Owners of the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL AWD with the 3.3L V6 get 20 MPG combined. No one buys this three-row SUV expecting Prius-like efficiency, but understanding the fuel economy is critical for budgeting and comparing it against competitors. These buyers prioritize space, passenger comfort, and all-weather security over ultimate frugality, making the V6 Santa Fe XL a practical choice despite its middling fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The Santa Fe XL’s EPA ratings break down to 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the toll of stop-and-go traffic and the demands on the 3.3L V6 to move the Santa Fe XL’s considerable weight. In dense urban environments, expect to be closer to the 18 MPG mark, especially with aggressive driving. Highway driving, however, allows the engine to settle into a more efficient cruising speed.

Achieving 24 MPG on long road trips is entirely plausible, assuming consistent speeds and minimal aggressive acceleration. The six-speed automatic transmission, while not the most modern offering, contributes to both city and highway figures with its established shift points. Factors like head winds, tire pressure, and cargo load will influence how closely you reach the EPA estimates.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Hyundai Santa Fe XL AWD is $2,200. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices for regular gasoline. Keep in mind that this is an estimate, and your individual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area.

The EPA formula assumes an even mix of city and highway driving, so adjust your expectations based on your typical driving environment. For those who primarily drive in the city with higher than average fuel prices, expect to exceed the $2,200 estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA ratings are a useful benchmark, real-world fuel economy often deviates. Many owners report figures hovering around the EPA combined number of 20 MPG, but aggressive driving or predominantly city use can easily drop that into the high teens. Then again, those with longer commutes and more highway miles could see slightly better results, possibly creeping up to the low 20s.

Weather conditions also play a role; cold weather, in particular, can negatively affect fuel economy. Ultimately, consistent monitoring and an awareness of your driving habits are key to understanding your Santa Fe XL’s fuel consumption.

How it compares

In the crowded three-row SUV segment, the 2019 Santa Fe XL’s fuel economy is somewhere in the middle. A comparable Toyota Highlander with its available V6 engine manages around 22 MPG combined in AWD form, offering a slight advantage. The Honda Pilot, another popular choice, achieves similar numbers to the Highlander. The Ford Explorer, depending on the engine, can range from noticeably worse with the older V6 configurations to slightly better with the later EcoBoost offerings (around 21 MPG combined for the 2.3L EcoBoost AWD). The Chevrolet Traverse usually sits around 20 MPG.

These comparisons matter because buyers are trying to balance space and capability with acceptable running costs, a compromise inherent in owning a larger vehicle. You can view all Hyundai fuel economy data to see how different models compare within the Hyundai lineup itself, or consider SANTA MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The 3.3L V6 provides ample power, but stomping on the gas pedal wastes fuel. Smooth, gradual acceleration is much more efficient, especially from a standstill.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling around extra cargo impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the vehicle, particularly heavy objects, to lighten the load and improve efficiency.

Plan your routes strategically. Avoiding rush hour traffic and construction zones can minimize stop-and-go driving, which significantly impacts fuel consumption. Opt for routes with consistent speeds and fewer interruptions whenever possible.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed using cruise control helps optimize fuel efficiency on long drives. Resist the urge to constantly accelerate and decelerate, as this wastes fuel.