The 2020 Genesis G80 AWD with the 3.8L V6 gets 20 MPG combined. This isn’t a fuel sipper. It’s a mid-size luxury sedan designed for comfort, space, and effortless performance. Buyers choosing this specific G80 configuration prioritize all-weather confidence and the smooth power delivery of a naturally aspirated six-cylinder engine over getting the best gas mileage. They understand the tradeoff and are generally willing to accept it.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 18 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway for this G80. These figures reflect urban stop-and-go driving, where the engine spends more time idling or accelerating from a standstill, versus the constant speeds achievable on the open road. The eight-speed automatic transmission helps reduce some inefficiencies, but the 3.8L V6 needs fuel to produce its 311 horsepower. The highway number is more acceptable, making longer journeys less painful at the pump, but the city figure will likely define the overall ownership experience for many.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Genesis G80 AWD 3.8L is $2,200. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is just an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on driving habits, the types of roads you drive on, and local fuel prices. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips in cold weather, and consistently using premium fuel will all increase that number.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, your mileage may vary, often significantly. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates in real-world conditions, especially if you spend time in congested city traffic. Cold weather can also negatively impact fuel economy, as can aggressive driving habits. However, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds could yield results closer to, or even slightly above, the EPA’s 24 MPG highway estimate.

How it compares

The G80’s fuel economy places it in the middle of its competitors. A similarly equipped BMW 540i xDrive, with its turbocharged inline-six, achieves an EPA-estimated 25 MPG combined. An Audi A6 with its 3.0-liter V6 manages around 24 MPG combined. On the other hand, a Mercedes-Benz E 350 4Matic, with a smaller turbocharged four-cylinder, delivers about 25 MPG as well. These numbers highlight the G80’s relative thirst. The other cars use forced induction for similar levels of performance, yet the G80 still offers a better price. Understanding that fuel economy is not a strength of this specific G80 configuration is important for potential buyers. They can compare G80 MPG across all years to see how newer models or different engines fare, or review all Genesis fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While you can’t alter the inherent fuel consumption of the G80 3.8L, there are things you can do to optimize efficiency. First, adopt a smoother driving style. Avoid hard acceleration and braking. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed. The G80’s comfortable ride encourages a relaxed driving style, so embrace it and save fuel.

Second, ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which negatively impacts fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended level, found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Third, minimize unnecessary weight. Don’t treat your G80 as a storage unit. Remove any clutter from the trunk and passenger cabin. Extra weight requires more energy to accelerate and maintain speed, resulting in more gas consumption.

Fourth, take advantage of the G80’s drive modes. Select the “Eco” mode when appropriate. This mode adjusts the engine and transmission settings to prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. It might slightly reduce responsiveness, but it can make a noticeable difference in fuel consumption during everyday driving.