If you work at Hanford, you know the daily drive adds up fast. Fuel costs and highway comfort matter more than most people think. The right vehicle makes a real difference — at the pump and on arrival. Hyundai’s SUV lineup is built with commuters in mind. It offers some of the best Hyundai fuel economy numbers in the segment. Options range from gas and hybrid to plug-in hybrid and fully electric. Here’s a breakdown of the top picks for each powertrain.
How Far Is the Commute? Tri-Cities to Hanford
Thousands of Tri-Cities residents make the daily drive to the Hanford Site. Depending on where you live, that commute can range from manageable to meaningful — and those miles compound quickly over a work week and a year.
| Starting City | Approx. Miles to Hanford (One Way) | Daily Round Trip | Annual Miles (250 work days) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richland | ~35 miles | ~70 miles/day | ~17,500 miles/year |
| Kennewick | ~45 miles | ~90 miles/day | ~22,500 miles/year |
| Pasco | ~50 miles | ~100 miles/day | ~25,000 miles/year |
*Distances are approximate and may vary based on specific work location within the Hanford Site and route taken.
At those annual mileage totals, Hyundai SUV fuel economy and drivetrain efficiency aren’t just nice-to-haves — they translate directly into hundreds or thousands of dollars saved every year.
Best Hyundai SUVs by Powertrain for Highway Commuting
Top 2 Gas Models — Best Hyundai SUV Fuel Economy
Tucson #1 Gas: Up to 38 MPG Combined
The Tucson leads the gas-only lineup with up to 38 MPG combined, making it the most fuel-efficient non-electrified Hyundai SUV for highway commuting. Its 2.5L four-cylinder is smooth and refined, and the spacious cabin with available heated seats and dual-zone climate control makes even a 90-minute daily commute comfortable.
Kona #2 Gas: Up to 33 MPG Combined
The Kona punches above its compact size with up to 33 MPG combined — one of the best ratings in the small SUV segment. It’s an ideal choice for solo commuters who want maximum fuel savings in a nimble, easy-to-drive package with modern tech and standard safety features.
Top 2 Hybrid Models — Best Hyundai Hybrid for Commuting
Tucson Hybrid #1 Hybrid: 38 MPG Combined
The Tucson Hybrid delivers an impressive 38 MPG combined — nearly double what a conventional midsize SUV achieves — with AWD available for added confidence in Eastern Washington’s variable weather. For Hanford commuters logging 22,000+ miles a year, the fuel savings over a conventional SUV are significant and add up quickly.
Santa Fe Hybrid #2 Hybrid: 35–36 MPG Combined
The Santa Fe Hybrid steps up in size and comfort while still delivering an excellent 35–36 MPG combined. It’s the choice for commuters who want more space, a more premium interior, and the ability to carry passengers or cargo on the drive home without sacrificing efficiency. Standard AWD on all trims adds peace of mind.
Top 2 Plug-In Hybrid Models — Best Hyundai PHEV
Tucson PHEV #1 PHEV: 77 MPGe · 32 mi electric range
The Tucson PHEV is a standout option for Richland-area commuters. With 32 miles of all-electric range, a Richland-to-Hanford commuter could potentially complete a significant portion of their daily drive on electricity alone — with the gas engine ready to seamlessly kick in for longer days. When running on gas after the battery depletes, it still returns 35 MPG combined.
Santa Fe PHEV #2 PHEV: 34 mi electric range · AWD standard
The Santa Fe PHEV offers about 34 miles of electric range with AWD standard — a compelling package for commuters who want a larger, more capable SUV while still taking advantage of at-home charging. If you can charge at work or at home, your daily fuel cost can drop dramatically.
Top 2 Electric Models — Best Hyundai Electric SUV for Commuting
IONIQ 6 #1 Electric: Up to 342 miles range · 151 MPGe city
Technically a sedan-style crossover, the IONIQ 6 is the most efficient Hyundai electric vehicle for highway commuting — with an EPA-estimated range of up to 342 miles (RWD) and one of the highest MPGe ratings of any EV on the market. Its 800-volt architecture means it can charge from 10–80% in as little as 18 minutes at a DC fast charger. For a Pasco commuter driving 100 miles a day, the IONIQ 6 handles a full day on a single charge with range to spare.
IONIQ 5 #2 Electric: Up to 303 miles range · 114 MPGe
The IONIQ 5 brings the same 800-volt ultra-fast charging architecture as the IONIQ 6 in a more traditional SUV form factor. With up to 303 miles of range, it comfortably covers even the longest Tri-Cities to Hanford commute and back. The spacious interior, available AWD, and a flat floor thanks to the dedicated EV platform make it one of the most comfortable Hyundai electric SUVs available.
Beyond Fuel Economy — Daily Commute Benefits
Great Hyundai SUV fuel economy is just the start. The features that matter most for a daily highway commute are also where Hyundai excels:
Highway Driving Assist 2:
Semi-autonomous cruise control with lane-centering keeps you relaxed on long stretches of SR-240 or I-182. Available on upper trims across the lineup.
Blind-Spot View Monitor:
Projects a live camera feed directly into the instrument cluster when you signal — a standout safety feature for merging on busy Tri-Cities highways.
Driver Attention Warning:
Monitors driving patterns and alerts you when signs of fatigue appear — important for early morning Hanford commuters in low-light conditions.
Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto:
Keep your phone charged and connected without cables on every commute. Available across most 2025 Hyundai SUV trims.
BlueLink+ Connected Services:
Remote start and cabin pre-conditioning means your car is already cooled down on a 105°F Tri-Cities summer afternoon before you even walk out the door.
Heated & Ventilated Seats:
Eastern Washington winters and summers both get extreme. Heated front seats are standard on many trims; ventilated seats available on upper models.
Ready to cut your commute costs?
Whether you’re looking for the best Hyundai SUV for highway commuting or want to explore Hyundai hybrid and Hyundai electric options that could dramatically reduce what you spend getting to Hanford and back, our team is here to help. Stop by or browse our current inventory and new Hyundai offers online.
The information provided is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of the information presented. Any action you take based on the context of this blog is strictly at your own risk. Always consult a qualified professional or specialist for advice specific to your situation. We are not responsible for any losses or damages arising from the use of this blog or its content.
Speck Hyundai of Tri-Cities
Address
2910 W. Clearwater Ave
Kennewick, WA 99336
Phone
- Sales 509-715-0565
- Service 509-715-0714
- Parts 509-715-0736
| Monday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Tuesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Wednesday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Thursday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Friday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 7:00PM |
| Sunday | 10:00AM - 6:00PM |
| Sales and Service will be closed 4th of July (07/04/2026) | |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| We will be closed Sunday April 5th for Easter. | |
| Monday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Tuesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Wednesday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Thursday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Friday | 7:30AM - 5:30PM |
| Saturday | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sunday | Closed |
| We will be closed Sunday April 5th for Easter. | |