Choosing the right SUV involves balancing space, utility, and increasingly, fuel efficiency. With rising gas prices and a growing environmental consciousness, finding an SUV that doesn’t break the bank at the pump is more critical than ever. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that offers the versatility of an SUV without sacrificing fuel economy, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve compiled a list of top SUVs that excel in fuel efficiency, ensuring you can enjoy your journeys with fewer stops at the gas station. Let’s explore the best SUV options that offer excellent gas mileage.
10. 2019 GMC Acadia
Starting at $29,000 – $47,500
White 2019 GMC Acadia SUV, showcasing its spacious design and fuel efficiency.
20 MPG – Combined
The 2019 GMC Acadia enters a competitive mid-size SUV arena, appealing to families and individuals needing space and reasonable fuel consumption. With a starting price under $30,000, the Acadia provides three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. For those seeking a balance between passenger capacity and fuel economy in a mid-size SUV, the GMC Acadia presents a compelling option. Its 20 MPG combined fuel economy makes it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer family trips, offering a comfortable ride without excessive fuel costs.
9. 2019 Dodge Durango
Starting at $30,445 – $63,245
White 2019 Dodge Durango SUV, highlighting its robust build and moderate fuel efficiency.
15 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Dodge Durango stands out as a value proposition in the full-size SUV category, beginning at approximately $30,000. While its fuel economy is lower compared to smaller SUVs, the Durango offers significant space and features for its price point. Equipped with an available 8-speed transmission and standard remote keyless entry, it aims to provide convenience and comfort. The three-zone climate control further enhances passenger comfort, making it suitable for families. For buyers prioritizing size and features in a full-size SUV and are willing to consider moderate fuel consumption, the Dodge Durango remains a strong contender.
8. 2019 Subaru Ascent
Starting at $31,995 – $44,695
White 2019 Subaru Ascent SUV, known for its car-like handling and decent gas mileage.
22 MPG – Combined
Subaru’s success with models like the Outback and Forester is mirrored in the 2019 Ascent, largely due to its comfortable and easy driving dynamics. Defying typical SUV expectations, the Ascent provides a car-like driving experience, making it user-friendly for daily driving. This characteristic, combined with a combined fuel economy of 22 MPG, positions the Subaru Ascent as a fuel-efficient option within the three-row SUV segment. It’s particularly appealing to drivers who appreciate Subaru’s driving feel and are looking for a larger, more fuel-conscious family vehicle.
7. 2019 Nissan Pathfinder
Starting at $31,530 – $44,560
White 2019 Nissan Pathfinder SUV, balancing passenger capacity with reasonable fuel economy.
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder strikes a balance between passenger capacity and fuel efficiency, making it a practical choice for many SUV buyers. While earlier Pathfinder models were more akin to truck-based SUVs, the 2019 version shifts towards a more car-like crossover design, enhancing its on-road comfort and fuel economy. Achieving 21 MPG combined, the Pathfinder offers a good compromise for those needing seating for a larger family without incurring excessive fuel costs. It’s a solid option for those who value both space and efficiency in their SUV.
6. 2019 Honda Pilot
Starting at $31,450 – $48,020
White 2019 Honda Pilot SUV, emphasizing interior comfort and fuel efficiency for families.
22 MPG – Combined
The redesigned 2019 Honda Pilot prioritizes interior comfort and versatility, making it a strong contender in the family SUV market. Offering three rows of seating, the Pilot approaches minivan-like passenger space while maintaining an SUV form factor. Its fuel economy is also noteworthy, achieving 22 MPG combined, which is commendable for its size and passenger capacity. The Honda Pilot is tailored for families who need ample interior space, comfortable seating, and are mindful of fuel consumption, making it a well-rounded and efficient family SUV.
5. 2019 Chevrolet Traverse
Starting at $29,930 – $53,200
White 2019 Chevrolet Traverse SUV, highlighting its spacious interior and competitive fuel economy.
20 MPG – Combined
The SUV segment is highly competitive, and the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is GM’s effort to stand out. One of its key differentiators is offering substantial interior space while maintaining competitive fuel economy. The Traverse achieves 20 MPG combined, which is respectable for its size and the space it provides, often exceeding expectations for vehicles in its class. For buyers who prioritize interior volume and are seeking a fuel-efficient SUV that can handle both passengers and cargo, the Chevrolet Traverse is a compelling choice, blending practicality with efficiency.
4. 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
Starting at $28,800 – $45,600
Red 2019 Chevrolet Blazer SUV, showcasing its stylish design and good fuel economy for its class.
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer enters the mid-size SUV segment with a starting price around $29,000, positioning it as an accessible option. SUVs are inherently expected to be versatile, and the Blazer aims to deliver on this expectation while also providing reasonable fuel economy. Achieving 21 MPG combined, the Blazer balances utility with efficiency, making it suitable for buyers who need the flexibility of an SUV without the penalty of poor gas mileage. It’s a practical choice for those seeking a stylish and fuel-conscious mid-size SUV.
3. 2019 Kia Sorento
Starting at $26,290 – $46,490
Gray 2019 Kia Sorento SUV, noted for its bold styling and fuel efficiency in the mid-size category.
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Kia Sorento competes in the crowded mid-size SUV market, distinguishing itself with bold styling and a wide array of available features. This versatility, combined with a fuel economy of 21 MPG combined, allows the Sorento to appeal to a broad range of buyers. For those seeking a mid-size SUV that not only looks good but also offers a balance of features and fuel efficiency, the Kia Sorento is a strong contender. It’s an attractive option for individuals and families who want a stylish, well-equipped, and reasonably fuel-efficient SUV.
2. 2019 Mazda CX-9
Starting at $32,280 – $45,365
Dark Gray 2019 Mazda CX-9 SUV, recognized for its turbocharged engine and fuel-efficient performance.
23 MPG – Combined
The Mazda CX-9 is Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV, offering seating for up to seven passengers, making it ideal for families and group travel. A key highlight is its fuel-efficient turbocharged engine, which provides a good balance of performance and economy. Achieving 23 MPG combined, the CX-9 stands out for offering three-row seating without significantly compromising on fuel efficiency. It’s an excellent choice for those who need a larger SUV but still prioritize fuel economy and a more engaging driving experience.
1. 2023 Mazda CX-5
Starting at $26,700 – $39,650
Red 2023 Mazda CX-5 SUV, celebrated for its sporty handling and excellent fuel economy in its segment.
24 MPG – Combined
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 competes in a highly popular segment against rivals like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. Even in this competitive field, the CX-5 distinguishes itself as one of the sportier models to drive, coupled with surprisingly good fuel economy. With 24 MPG combined, it leads this list, showcasing that fuel efficiency doesn’t have to come at the expense of driving enjoyment. The Mazda CX-5 is perfect for individuals and small families who prioritize both fuel economy and a dynamic driving experience in a compact SUV.
