30 MPG combined is respectable for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L, especially considering what it’s designed for. It’s not a Prius competitor focused solely on squeezing every last mile from a gallon. It’s a quirky, fun-to-drive hatchback that doesn’t punish you at the pump. Buyers prioritize style and driving enjoyment, and the Veloster delivers acceptable, if not class-leading, fuel consumption.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2021 Veloster 1.6L at 28 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. These figures are fairly representative of what you can expect in typical driving conditions. The 1.6L engine, while not a powerhouse, is responsive enough for urban environments, and the seven-speed automatic transmission helps keep the revs low on the open road, contributing to the decent highway number. The Veloster is small and light, benefitting from low rolling resistance, so don’t be misled into thinking you’ll obtain numbers of larger slower vehicles offering similar MPG. The Veloster is engineered for efficiency, whereas other vehicles simply add efficiency as an engineering improvement.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L at $1,450. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This is a useful benchmark for comparing running costs against other vehicles. Remember that your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on, and the price of gasoline in your area. Expect to pay more if you consistently drive aggressively or spend most of your time in stop-and-go traffic. If you drive primarily on the highway and practice efficient driving techniques, you could potentially beat this estimate.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a good baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Owners of the 2021 Veloster 1.6L typically report figures in the high 20s to low 30s in mixed driving. Those with a lighter foot and predominantly highway miles often see numbers closer to, or even slightly exceeding, the EPA’s 34 MPG highway estimate. Keep in mind that driving style and environmental factors play a significant role. Aggressive acceleration, frequent braking, and cold weather can all negatively impact your fuel economy. You can view VELOSTER MPG across all years, not just this single year, to help inform your expectations.

How it compares

The fuel economy of the 2021 Hyundai Veloster 1.6L stacks up reasonably well against its competitors, but it’s not a class leader. For example, a comparable Honda Civic Hatchback with the 1.5L turbo engine achieves around 31 MPG combined. Certain trims of the Toyota Corolla Hatchback can reach up to 35 MPG combined, offering a slight advantage in fuel efficiency. A Mazda3 Hatchback sits in a similar range, with EPA estimates hovering around 28 MPG combined for models with the 2.5L engine. The Kia Forte5, essentially a Veloster competitor from within Hyundai’s own corporate family, delivers similar MPG figures. Ultimately, the Veloster buyer likely accepts this level of fuel economy in exchange for the unique styling and sporty handling that define the car. The funky VELOSTER is about so much more than low running costs. See all Hyundai fuel economy data for a wider context.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. The Veloster’s 1.6L engine doesn’t need to be pushed hard to deliver adequate performance. Smooth, gradual acceleration and anticipating traffic flow will help reduce fuel consumption significantly. This car isn’t fast, but it offers a fun-to-drive quirkiness that entices enthusiasts, so it can be difficult to restrain yourself and drive efficiently.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy and increases wear and tear. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra cargo in your car adds weight, which requires more energy to move. Remove any items you don’t need to improve your Veloster’s fuel efficiency. This can be hard to avoid, however, if you are using this car for its intended purpose, to haul gear, transport friends, and manage equipment in your artistic endeavors.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a constant speed helps to optimize fuel economy. Cruise control can help you avoid unintentional speeding and maintain a steady pace, particularly on long trips. Note that sometimes cruise control can perform poorly in hilly terrain, so observe your MPG closely.

Consider using the Eco drive mode if equipped. Many modern vehicles, including some Veloster trims, offer an Eco mode that optimizes engine and transmission settings for fuel efficiency. While it might slightly reduce performance, it can result in noticeable fuel savings, especially on longer journeys, and can ensure you have maximum range during road trips with sparse fuel options.