roof racks, cargo carriers, and even open sunroofs can significantly reduce fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Keeping the car’s shape as clean as possible helps it cut through the air with less resistance.

Don’t idle for too long. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s usually better to turn off the engine. Modern engines are made to restart quickly and efficiently, and the fuel saved by avoiding long idling can add up, especially for people who live in cities.