Despite fluctuating gas prices, the appeal of Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) remains strong. SUVs offer the space and versatility needed for modern life, from family duties to weekend adventures. While minivans prioritize practicality, they often lack the desired style, and sedans, though economical, can’t match the commanding driving position and cargo capacity of an SUV. If you’re seeking to balance SUV functionality with fuel efficiency, you’re in luck. The market offers a range of surprisingly fuel-sipping SUVs, especially in the used car segment.
Hybrid technology, once limited to smaller vehicles, has become increasingly common in SUVs, significantly boosting miles per gallon. While hybrid SUVs often come with a higher initial price tag reflecting the advanced technology, the long-term fuel savings can be substantial. Exploring the used market can further mitigate the initial cost, making fuel-efficient SUV ownership more accessible.
Beyond hybrids, numerous other SUVs prioritize fuel economy through smart engineering. These models typically feature smaller, yet capable engines, often four-cylinder configurations instead of larger six-cylinder options. They may also utilize front-wheel drive instead of all-wheel or four-wheel drive systems to reduce weight and drivetrain losses. Choosing a model with essential features rather than extensive options packages can also positively impact fuel consumption.
To help you navigate the landscape of fuel-efficient SUVs, we’ve compiled a list of top contenders based on the latest EPA data, considering both MPG ratings and practical factors like base price and cargo space. Keep in mind that these figures are EPA estimates; real-world mileage can vary based on driving habits and conditions. For comparison, we’ve included fuel economy ratings for all-wheel-drive versions where applicable. Let’s dive into the top 10 most fuel-efficient SUVs that can help you save at the pump without compromising on SUV practicality.
10) 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander: Seven Seats and Solid MPG
The 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander marked a significant redesign for this SUV, making used models a contemporary and budget-friendly choice for families. A key selling point is its three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers, a rare feature in this segment and ideal for larger families needing a fuel-efficient SUV. Under the hood, a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine delivers 166 horsepower while achieving EPA fuel economy ratings of 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. The 2014 Outlander was initially priced competitively, making it an even more attractive option for value-conscious buyers seeking a used SUV with good gas mileage. For families prioritizing passenger space and fuel savings, the 2014 Mitsubishi Outlander is a compelling option.
9) 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK Diesel: Luxury and Diesel Efficiency
The 2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK Diesel showcases the renowned fuel efficiency and torque benefits of turbodiesel engines. Diesel engines are celebrated for their impressive low-end torque, providing a responsive and engaging driving experience even with modest horsepower figures. Despite its luxurious appointments and substantial build, this midsize luxury SUV achieves excellent fuel economy. Its 2.1-liter twin-turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine produces 200 horsepower and a robust 369 lb-ft of torque, making it feel surprisingly sporty. The 2014 GLK Diesel boasts EPA ratings of 24 mpg city and an impressive 33 mpg highway, proving that fuel-efficient SUVs can also offer premium features and driving dynamics. For buyers seeking a luxury SUV with great gas mileage, the GLK Diesel is worth considering.
8) 2014 Buick Encore: Compact Size, Big Fuel Savings
The 2014 Buick Encore demonstrates that even smaller SUVs can deliver impressive fuel economy without sacrificing comfort and features. Powering the Encore is a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower, perfectly adequate for its compact size. This engine helps the Encore achieve EPA ratings of 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment for fuel efficiency. Used SUV shoppers attracted to the Encore for its MPG will also appreciate its upscale interior finishes and strong safety ratings, making the 2014 Encore a practical and economical SUV for families or individuals seeking a smaller footprint without compromising on comfort or safety.
7) 2014 Nissan Rogue: Fresh Design and Fuel-Conscious Performance
The 2014 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, ensuring that even used models feel modern and well-equipped. Beyond its appealing fuel economy, the Rogue offers a comfortable and well-appointed cabin with quality materials, a spacious interior with ample cargo room, and the option of a third-row seat in some configurations. The Rogue’s EPA fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway are achieved through its 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a fuel-efficient continuously variable transmission (CVT). This combination makes the 2014 Nissan Rogue a compelling choice for buyers seeking a midsize SUV with excellent MPG and a range of practical features.
