Hyundai Achieves CAFE Number Early, Stands By Elantra MPG Claims

Jason Siu
by Jason Siu

Hyundai might still be under fire by consumers that aren’t having such stellar mpg results with their Elantra, but the Korean automaker had no problems announcing that they’ve achieved the 36-mpg corporate average fuel economy four years ahead of the US government’s rule for 2016.

Hyundai America CEO John Krafcik refuses to step down from the claim that the Elantra is able to achieve its 29/40-mpg claims in the real world, despite owners and even the media stating otherwise. Last month advocacy group Consumer Watchdog petitioned the EPA to re-test the Elantra while Hyundai has been reaching out to unhappy Elantra owners through its dealers to help educate them on their driving patterns and how to increase fuel efficiency.

“I don’t fully understand some of the accusations, but part of it is due to the fact we’re doing better in the marketplace now, and people are aware of and know Hyundai a little bit better than they did a few years ago,” he says. “Probably every car in every car maker’s lineup has people complaining about the real-world fuel economy they’re getting.”

[Source: Wards Auto]

Jason Siu
Jason Siu

Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.

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  • Thomas Thomas on Jan 15, 2012

    I drove a 2012 Elantra GLS Auto for extended amount of time on highway and got 44.x MPG with Eco button on and with and without cruise in metro area on I-5. I know it is possible. You have to embrace fuel economy just like buying a Hybrid vehicle. Just go easy on the gas pedal and you will be fine.

  • Angelo Milia Angelo Milia on Feb 08, 2012

    February 8, 2012 Dear Sir; I have a 2012 Hyundai Elantra Limited and I have owned this auto since January 31, 2012. I now have 675 miles. I cant reach your EPA 29 city and 40 Higway. I just changed fro a 2010 Prius.I have driven at 55M.P.H. in cruise for 85 to 120 miles going from Maine to Boston three times and the best is 34 M.P.G.. I'm a senior citzen as well. Please contact me. I'm not happy. Angelo Milia

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