Looking for an SUV that won’t break the bank at the gas pump? Fuel economy is a major concern for car buyers today, and thankfully, the SUV market offers a range of models that prioritize efficiency without sacrificing space and versatility. Whether you’re commuting to work, hauling the family, or embarking on a road trip, choosing a fuel-efficient SUV can save you significant money in the long run and reduce your environmental footprint.
This list highlights ten of the Best Fuel Economy Suvs available, focusing on models that offer impressive miles per gallon (MPG) without compromising on the features and capabilities you expect from a modern SUV. From compact crossovers to mid-size options, there’s a fuel-sipping SUV for every need and budget.
10. 2019 GMC Acadia
Starting at $29,000 – $47,500
White 2019 GMC Acadia SUV side view, highlighting its spacious design and fuel-efficient crossover capabilities.
20 MPG – Combined
The 2019 GMC Acadia enters our list as a solid mid-size crossover SUV that balances passenger capacity with reasonable fuel consumption. Competing in a highly competitive segment, the Acadia provides three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. While not leading the pack in fuel economy, its 20 MPG combined rating is respectable for its size and capabilities, making it a practical choice for families needing space without completely sacrificing efficiency. The Acadia offers a comfortable ride and a range of features, positioning itself as a versatile option in the fuel-conscious SUV market.
9. 2019 Dodge Durango
Starting at $30,445 – $63,245
Side profile of a white 2019 Dodge Durango SUV, emphasizing its powerful stance and efficient full-size SUV design.
15 MPG – Combined
The Dodge Durango, while positioned as a full-size SUV, manages to offer a degree of value alongside its robust capabilities. Starting at around $30,000, it presents itself as an accessible entry point into the full-size SUV category. Equipped with an 8-speed transmission and standard features like remote keyless entry and three-zone climate control, the 2019 Durango aims to blend comfort and convenience. While its 15 MPG combined fuel economy is lower than other SUVs on this list, it’s important to consider its larger size and powerful engine options, making it a choice for those who prioritize space and power alongside some level of fuel consideration in a full-size SUV.
8. 2019 Subaru Ascent
Starting at $31,995 – $44,695
White 2019 Subaru Ascent SUV angled view, showcasing its car-like handling and fuel-efficient crossover design.
22 MPG – Combined
Subaru’s success with models like the Outback and Forester translates into the Ascent, a larger SUV that maintains the brand’s reputation for drivability and efficiency. The 2019 Subaru Ascent delivers a surprisingly car-like driving experience, defying expectations for a vehicle of its size. With a combined fuel economy of 22 MPG, the Ascent stands out as a fuel-efficient option in the three-row SUV segment. Subaru’s engineering focuses on both performance and economy, making the Ascent a compelling choice for drivers seeking a balance of space, capability, and lower fuel costs.
7. 2019 Nissan Pathfinder
Starting at $31,530 – $44,560
Front side view of a white 2019 Nissan Pathfinder SUV, highlighting its seating capacity and fuel-conscious design.
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder strikes a balance between passenger capacity and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for families and individuals alike. With a combined fuel economy of 21 MPG, the Pathfinder offers a good value proposition in the SUV market. Moving away from its truck-like SUV predecessors, the modern Pathfinder prioritizes car-like comfort and efficiency, while still providing ample space and features. This blend of fuel economy and versatility positions the Nissan Pathfinder as a strong contender for those seeking an SUV that is both economical and functional for everyday use.
6. 2019 Honda Pilot
Starting at $31,450 – $48,020
White 2019 Honda Pilot SUV front perspective, emphasizing its interior comfort and fuel-efficient minivan alternative design.
22 MPG – Combined
Honda’s redesigned Pilot crossover utility vehicle for 2019 prioritizes interior space, comfort, and adaptability, making it a strong contender in the fuel-efficient SUV category. Boasting three rows of seating comparable to a minivan, the Pilot still manages to incorporate efficient driving dynamics and a 22 MPG combined fuel economy. This focus on interior comfort and versatility, combined with respectable fuel consumption, makes the Honda Pilot an attractive option for buyers who need family-friendly space without the bulk and fuel costs often associated with larger SUVs.
5. 2019 Chevrolet Traverse
Starting at $29,930 – $53,200
Angled view of a white 2019 Chevrolet Traverse SUV, showcasing its competitive stance in the fuel-efficient SUV segment.
20 MPG – Combined
The Chevrolet Traverse is GM’s entry into the competitive SUV battlefield, designed to stand out with its blend of features and fuel economy. The 2019 Traverse achieves this with a 20 MPG combined rating, which is competitive for its size and class. Chevrolet has focused on creating an SUV that meets the demands of modern drivers, offering a balance of space, technology, and fuel efficiency. The Traverse aims to provide a compelling package for consumers looking for a versatile and economical SUV option in a crowded market.
4. 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
Starting at $28,800 – $45,600
White 2019 Chevrolet Blazer SUV front angled view, highlighting its versatile and fuel-conscious mid-size SUV design.
21 MPG – Combined
The Chevrolet Blazer, with a starting price around $29,000, positions itself in the mid-size SUV segment while offering a lower-than-average entry point. SUVs are expected to be versatile, and the 2019 Blazer aims to deliver on this expectation while also providing reasonable fuel economy. Achieving 21 MPG combined, the Blazer balances practicality with efficiency. Chevrolet emphasizes the Blazer’s versatility and fuel-conscious design, targeting buyers who need the functionality of an SUV without excessive fuel consumption.
3. 2019 Kia Sorento
Starting at $26,290 – $46,490
White 2019 Kia Sorento SUV side view, emphasizing its bold styling and versatile fuel-efficient SUV features.
21 MPG – Combined
The Kia Sorento competes in the highly populated mid-size SUV segment, but distinguishes itself with bold styling and a range of options. The 2019 Kia Sorento stands out as a versatile and fuel-efficient choice, achieving 21 MPG combined. Kia has focused on creating a vehicle that is both visually appealing and practically efficient, making the Sorento a compelling option for buyers who prioritize style and fuel economy in their SUV purchase. Its combination of features and economy helps it stand out in a competitive market.
2. 2019 Mazda CX-9
Starting at $32,280 – $45,365
Side profile of a white 2019 Mazda CX-9 SUV, showcasing its seven-seat capacity and fuel-efficient turbocharged engine.
23 MPG – Combined
Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV, the CX-9, offers seating for seven and a focus on both performance and fuel efficiency. The 2019 Mazda CX-9 achieves 23 MPG combined, a notable figure for a seven-seater SUV. Its fuel-efficient turbocharged engine and refined driving dynamics make it a standout in its class. Mazda emphasizes the CX-9’s ability to blend family-friendly practicality with an engaging driving experience and lower fuel costs, appealing to buyers who don’t want to compromise on either aspect.
1. 2023 Mazda CX-5
Starting at $26,700 – $39,650
Front view of a white 2023 Mazda CX-5 SUV, highlighting its sporty driving and top-rated fuel economy in the compact SUV class.
24 MPG – Combined
Topping our list is the 2023 Mazda CX-5, a compact SUV that excels in a competitive segment including the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. Even amongst these strong competitors, the CX-5 distinguishes itself as one of the sportiest to drive while maintaining impressive fuel economy, achieving 24 MPG combined. Mazda has engineered the CX-5 to offer a dynamic driving experience without sacrificing efficiency, making it a leader in the fuel-efficient SUV category and a top choice for drivers who want a fun-to-drive and economical vehicle.
