24 MPG combined isn’t going to win any hypermiling awards, but for the 2019 Kia Stinger AWD 2.0L 4-cyl, it shows what the priorities are. This isn’t a car bought for pure fuel savings; it’s a stylish, comfortable, and capable sport sedan with all-weather confidence. The target buyer wants a blend of performance, practicality, and panache, and they’re willing to accept middling fuel economy to get it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates rate the 2019 Kia Stinger AWD 2.0L at 21 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects stop-and-go driving, where the Stinger’s weight and inefficiencies of an internal combustion engine take their toll. The highway number is more respectable, showcasing the benefits of the eight-speed automatic transmission which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. Many owners find themselves frequently using more throttle on the open road, offsetting some of the theoretical MPG gains. The all-wheel-drive system adds to the car’s stability and grip, and also lowers fuel economy compared to its rear-wheel-drive version.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2019 Kia Stinger AWD 2.0L 4-cyl is approximately $2,400. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. The actual amount you spend will depend on your individual driving habits, the fuel you use, and local gas prices. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and opting for premium fuel (though not required) will all increase your yearly fuel expenses. You can find all Kia fuel economy data on various models here.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, real-world MPG often changes based on driving style, road conditions, and maintenance. Stinger owners report numbers that vary from the EPA estimates. Those who prioritize efficiency and drive conservatively often achieve figures close to or even slightly exceeding the highway rating. Drivers with a heavier foot and a penchant for spirited driving may find themselves closer to the city MPG, or even lower. Tire pressure, vehicle load and using the car’s selectable drive modes can also influence your fuel consumption.

How it compares

In the sport sedan market, the 2019 Kia Stinger AWD 2.0L’s fuel economy is middle-of-the-road. The Acura TLX 2.4L with front-wheel drive manages around 28 MPG combined, showing the fuel savings gained with front-wheel drive. The BMW 330i xDrive, a direct competitor in terms of performance and luxury, achieves a similar 28 MPG combined, demonstrating that efficiency isn’t always lost for refinement. The VW Arteon 2.0T 4Motion also comes in at around 25 MPG combined, underscoring the realities of all-wheel-drive sport sedans in this segment. This comparison helps the Stinger buyer because it illustrates that while the Kia is not the most efficient choice, it offers a blend of attributes that justify its fuel consumption, particularly for its price. Users who want to investigate STINGER MPG across all years should find the information contained here useful.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Using the “Eco” drive mode can make a difference, especially during city driving. This mode remaps the throttle response and adjusts the transmission shift points to prioritize fuel efficiency over outright performance. It might slightly dampen the car’s sporty feel, but it’s a worthwhile tradeoff when commuting or encountering heavy traffic.

Make sure that your tires are properly inflated and aligned. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Regular alignment checks prevent uneven tire wear and further optimize fuel economy. The sticker on the driver’s side doorjamb indicates the recommended tire pressure.

Avoid unnecessary idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turning off the engine can save a significant amount of fuel, especially during city driving. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, making it easy to conserve fuel in these situations.

Minimize aggressive acceleration and hard braking. These driving habits consume a disproportionate amount of fuel. Anticipate traffic flow, maintain a safe following distance, and accelerate smoothly to maximize efficiency. A softer touch on both pedals will yield improvements in MPG.

Consider lighter wheels and tires when it’s time for replacement. Reducing the unsprung weight of the vehicle can improve both handling and fuel economy. Look for aftermarket wheels and tires that are lighter and more aerodynamic than the factory equipment. Every little bit helps.