20 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for all-wheel-drive, V6-powered sport sedans, the 2018 Kia Stinger prioritizes performance and style over fuel efficiency. Stinger buyers typically understand and accept this trade-off.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 17 MPG in the city and 25 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the Stinger’s dual nature: comfortable for interstate cruising and fun on backroads. The 3.3L twin-turbo V6, with an eight-speed automatic transmission, provides power across the rev range, which affects fuel consumption, especially during spirited driving. Expect city MPG to drop in heavy stop-and-go traffic, but a disciplined approach on long highway journeys can help you reach or exceed the 25 MPG estimate. The responsive engine and quick-shifting transmission encourage drivers to explore the car’s performance, which is not conducive to maximizing fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $2,900 for the 2018 Kia Stinger AWD 3.3L. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, a mix of city and highway driving, and the national average fuel price at the time. Actual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits, local fuel prices, and gasoline grade. The Stinger doesn’t require premium fuel, but some drivers may use it for slightly improved performance.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard. Real-world fuel economy often differs due to driving styles and conditions. Stinger owners often report MPG near the EPA estimates, but adjust expectations to your driving. A heavy foot reduces fuel returns; conversely, conservative driving, anticipating traffic, and minimizing hard acceleration can yield results closer to the EPA’s upper range. Tire pressure, vehicle maintenance, and weather influence fuel consumption. See STINGER MPG across all years for more data.

How it compares

Fuel economy is often secondary to Stinger buyers, but it’s still a consideration. The BMW 340i xDrive, a direct competitor, gets about 25 MPG combined. The Audi S5 Sportback gets approximately 24 MPG combined. Both offer similar performance and all-wheel-drive, but the Stinger is a better value. Even the Acura TLX SH-AWD V6, with less power, only achieves about 23 MPG combined. The Stinger’s lower price compared to its German rivals justifies a slightly lower MPG to many buyers. See all Kia fuel economy data to explore the breadth of the brand’s offerings.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Pay attention to tire pressure. Maintaining the recommended pressure, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side door, minimizes rolling resistance and improves fuel economy. Regularly check pressure, especially during seasonal temperature changes, as pressure fluctuates.

Anticipate traffic. Avoid unnecessary acceleration and braking by looking ahead. Maintaining steady speed, rather than speeding up and slowing down, improves fuel efficiency on city streets and highways. Use cruise control on long highway stretches.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel. If stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern cars start up quickly, saving fuel, especially during city driving.

Consider driving mode when appropriate. The Stinger’s driving modes includes an Eco mode that prioritizes fuel economy by adjusting throttle response and transmission shift points. It may reduce performance, but benefits commutes when fuel efficiency is an important factor. Experiment with modes to understand their impact on your MPG.

Keep up with maintenance. A well-maintained vehicle is efficient. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tune-ups ensure the engine runs well. Neglecting maintenance decreases performance and fuel economy.