Find the perfect fuel-sipping SUV for your needs, from compact crossovers to luxurious electric and hybrid options, with our expert guide to the best MPG in SUVs.
Top Fuel-Efficient SUVs
When it comes to fuel efficiency, SUVs are often at the bottom of the list. However, with the rising demand for eco-friendly vehicles, manufacturers have been working hard to create SUVs that are not only spacious and comfortable but also gentle on the wallet and the environment. In this section, we’ll explore the top fuel-efficient SUVs that will get you where you need to go without breaking the bank.
Hybrid Options
Hybrid SUVs have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. By combining a conventional engine with an electric motor, these vehicles are able to achieve remarkable fuel efficiency without sacrificing power or performance. One of the most popular hybrid SUVs on the market is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, which boasts an impressive 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The Honda CR-V Hybrid is another top contender, with an estimated 40 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway.
Diesel Powertrains
Diesel engines have long been associated with heavy-duty trucks and equipment, but they’re also making a name for themselves in the SUV world. Diesel-powered SUVs are known for their impressive torque and towing capacity, but they’re also surprisingly fuel-efficient. The Chevrolet Equinox Diesel, for example, gets an estimated 39 mpg on the highway, making it an excellent choice for long road trips. The Jeep Compass Diesel is another standout, with an estimated 38 mpg on the highway.
Gasoline-Powered Models
While hybrid and diesel SUVs get a lot of attention, there are still plenty of gasoline-powered models that are worth considering. One of the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered SUVs on the market is the Hyundai Kona, which gets an estimated 33 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. The Ford Escape is another top contender, with an estimated 31 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. These vehicles may not have the same level of fuel efficiency as their hybrid and diesel counterparts, but they’re still excellent options for those who want a reliable and affordable SUV.
Best MPG in Small SUVs
When it comes to navigating crowded city streets, small SUVs are the perfect companion. Not only do they offer impressive maneuverability, but they also provide excellent fuel economy. But which small SUVs reign supreme when it comes to MPG?
Subcompact Crossovers
The subcompact crossover segment is all about efficiency. These tiny titans pack a big punch when it comes to fuel economy, making them ideal for city dwellers. Take the Chevrolet Trax, for example, which boasts an impressive 32 MPG combined. The Ford EcoSport is another stalwart in this segment, with a combined MPG of 31. These vehicles are the perfect size for navigating narrow city streets, and their fuel efficiency means you can go further on a single tank.
City Driving Champions
City driving is all about stop-and-go traffic, which can be a real challenge for your fuel tank. However, some small SUVs are designed to thrive in these conditions. The Honda HR-V, for instance, is a city driving champion, with a combined MPG of 33 in the city. The Toyota C-HR is another top performer, with a combined city MPG of 31. These vehicles are designed to maximize fuel efficiency, even in the most congested urban jungles.
Affordable Fuel Sippers
We’ve all heard the adage “you get what you pay for.” But when it comes to fuel efficiency, that’s not always the case. Some of the most affordable small SUVs on the market are also some of the most fuel-efficient. The Nissan Kicks, for example, starts at under $20,000 and boasts a combined MPG of 33. The Hyundai Kona is another affordable option, with a starting price under $21,000 and a combined MPG of 32. These vehicles prove that you don’t have to break the bank to get excellent fuel economy.
Midsize SUVs with Impressive MPG
When it comes to midsize SUVs, fuel efficiency is often a top priority for many buyers. After all, who doesn’t want to save on gas while still enjoying the space and comfort of an SUV? In this section, we’ll explore the midsize SUVs that stand out from the crowd with their impressive MPG ratings.
2-Row Midsize Options
If you’re looking for a midsize SUV with two rows of seating, you’ll be happy to know that there are some great options available that won’t break the bank at the pump. The Ford Edge, for example, boasts an estimated 28 MPG combined, making it an excellent choice for those who want a fuel-efficient SUV that can still seat five comfortably. The Nissan Murano is another great option, with an estimated 27 MPG combined. And let’s not forget the Hyundai Palisade, which offers an impressive 26 MPG combined.
3-Row Midsize Options
But what if you need a midsize SUV with three rows of seating? Don’t worry, there are still some great options available that won’t sacrifice fuel efficiency for space. The Honda Pilot, for instance, offers an estimated 24 MPG combined, making it an excellent choice for families who need a lot of space. The Toyota Highlander is another great option, with an estimated 24 MPG combined. And if you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, the Subaru Ascent offers an estimated 24 MPG combined, along with plenty of premium features.
Best-in-Class Fuel Economy
So, which midsize SUVs offer the best fuel economy of them all? The answer might surprise you. The Ford Explorer Hybrid, for example, offers an estimated 28 MPG combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient midsize SUVs on the market. The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is another great option, with an estimated 36 MPG combined. And if you’re looking for something a bit more luxurious, the Lexus RX Hybrid offers an estimated 30 MPG combined, along with plenty of premium features. Whatever your needs, there’s a midsize SUV out there that can offer both space and fuel efficiency.
Luxury SUVs with Good Gas Mileage
When it comes to luxury SUVs, the last thing on your mind might be fuel efficiency. After all, these vehicles are known for their opulence, power, and prestige. However, with rising fuel costs and growing environmental concerns, even luxury SUV owners want to save on gas without sacrificing their high-end experience. The good news is that many luxury SUVs now offer impressive fuel economy without compromising on performance or luxury features.
Premium Fuel-Efficient Options
Several luxury SUVs stand out for their exceptional fuel efficiency. The Audi Q5, for instance, offers an estimated 27 MPG combined, making it an excellent choice for those who want to save on fuel without sacrificing comfort and style. The BMW X3 is another notable mention, with an estimated 29 MPG combined. These vehicles prove that luxury and fuel efficiency are not mutually exclusive.
