The Hyundai Sonata’s Active Eco mode reduces fuel consumption by up to 7% and preserves battery life by modifying the engine and transmission performance.

As of 2011, the Hyundai Sonata comes equipped with Active Eco mode as a part of its Drive mode suite. As opposed to sport mode, which boosts acceleration and increases horsepower, Active Eco mode slows acceleration and changes the transmission's shifting pattern. It even regulates the climate control system to conserve fuel and energy.

To learn more about the Hyundai Sonata eco mode and how it can help you limit fuel consumption, check out this guide from

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What is Hyundai Active Eco mode?

Hyundai’s Active Eco mode is one of the seven driving modes that come standard in new Hyundai Sonatas and other Hyundai vehicles. It was initially introduced to the Hyundai Sonata in 2011 and has since received praise for improvements to fuel efficiency.

Active Eco mode has two basic functions, which include:

Modifies your vehicle’s transmission response to limit harsh acceleration and increase fuel efficiency and battery life, and

Reduces power to your climate control system

When your Sonata is in eco mode, the transmission shifts to higher gears at a faster rate and takes its time before downshifting. This provides gradual acceleration and cuts the fuel supply during deceleration to conserve fuel. Eco mode will also regulate climate settings to reduce stress on the vehicle’s battery.

These two functions work together to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption in your Hyundai Sonata, which saves you money and can help your vehicle run efficiently. Since harsh acceleration and heavy-footed braking are both cut by Active Eco mode, it could even help to extend your Hyundai’s life!

Does Hyundai Active Eco mode save fuel?

Hyundai’s Active Eco mode can reportedly reduce fuel consumption by up to 7%, but it depends on how often you use eco mode versus the amount of time you spend in other modes, like normal or sport. You can keep track of your fuel consumption on eco mode by checking your digital instrument cluster and mileage display.

Does Hyundai Active Eco mode charge the battery?

Active Eco mode does not necessarily charge your Hyundai Sonata’s battery, but it does put less pressure on the battery which can increase its lifespan and power performance.

What’s the difference between Hyundai Normal and Active Eco mode?

Normal mode is the default driving mode for Hyundai’s Drive Mode system. This mode isn’t meant to save fuel, but it offers higher acceleration and speed with normal transmission and engine functions. If you want some extra power to your Sonata’s performance, you can boost up to the faster Sport mode, which increases steering precision and horsepower, plus delays gear shifting for higher RPMs.

MORE: Which Hyundai has the best gas mileage

How to turn Hyundai Active Eco mode on and off

You can easily switch Active Eco mode on and off by hitting the “Active ECO'' button to the left of your steering wheel on the control panel near the door. When you click the button, a green ECO indicator will illuminate on your dashboard, indicating that Active Eco mode is on. You can simply turn off eco mode by hitting the button once again, at which point the green indicator will switch off.

Is Hyundai Active Eco mode worth it?

Maybe, maybe not. Active Eco mode on your Hyundai Sonata could be worth it, but it depends on your driving priorities.

If your priority is conserving fuel, Active Eco mode is definitely worth it as it will impact your mileage and provide you with an extra bang for your buck at the gas pump. If you frequently drive in the city, you may not even notice differences in your ride on eco mode, making it a great option for city dwellers. Opt for eco mode if your vehicle’s health, efficiency, and fuel consumption are among your top concerns.

But if you're the type of driver who’s constantly on the highway or prefers a fast and smooth driving experience over fuel efficiency, you might be better off sticking to normal or sport mode. Eco mode will limit your speed, so you’ll have a bit of trouble reaching those satisfying high speeds on the highway.

Keep in mind that you can switch eco mode on and off to your heart’s desire, so if you prefer an extra boost of speed on the highway but want to take it easy on fuel in the city, the choice is yours!

MORE: All the best Hyundai compact cars

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How to save on Hyundai insurance

Saving on fuel with Hyundai’s Active Eco mode can be great, but what’s better? Saving on your Hyundai

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Oh, and did we mention the savings? On average, Jerry users cut over $800 from their annual premiums.