35 MPG combined is what you get with the 2019 Hyundai Elantra equipped with the 1.4L 4-cylinder engine. This is a great feature for the practical, budget-conscious car buyer who wants reliability and low running costs. This Elantra is for commuters, small families, and everyday drivers who simply need a dependable car that won’t break the bank at the dealership or at the gas pump. For them, 35 MPG means savings and peace of mind.

City and highway performance

The EPA breaks down the Elantra’s fuel economy further, and the split between city (32 MPG) and highway (40 MPG) driving tells us more. The 32 MPG city figure is respectable, which means the 1.4L engine and seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission work well in stop-and-go traffic. The dual-clutch helps to maintain optimum engine speed, increasing efficiency in urban environments. The Elantra truly shines with its 40 MPG highway rating. It’s positioned for long commutes and road trips, and offers good range and few fuel stops. The combination makes it an efficient overall package.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Elantra 1.4L at $1,250. This is calculated based on 15,000 miles of driving per year, using national average fuel prices at the time of the EPA’s testing. It’s a valuable point of comparison, allowing potential buyers to easily compare the Elantra’s running costs to other vehicles. Individual fuel costs will vary based on driving habits and local gas prices, but the $1,250 provides a useful estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA figures offer a consistent measuring stick, but real-world mileage can change. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and extreme weather can negatively impact fuel economy. However, drivers who adopt an economical driving style and maintain their vehicle properly can often match or exceed the EPA estimates. The 1.4L Elantra does well with gentle acceleration and consistent speeds. Some drivers have reported seeing numbers closer to 45 MPG on the highway when traveling at a steady pace.

How it compares

The Elantra’s fuel economy is good for the compact sedan segment. The Toyota Corolla LE with its 1.8L engine achieves a combined 34 MPG. The Honda Civic LX with its 2.0L engine reaches a combined 33 MPG. Even the Nissan Sentra, often considered a strong competitor, only manages 32 MPG combined in its base S trim with the 2.0L engine. This Elantra results in dollars saved at the pump. This is significant for buyers who are basing their decision on long term economy and value.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The dual-clutch transmission in the Elantra 1.4L is programmed for efficiency, so avoid aggressive acceleration, which forces the transmission to downshift frequently and uses more fuel. Smooth inputs will allow the car to stay in higher gears for longer, maximizing MPG. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed. This minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can significantly impact fuel consumption on long drives.

Tire pressure is also critical. Make sure that your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Checking tire pressure helps improve fuel numbers.

Avoid carrying extra weight in the vehicle. Extra cargo adds to the overall load the engine must pull, decreasing efficiency. Remove any items from the trunk or backseat that you don’t need.

Regular maintenance is important for fuel economy. Ensure that your engine is properly tuned and that the air filter is clean. A dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing its efficiency. Explore all Hyundai fuel economy data to see how this model compares to others. Check ELANTRA MPG across all years to get a complete picture.

Consider using the “Eco” mode, if equipped. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. It softens throttle response and encourages earlier upshifts, increasing MPG, so it can be helpful in the city.