The 2023 Hyundai Tucson AWD, equipped with its 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, achieves a combined fuel economy of 25 MPG. This figure might not set any records, but it’s a reasonable trade-off for buyers prioritizing all-weather capability and a spacious interior over top fuel efficiency. The Tucson, in this configuration, is for families and individuals who need a versatile vehicle for daily commuting, weekend trips, and hauling gear, and who are willing to accept fuel consumption that is about average in exchange for those benefits.

City and highway performance

Breaking down the EPA estimates, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L gets 23 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The city figure shows the Tucson’s performance in stop-and-go traffic, where the engine works harder and spends more time idling. The highway MPG shows its ability to maintain decent efficiency at cruising speeds, although vehicles with more advanced transmissions or smaller, turbocharged engines often do better here. The 8-speed automatic transmission does its job, but it’s not designed for ultimate fuel savings.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L at $1,750. They calculated this figure based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This number provides a benchmark for potential owners to budget their transportation expenses. Actual fuel costs will vary depending on individual driving habits, local fuel prices, and the specific mix of city and highway driving.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized estimate, real-world fuel economy can be different. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, carrying heavy loads, and even tire pressure can affect your MPG. Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA estimates with careful driving, but don’t be surprised if your average falls slightly below 25 MPG if you often encounter heavy traffic or drive mainly in the city. Owners who prioritize less gas can likely match or even exceed the EPA highway figure by accelerating smoothly, predicting traffic flow and minimizing braking.

How it compares

Within the crowded compact SUV segment, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson AWD 2.5L’s fuel economy is competitive but not the best. For example, the Toyota RAV4 AWD achieves an EPA-estimated 30 MPG combined in its standard form, a significant advantage for buyers seeking lower fuel costs. The Honda CR-V AWD also does better than the Tucson, typically getting around 29 MPG combined. However, the Mazda CX-5 with its standard engine achieves similar numbers to the Tucson, hovering around 24 MPG combined. Buyers often choose the Tucson over its more efficient rivals because of its styling, generous warranty, technology features, and often, a more attractive price. To get better fuel economy within the Hyundai lineup you would be looking at the hybrid or plug-in hybrid models of the TUCSON MPG across all years. See all Hyundai fuel economy data.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The Tucson’s 2.5L engine responds best to smooth, gradual inputs. Fast acceleration burns more fuel, so predict traffic flow and maintain a steady pace whenever possible. Consider using the “Eco” drive mode, if the vehicle has it. While it may slightly reduce throttle response, this mode optimizes the engine and transmission settings for better fuel efficiency.

Maintain proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. Tire pressure can change with temperature changes, so adjust accordingly.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for a long time uses fuel without moving the vehicle. If you expect to stop for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines are designed to restart quickly and efficiently, so you won’t cause wear by turning your car off for short stops.

Lighten your load. Carrying extra weight in your vehicle also affects fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk or cargo area. The less weight the engine has to move, the more efficiently it can operate.

Service regularly. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and air filter replacements, keeps the engine running efficiently. A clean air filter helps proper airflow to the engine, while fresh oil reduces friction and prevents wear. See your owner’s manual for the recommended maintenance schedule.