22 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but for the 2021 Genesis G80 RWD 3.5L 6-cyl, it’s a reasonable compromise. This isn’t a hybrid, nor does it try to be. It’s a strikingly designed, powerfully motivated luxury sedan for buyers who want comfort, style, and road presence more than ultimate fuel savings.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the G80 RWD 3.5T are 19 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. In stop-and-go traffic, the G80’s twin-turbo V6 works harder to overcome its nearly 4,300-pound curb weight, resulting in the city figure. The highway number is better, showing the benefits of the smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission and efficient engine management at consistent speeds. Remember that hard acceleration and higher speeds will drop these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Genesis G80 RWD 3.5L at $2,650. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with a mix of city and highway driving, using gasoline at the national average price. Your fuel costs will vary based on your driving, local fuel prices, and fuel type (premium is recommended for best performance). Treat this as an estimate.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standard, but real-world MPG is more complex. G80 drivers often see less than 19 MPG in the city, especially in dense urban areas with frequent idling and quick acceleration. Hitting, or slightly exceeding, 27 MPG on the highway is possible. On longer trips without stops, it’s achievable. Your MPG depends on your driving style and environment.

How it compares

The 2021 Genesis G80 RWD 3.5L has average fuel efficiency for its class. The BMW 540i with its 3.0-liter inline-six, gets a slightly better 25 MPG combined. An Audi A6 with the 3.0T engine also does a little better, around 24 MPG combined. The Mercedes-Benz E450 with its inline-six turbo gets similar fuel economy to the BMW and Audi. A V8-powered Cadillac CT5-V will probably get lower MPG. Plug-in hybrid versions of the BMW 5-series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class get better gas mileage, trading some performance. You can find G80 MPG across all years for more comparisons. Buyers choose the G80 RWD 3.5T for its design, luxury, powerful engine, and value. Fuel economy is a factor, but not the main one.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the G80’s drive modes. “Eco” mode changes the throttle and transmission to prioritize fuel efficiency. Performance will be reduced, but this mode can help save gas in city driving. Regular maintenance is also key. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, and engine tuning and a clean air filter optimize combustion.

Avoid hard acceleration and braking. The twin-turbo V6 provides power, but speed uses fuel. Predict traffic, keep a consistent speed, and coast when you can. This driving improves fuel economy and the overall driving experience of the G80.

Use cruise control on the highway. Consistent speed reduces acceleration and deceleration, saving fuel. Cruise control may not be good in traffic, but is helpful on open roads. When safe, keep your speed down because fuel economy drops above 70-75 mph.

Minimize idling. Idling uses fuel without going anywhere. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern cars restart fast and efficiently. Exploring all Genesis fuel economy data may offer insights and comparisons.