6) 2014 Mazda CX-5: Fun-to-Drive and Fuel-Efficient Crossover
The 2014 Mazda CX-5 stands out as a well-rounded crossover that blends driving enjoyment with impressive fuel mileage. This family-friendly SUV features Mazda’s signature sporty styling, a comfortable and well-equipped interior, and engaging handling. While its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 155 horsepower is adequate for most driving situations, some drivers may desire more power for quicker acceleration. However, the 2014 CX-5 compensates with EPA fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers in its class. For those prioritizing driving dynamics and SUV fuel economy, the Mazda CX-5 is an excellent choice.
5) 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Spacious Hybrid Efficiency
Despite its classification as a midsize SUV, the 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offers a remarkably spacious interior with generous passenger and cargo space, almost feeling like a larger vehicle. Crucially, it achieves impressive fuel economy thanks to its hybrid powertrain. The Highlander Hybrid combines a 3.5-liter V-6 engine with an electric motor, producing a combined 231 horsepower. This system provides smooth and sufficient power while achieving EPA fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. The 2014 Toyota Highlander Hybrid demonstrates that fuel-efficient SUVs can also be spacious and family-oriented, making it an ideal choice for buyers needing both space and excellent SUV gas mileage.
4) 2014 Nissan Juke: Distinctive Style and Turbocharged Efficiency
The Nissan Juke’s bold and sporty styling might not immediately suggest fuel efficiency, but this unique SUV ranks highly among fuel-efficient sport utility vehicles. Its turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine is the key to its MPG performance. Paired with a standard continuously variable transmission (CVT) or an optional six-speed manual, this engine produces 188 horsepower, providing ample power for spirited driving without excessive fuel consumption. The 2014 Juke achieves EPA fuel economy ratings of 27 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, offering a comfortable ride and a host of modern features alongside its impressive SUV MPG. For buyers seeking a distinctive and economical SUV, the Nissan Juke stands out.
3) 2014 Lexus RX Hybrid: Luxury Hybrid Leader
The 2014 Lexus RX Hybrid, the hybrid variant of Lexus’s popular midsize SUV, excels in fuel economy, power, and the luxury features synonymous with the Lexus brand. Lexus simplified the RX Hybrid lineup, offering it in a single trim level with customizable option packages. At its core is a 3.5-liter V-6 engine working in conjunction with two electric motors, delivering a combined 295 horsepower. The 2014 Lexus RX Hybrid achieves EPA fuel economy ratings of 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. While its highway MPG is slightly lower than some smaller vehicles on this list, its city MPG is exceptional for a luxury midsize SUV, especially considering its abundant features and refined driving experience. For discerning buyers wanting a luxury SUV with impressive gas mileage, the RX Hybrid is a top contender.
2) 2014 MINI Cooper Countryman: Fun and Fuel-Sipping MINI SUV
The MINI Cooper Countryman represents MINI’s foray into the compact SUV segment, resulting in a vehicle that’s both enjoyable to drive and remarkably fuel-efficient. The 2014 Cooper Countryman’s small size and 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine contribute to its excellent EPA fuel economy ratings of 28 mpg city and 35 mpg highway. The base Cooper Countryman’s engine produces a modest 121 horsepower, but the car’s overall charm and nimble handling compensate for its less powerful engine. It’s peppy, practical, and offers engaging road manners, embodying the MINI brand spirit where even the most fuel-efficient model feels premium and fun. For those wanting a compact SUV with great MPG and a unique personality, the MINI Cooper Countryman is a standout.
1) 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid: Top MPG and Standard All-Wheel Drive
The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid claims the top spot as the most fuel-efficient used SUV, thanks to its practical design and EPA ratings of 29 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. The XV Crosstrek Hybrid marked Subaru’s entry into hybrid technology, combining a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor for a combined output of 160 horsepower. While the hybrid version offers a modest MPG improvement over the standard gas-powered XV Crosstrek, it’s still a valuable addition to the Subaru lineup, especially considering it includes Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system as standard. With most competitors in this fuel-efficient SUV category offering front-wheel drive, the 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid provides exceptional fuel economy without sacrificing all-weather capability. For buyers prioritizing SUV MPG and all-wheel drive confidence, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid is the top choice.
