Understanding vehicle fuel economy is essential for car owners, especially when considering the diverse range of vehicles available today. With the rise in popularity of SUVs, it’s crucial to examine how they fare in terms of mileage compared to other vehicle categories. This article delves into the average fuel economy of SUVs and other major vehicle types in the United States, providing a clear picture based on data from the Federal Highway Administration.
| Vehicle Category | Average Fuel Economy (MPG Gasoline) |
|---|---|
| Motorcycle | 44 |
| Ridesourcing Vehicle | 25.5 |
| Car | 24.4 |
| Light Truck/Van | 17.8 |
| Transit Vanpool | 11.1 |
| Demand Response | 5.6 |
| Delivery Truck | 6.8 |
| School Bus | 6.5 |
| Class 8 Truck | 5.7 |
| Transit Bus | 3.4 |
| Refuse Truck | 2.5 |
As illustrated in the chart, the average fuel economy for “Light Trucks/Van,” a category that includes many SUVs, is 17.8 miles per gallon (MPG) of gasoline equivalent. This figure represents the average across a broad spectrum of vehicles within this category, highlighting where SUVs generally stand in fuel efficiency compared to other vehicle types. When juxtaposed with cars, which average 24.4 MPG, SUVs typically consume more fuel. However, they are significantly more fuel-efficient than heavier commercial vehicles like delivery trucks (6.8 MPG), school buses (6.5 MPG), and refuse trucks (2.5 MPG).
Several factors contribute to the Average Suv Mileage. The design and purpose of SUVs often prioritize space, passenger capacity, and ruggedness, which can lead to larger, heavier vehicles compared to standard cars. Engine size and type also play a critical role; larger engines generally offer more power but consume more fuel. Aerodynamics and vehicle weight are key determinants of fuel efficiency, with SUVs often facing challenges in these areas due to their larger frontal area and heavier build. Driving conditions further influence fuel economy, with stop-and-go city driving typically reducing MPG compared to consistent highway speeds.
While the average SUV mileage may be lower than that of a standard car, it is important to note the advancements in automotive technology aimed at improving fuel efficiency in SUVs. Modern SUVs increasingly feature fuel-efficient engine technologies such as turbocharging and direct injection, as well as hybrid and even fully electric powertrains. These innovations are helping to bridge the fuel economy gap, offering consumers SUV versatility with improved mileage. For those particularly concerned about fuel costs and environmental impact, exploring smaller SUV models or hybrid SUV options can be a worthwhile consideration.
In conclusion, the average SUV mileage in the US is approximately 17.8 MPG, based on the broader “Light Truck/Van” category. This figure provides a valuable benchmark for understanding SUV fuel consumption relative to other vehicle types. However, it’s crucial to remember that SUV mileage can vary significantly depending on specific models, engine configurations, and driving habits. Consumers looking for an SUV should weigh their needs for space and capability against fuel economy, considering the diverse range of SUV options available with varying levels of fuel efficiency.
Sources:
- Federal Highway Administration. Highway Statistics 2021, Table VM-1. https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/policyinformation/statistics/2018/pdf/vm1.pdf
- World Resources Institute. Electric School Bus Initiative, Recommended total cost of ownership parameters for electric school buses, Table 1Highway Statistics 2021, Table VM-1. https://files.wri.org/d8/s3fs-public/2023-02/recommended-total-cost-ownership-esb-summary-methods-data.pdf?VersionId=dFh.syMjwVcYF9cBpomUkK5_hepMvyIB
- American Public Transit Association’s Public Transportation Fact Book 2022. https://apta.com/wp-content/uploads/APTA-2022-Public-Transportation-Fact-Book.pdf
- Gordon, Deborah, Juliet Burdelski, and James S. Cannon. Greening Garbage Trucks: New Technologies for Cleaner Air. Inform, Inc. 2003.
