30 MPG combined is good for the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 2.0L 4-cyl, especially for its subcompact SUV design. It’s a stylish, feature-rich vehicle designed to handle bad weather and light off-road driving, and that capability increases fuel consumption slightly. Kona buyers want versatility and city driving capability over ultimate efficiency, but still want good gas mileage.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Kona 2.0L AWD are 28 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. These numbers reflect its engine. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine is powerful enough for everyday driving, but it needs to work harder in city traffic, which increases fuel consumption. On the highway, its gearing and light weight help it achieve better efficiency. The six-speed automatic transmission also helps, with smooth shifts and optimized fuel economy at cruising speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 2.0L 4-cyl to be $1,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the EPA’s estimated combined MPG with the national average fuel price. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices, but the $1,450 figure is a standard for comparison.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates are a baseline, real-world fuel economy can vary. Aggressive driving, short trips, heavy loads, and using air conditioning can decrease fuel efficiency. Smooth acceleration, highway speeds, and proper tire inflation can help you achieve or exceed the EPA estimates. Kona drivers who drive in urban areas or challenging terrain can expect numbers closer to the city rating, while those who commute on the highway may see numbers closer to the 33 MPG estimate.

How it compares

In the subcompact SUV segment, the 2022 Hyundai Kona AWD 2.0L 4-cyl compares well in fuel economy. The Mazda CX-30 with its standard 2.5L engine and AWD gets a slightly lower 25 MPG combined. A Kia Seltos with AWD and the 2.0L engine matches the KONA MPG across all years. The Nissan Kicks, only available with front-wheel drive, gets a much higher 33 MPG combined due to its light weight and smaller engine. The Honda HR-V, another subcompact SUV, gets similar numbers to the Kona, with the AWD version delivering around 27 MPG combined. For Kona buyers, the slightly lower fuel economy of the AWD version is often worth it for the added confidence in difficult conditions, something that front-wheel drive competitors cannot provide.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Drive consistently to get the most out of the Kona’s 2.0-liter engine. Avoid fast acceleration and hard braking because these consume more fuel. Watch traffic flow and maintain a steady speed when you can. Using cruise control on the highway helps.

Check your tire pressure regularly. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check the sticker on your driver’s side doorjamb for the recommended tire pressure for your Kona. A tire pressure gauge helps any vehicle owner.

Reduce weight in your vehicle. Too much cargo increases the load on the engine, which reduces fuel economy. Remove items from your Kona that you do not need, especially heavy items.

Use the Kona’s drive mode selector to choose “Eco” mode, if available. This mode changes vehicle systems, like throttle response and transmission shift points, to prioritize fuel efficiency. It may reduce performance slightly, but it can save fuel, especially during city driving.

Maintain your Kona, including oil changes and air filter replacements. A maintained engine runs more efficiently. Follow the maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual to ensure performance and fuel economy. You can also compare all Hyundai fuel economy data on FuelEconomyHub.com.