Despite fluctuating fuel prices, the appeal of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) remains strong for many drivers. SUVs offer versatility that meets diverse needs, from family transportation and pet-friendly travel to accommodating cargo for weekend adventures or everyday errands. While minivans prioritize practicality, they often lack the desired style and road presence of SUVs. Sedans, though typically more fuel-efficient, can’t match the commanding driving position and spaciousness that SUVs provide. For those seeking a balance between SUV functionality and fuel economy, the good news is that there are numerous fuel-efficient SUV options available, especially in the used car market.
Hybrid technology, once primarily found in sedans and smaller cars, has become increasingly prevalent in SUVs. Ford pioneered this segment with the Escape Hybrid, and other manufacturers quickly followed suit. Hybrid SUVs offer significant improvements in fuel efficiency, but new models often come with a higher price tag to offset the development costs of hybrid powertrains. However, exploring the used market can mitigate this price premium, making hybrid SUVs more accessible.
Beyond hybrids, various conventional SUVs prioritize fuel efficiency through smart engineering and design. These models typically lean towards smaller sizes, prioritize front-wheel or two-wheel drive over all-wheel or four-wheel drive, and utilize smaller, more economical engines, often four-cylinder configurations instead of larger six-cylinder options. It’s important to remember that fuel economy can be influenced by factors like vehicle options and driving habits; more features and aggressive driving styles generally lead to decreased mileage.
To help you navigate the landscape of fuel-efficient SUVs, we’ve compiled a list of ten standouts based on EPA fuel economy data, considering both fuel efficiency, base price points, and cargo capacity. Where applicable, we’ve included fuel economy figures for all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive versions for comparison. Keep in mind that these figures are EPA estimates and can vary based on individual driving habits and vehicle condition. Let’s explore some of the top choices for maximizing fuel economy without sacrificing the benefits of an SUV.
10) 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander marked a significant redesign for this model, making used versions still relevant and modern. A key feature of the 2014 Outlander is its seven-passenger capacity, thanks to a third row, a valuable asset for families. Under the hood, the Outlander features a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 166 horsepower while achieving an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. When new, the 2014 Outlander was competitively priced, making it an attractive entry point for budget-conscious buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency in a used SUV.
9) 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK Diesel
Diesel engines are well-regarded for their fuel efficiency and robust torque output, even from engines with relatively modest horsepower figures. The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK Diesel exemplifies this, offering good fuel economy in a midsize luxury SUV. Its 2.1-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine delivers 200 horsepower and an impressive 369 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a surprisingly sporty driving feel despite its size. The 2014 GLK Diesel achieves EPA ratings of 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it a fuel-efficient option in the luxury SUV segment.
Mercedes-Benz GLK Diesel 2014 front view
8) 2014 Buick Encore
Powering the 2014 Buick Encore is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower, which is well-suited to the vehicle’s size and purpose. This engine choice contributes to the Encore’s EPA fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg in city driving and 33 mpg on the highway. Used SUV shoppers interested in the Encore for its fuel efficiency will also appreciate its upscale interior finishes and strong safety ratings, making the 2014 Encore a compelling choice for families seeking a fuel-efficient and comfortable ride.
Buick Encore 2014 dashboard interior
7) 2014 Nissan Rogue
Nissan completely redesigned the Rogue for the 2014 model year, ensuring that even used models feel modern and well-equipped. Beyond fuel efficiency, the 2014 Rogue offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with high-quality materials, a spacious interior with ample cargo space, and an optional third-row seat for larger families. The Rogue’s fuel economy of 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway is attributed to its 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT).
Nissan Rogue 2014 in motion on road
6) 2014 Mazda CX-5
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 stands out not only for its impressive fuel economy but also as a well-rounded crossover SUV. This family-friendly vehicle boasts Mazda’s signature sporty styling, a comfortable interior, and a generous list of features. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 155 horsepower, which is adequate for everyday driving but may feel slightly underpowered during brisk acceleration. However, the 2014 CX-5 compensates with EPA fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, a worthwhile trade-off for many fuel-conscious SUV buyers.
5) 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is classified as a midsize SUV, but its spacious interior, accommodating passenger seating, and substantial cargo area give it a larger feel. Despite its size, the Highlander Hybrid achieves excellent fuel economy thanks to its hybrid powertrain, which combines a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor. This system delivers a combined 231 horsepower, providing smooth acceleration while maintaining EPA fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
4) 2014 Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke’s distinctive and sporty styling might not immediately suggest fuel efficiency, but it ranks highly among fuel-efficient SUVs due to its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine. A continuously variable transmission is standard, with a six-speed manual available as an option. This powertrain produces 188 horsepower, providing the Juke with lively performance without excessive fuel consumption. The 2014 Juke achieves EPA fuel economy of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway while offering a comfortable ride and a range of modern features.
Nissan Juke 2014 dynamic front angle
3) 2014 Lexus RX Hybrid
The hybrid version of the Lexus RX midsize SUV excels in fuel economy, power, and the luxury features expected from the Lexus brand. Lexus simplified the RX Hybrid lineup by offering it in a single trim level, with option packages for customization. At its core is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine paired with two electric motors, delivering a combined 295 horsepower. The 2014 Lexus RX Hybrid achieves EPA fuel economy of 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, slightly lower highway mileage than some smaller SUVs on this list, but impressive considering its luxury and features.
2) 2014 MINI Cooper Countryman
The MINI Cooper Countryman represents the MINI brand’s foray into the compact SUV segment, resulting in a fun-to-drive and fuel-efficient option. The 2014 Cooper Countryman’s small size and 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine enable it to achieve EPA fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The base Cooper Countryman produces a modest 121 horsepower, but its other attributes compensate for the engine’s output. It’s agile, practical, and offers refined road manners, ensuring that choosing the fuel-efficient base model doesn’t feel like a compromise within the MINI lineup.
MINI Cooper Countryman 2014 rear view
1) 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid
Topping our list of fuel-efficient used SUVs is the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid, recognized for its practicality and EPA fuel economy ratings of 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid was Subaru’s first hybrid model, featuring a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 160 horsepower. While the hybrid version doesn’t offer a dramatic fuel economy improvement over the standard gas-powered XV Crosstrek, it remains a valuable addition to the Subaru lineup, especially when combined with Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system, a feature often lacking in competitors with similar fuel economy ratings.
