With rising fuel costs and a growing awareness of environmental impact, finding a Car With The Best Gas Mileage is more crucial than ever, especially when considering an SUV. SUVs offer versatility and space, but they haven’t always been synonymous with fuel efficiency. However, the automotive market has evolved, and there are now several SUVs that deliver impressive gas mileage without compromising on the features and space you need. Let’s explore some top SUV models that stand out for their fuel economy, making them smart choices for savvy car buyers looking to minimize trips to the gas station.
Top Fuel-Efficient SUVs to Consider
Here’s a curated list of SUVs known for their excellent gas mileage, offering a blend of economy and practicality.
2023 Mazda CX-5 – Leading the Pack in Fuel Economy
24 MPG – Combined
Starting at $26,700 – $39,650
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 tops our list as a leader in fuel efficiency within the competitive compact SUV segment. Going head-to-head with popular models like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, the CX-5 distinguishes itself with its sporty driving dynamics and surprisingly good gas mileage. This SUV doesn’t just excel in fuel economy; it also offers an engaging driving experience, making it a top pick for those who appreciate both efficiency and performance. For drivers seeking a car with the best gas mileage in the SUV category that doesn’t sacrifice driving pleasure, the Mazda CX-5 is a compelling option.
2019 Mazda CX-9 – Fuel Efficiency Meets Family Size
23 MPG – Combined
Starting at $32,280 – $45,365
The Mazda CX-9, Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV, impressively balances family-friendly space with commendable fuel economy. With seating for up to seven passengers, it’s designed to accommodate both passengers and cargo comfortably. A key feature contributing to its gas mileage is its fuel-efficient turbocharged engine. This engine provides ample power while helping to conserve fuel, making the CX-9 a smart choice for families who need space without wanting to compromise on fuel costs. If you’re looking for a larger SUV without sacrificing fuel efficiency, the Mazda CX-9 is worth considering.
2019 Subaru Ascent – Efficient Performance for the Adventurous
22 MPG – Combined
Starting at $31,995 – $44,695
Subaru has built a strong reputation for vehicles that are both reliable and enjoyable to drive, and the 2019 Subaru Ascent continues this tradition. Leveraging the success of models like the Outback and Forester, the Ascent offers a comfortable, car-like driving experience despite its SUV size. This model achieves 22 MPG combined, a notable figure for a vehicle in its class, making it a fuel-conscious choice for those needing a bit more space and capability. For those who value Subaru’s driving dynamics and are seeking a car with good gas mileage in a larger SUV format, the Ascent is a solid contender.
2019 Honda Pilot – Comfort and Efficiency in a Family SUV
22 MPG – Combined
Starting at $31,450 – $48,020
The redesigned Honda Pilot crossover utility vehicle prioritizes interior comfort and versatility, making it an excellent choice for families. It features three rows of seating, offering minivan-like passenger space within an SUV framework. Despite its size, the Pilot manages to achieve 22 MPG combined, making it a fuel-efficient option in the three-row SUV category. For families who prioritize space, comfort, and want a car with good gas mileage, the Honda Pilot is a well-rounded option.
2019 Nissan Pathfinder – Balancing Capacity and Fuel Economy
21 MPG – Combined
Starting at $31,530 – $44,560
The Nissan Pathfinder strikes a balance between seating capacity and fuel economy, positioning itself as a good value option for buyers. While earlier Pathfinder models were more rugged and truck-like, the 2019 version shifted towards a more car-based crossover design, enhancing its fuel efficiency. Achieving 21 MPG combined, the Pathfinder offers a practical blend of space and economy, making it suitable for families or individuals who need passenger and cargo room without excessive fuel consumption. If you’re seeking a car with good gas mileage that also offers ample space, the Nissan Pathfinder is a strong contender.
2019 Chevrolet Blazer – Style and Efficiency in a Mid-Size SUV
21 MPG – Combined
Starting at $28,800 – $45,600
The Chevrolet Blazer enters the competitive mid-sized SUV segment with a blend of style and efficiency. With a starting price that’s attractive for its class, the Blazer delivers 21 MPG combined, a respectable figure for a versatile SUV. SUVs are expected to be adaptable, and the Blazer lives up to this expectation by offering a balance of fuel economy, features, and Chevrolet’s signature design. For those looking for a car with good gas mileage that also makes a style statement, the Chevrolet Blazer is a compelling option.
2019 Kia Sorento – Versatility and Value with Good MPG
21 MPG – Combined
Starting at $26,290 – $46,490
The Kia Sorento competes in the crowded mid-sized SUV segment and distinguishes itself with its bold styling and a wide array of options, enhancing its versatility. Achieving 21 MPG combined, the Sorento provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and features that appeal to a broad range of buyers. Kia has focused on making the Sorento stand out in a competitive market, and its fuel economy is part of its appeal. If you are looking for a car with the best gas mileage in the mid-size SUV category that also offers strong value and styling, the Kia Sorento is a noteworthy choice.
2019 GMC Acadia – Spacious and Reasonably Efficient
20 MPG – Combined
Starting at $29,000 – $47,500
The GMC Acadia enters the popular mid-sized crossover segment, offering three rows of seating for up to seven passengers. While delivering a spacious interior, the Acadia still manages to provide 20 MPG combined. In a segment where fuel efficiency is a key consideration, the Acadia’s MPG figure makes it a competitive option, especially for those needing the extra seating. For buyers prioritizing space and seeking a car with reasonable gas mileage in a mid-size SUV, the GMC Acadia fits the bill.
2019 Chevrolet Traverse – Maximizing Space with Decent Fuel Economy
20 MPG – Combined
Starting at $29,930 – $53,200
The Chevrolet Traverse is designed to stand out in the highly competitive SUV market by offering significant space and versatility. GM has focused on making the Traverse a strong contender, and part of its appeal is its decent fuel economy for its size, achieving 20 MPG combined. This makes the Traverse a practical choice for those who need maximum passenger and cargo space but are also mindful of fuel consumption. If you are in the market for a large SUV and want a car with good gas mileage relative to its size, the Chevrolet Traverse is worth exploring.
2019 Dodge Durango – Power and Practicality with Acceptable MPG
15 MPG – Combined
Starting at $30,445 – $63,245
The Dodge Durango is positioned as a value-oriented full-size SUV, offering substantial size and features for its price point. While its 15 MPG combined is lower than others on this list, it’s still noteworthy for a full-size SUV, especially considering its available power and capabilities. Features like an 8-speed transmission and standard remote keyless entry add to its appeal. For buyers who need the size and power of a full-size SUV and are looking for a car with the best gas mileage within that category, the Dodge Durango is a practical choice.
Choosing the Right Fuel-Efficient SUV
Selecting a car with the best gas mileage in the SUV category involves balancing fuel economy with your specific needs for space, features, and driving experience. This list showcases a range of SUVs, from compact to full-size, all offering commendable fuel efficiency for their respective classes. As fuel prices and environmental concerns continue to rise, these models represent smart choices for those looking to maximize fuel savings without giving up the versatility of an SUV. Consider your priorities and explore these models further to find the perfect fuel-efficient SUV for your lifestyle.