High-Performance Meets Fuel Economy
But what about those who crave high-performance SUVs without giving up on fuel economy? Fear not, dear speed enthusiasts, for there are options available that cater to your needs. The Porsche Macan, for example, offers an estimated 23 MPG combined while still delivering a thrilling driving experience. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is another prime example, with an estimated 22 MPG combined. These SUVs demonstrate that high-performance and fuel efficiency can coexist in perfect harmony.
Luxurious and Environmentally Friendly
In recent years, luxury SUV manufacturers have made significant strides in reducing their environmental footprint. The Land Rover Range Rover P400e, for instance, is a plug-in hybrid that offers an estimated 42 MPG combined, making it an attractive option for eco-conscious luxury SUV owners. The Volvo XC90 T8, another plug-in hybrid, boasts an estimated 58 MPGe combined. These vehicles show that luxury, performance, and sustainability can go hand-in-hand, making them an excellent choice for those who want to indulge in luxury while doing their part for the planet.
Best MPG in Electric and Hybrid SUVs
As the world shifts towards a more sustainable future, electric and hybrid SUVs are becoming increasingly popular. With their impressive fuel efficiency, reduced carbon footprint, and lower operating costs, it’s no wonder why many car buyers are making the switch. But which electric and hybrid SUVs offer the best MPG?
Fully Electric Options
Fully electric SUVs, also known as battery electric vehicles (BEVs), are powered solely by electricity from a battery pack. They offer zero tailpipe emissions, making them an attractive option for eco-conscious drivers. Some of the top fully electric SUVs with impressive MPG equivalents (MPGe) include:
- Tesla Model Y: With an estimated 123 MPGe in the city and 112 MPGe on the highway, the Tesla Model Y is a top contender in the electric SUV market.
- Hyundai Kona Electric: This subcompact SUV boasts an estimated 127 MPGe in the city and 108 MPGe on the highway, making it a great option for city dwellers.
- Audi e-tron: With an estimated 124 MPGe in the city and 104 MPGe on the highway, the Audi e-tron is a luxurious and fuel-efficient option.
Plug-In Hybrid Variants
Plug-in hybrid SUVs, also known as plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), combine a conventional internal combustion engine with an electric motor and battery pack. They offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions compared to traditional gasoline-powered SUVs. Some top plug-in hybrid SUVs with impressive MPG include:
- Toyota RAV4 Prime: With an estimated 42 miles of electric range and 38 MPG combined, the Toyota RAV4 Prime is an excellent option for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
- Ford Escape PHEV: This compact SUV boasts an estimated 37 miles of electric range and 41 MPG combined, making it a great choice for daily commutes.
- Subaru Crosstrek PHEV: With an estimated 27 miles of electric range and 47 MPG combined, the Subaru Crosstrek PHEV is a versatile and fuel-efficient option.
Fuel-Sipping SUVs of the Future
As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more impressive fuel efficiency from electric and hybrid SUVs. With ongoing innovations in battery technology, electric motors, and charging infrastructure, the future of sustainable SUVs looks bright. Imagine an SUV that can travel 500 miles on a single charge, or one that can recharge in under 10 minutes. The possibilities are endless, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for fuel-sipping SUVs.
Factors Affecting SUV Fuel Economy
SUV fuel economy is a complex beast, influenced by a multitude of factors that can either boost or hinder your vehicle’s gas-sipping abilities. In this section, we’ll delve into the most significant factors that affect SUV fuel economy, helping you make informed decisions when selecting your next ride.
Engine Size and Type
The age-old adage “bigger is better” doesn’t necessarily apply when it comes to SUV engines. In fact, smaller engines can be more fuel-efficient, as they require less power to move the vehicle. However, smaller engines may sacrifice power and performance, making them less desirable for drivers who need to haul heavy loads or tow trailers.
On the other hand, larger engines can provide the necessary oomph for SUVs that require heavy lifting. But, they come with a cost – literally. Larger engines typically guzzle more fuel, leading to lower fuel economy ratings. So, what’s the sweet spot? Look for SUVs with engines that strike a balance between power and efficiency.
Hybrid engines, which combine a traditional internal combustion engine with an electric motor, offer a promising solution. By leveraging the strengths of both powerplants, hybrid SUVs can achieve impressive fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The transmission and drivetrain play a crucial role in determining an SUV’s fuel economy. A smooth-shifting transmission can help optimize engine performance, while a well-designed drivetrain can reduce energy loss and improve overall efficiency.
Front-wheel drive (FWD) SUVs, for instance, typically offer better fuel economy than their all-wheel drive (AWD) counterparts. This is because FWD systems require less energy to power the wheels, resulting in improved gas mileage. However, AWD SUVs are better suited for drivers who frequently encounter rough terrain or inclement weather.
Manual transmissions, although less common in SUVs, can also provide better fuel economy than their automatic counterparts. By allowing drivers to control gear shifts, manual transmissions can optimize engine performance and reduce fuel waste.
Aerodynamics and Weight Reduction
Aerodynamics and weight reduction may seem like minor factors, but they can have a significant impact on an SUV’s fuel economy. Aerodynamic design elements, such as sleek lines, curved surfaces, and air dams, can reduce wind resistance and improve airflow around the vehicle. This, in turn, can lead to better fuel economy and improved performance.
Weight reduction, achieved through the use of lightweight materials or clever design, can also contribute to improved fuel economy. By shedding pounds, SUVs can improve their power-to-weight ratio, allowing them to accelerate more efficiently and reduce energy loss.
Imagine it like this: a lean, agile runner versus a bulkier, heavier counterpart. Who do you think would conserve more energy over a long distance? By applying this same principle to SUV design, manufacturers can create vehicles that are both powerful and fuel-efficient.