20 MPG combined is a reality check for anyone considering the 2023 Genesis G90 MHEV. This isn’t a car for the hyper-miler. This is a meticulously crafted luxury sedan, a rolling sanctuary of leather, technology, and quiet competence. Its target audience prioritizes comfort, prestige, and an exceptional driving experience over squeezing every last mile from a gallon of premium fuel. Fuel economy is a consideration, but not the dominating factor. The G90 is bought to make a statement, one of refined success, not necessarily lower fuel costs.

City and highway performance

The G90’s EPA estimates break down to 17 MPG in the city and 24 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of piloting a large sedan through stop-and-go traffic. The mild-hybrid system offers some electric assistance at low speeds, but its impact on fuel consumption in urban environments is modest. On the open road, the G90 fares better.

The twin-turbocharged 3.5L V6 settles into a relaxed cruise, and the eight-speed automatic transmission smoothly selects the most efficient gear. While 24 MPG isn’t groundbreaking for a luxury car, it’s an acceptable trade-off for the effortless power and smooth ride the G90 delivers on long journeys.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Genesis G90 MHEV at $2,900. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using the national average fuel prices. It’s crucial to remember this is an average; your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, local fuel prices, and the number of miles you drive annually. Still, $2,900 provides a benchmark for potential owners to consider relative to other vehicles in this class. This vehicle requires pricier premium fuel to achieve its optimal performance and fuel economy.

Real-world expectations

Expect to see figures close to the EPA estimates if you primarily drive conservatively. However, it’s easy to dip below the 20 MPG combined figure if you frequently indulge in the G90’s ample power. The twin-turbo V6 rewards enthusiastic driving with a surge of acceleration, but that comes at a cost. Aggressive acceleration and frequent hard braking will substantially reduce fuel economy. The G90’s considerable curb weight will also play a role in your real-world numbers, as will the terrain in which you do most of your driving. Ultimately, responsible driving practices are the key to aligning your fuel consumption with the EPA estimates.

How it compares

The G90’s fuel economy positions it squarely in the middle of its segment. The BMW 740i, with its non-hybrid inline-six, manages around 25 MPG combined. A Mercedes-Benz S500, with its mild-hybrid system, similarly hits about 24 MPG combined. The Lexus LS 500, another competitor, lands around 21 MPG combined. The G90’s 20 MPG isn’t class-leading, but it isn’t significantly worse than many of its rivals. What matters is the G90 undercuts many of these competitors in price while offering a similar level of luxury and technology, meaning its owners may be willing to sacrifice a little MPG to be saving considerably more on the initial cost of the car. Review G90 MPG across all years to see how this model compares to previous versions.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing fuel efficiency in any vehicle, but they are especially important in a large, powerful sedan like the G90. Avoid abrupt starts and stops to conserve fuel and reduce wear and tear on the braking system. Use the G90’s adaptive cruise control system whenever possible on the highway, as it helps maintain a consistent speed and minimizes unnecessary acceleration and braking.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially during significant temperature changes. You’ll find the recommended tire pressure listed on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb.

Reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Carrying extra cargo in the trunk or back seat increases the vehicle’s overall weight, which reduces fuel efficiency. Clean out any unnecessary items to minimize the load on the engine.

Plan your routes strategically to avoid congested areas and stop-and-go traffic, particularly during peak hours. Using navigation apps can help you identify the most efficient routes and avoid delays. If possible, consolidate errands into a single trip to minimize cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient than driving a warmed-up engine.

Consider the drive mode. While the G90 offers various driving modes, selecting the “Eco” mode can help prioritize fuel efficiency. This mode typically adjusts the throttle response and transmission shift points to optimize fuel consumption. Using “Eco” mode may impact performance and reduce the vehicle’s responsiveness. It’s worth evaluating to see if it works for your typical driving conditions and style. See all Genesis fuel economy data for a broader brand comparison.