Looking for an SUV that won’t break the bank at the gas pump? With rising fuel costs, choosing a fuel-efficient SUV is a smart move for families and individuals alike. SUVs offer the space and versatility many drivers need, but they don’t have to come with terrible gas mileage. This list highlights ten of the best SUVs that combine fuel efficiency with the practicality and comfort you expect. While these models are from 2019-2023, they remain excellent choices for those prioritizing MPG without sacrificing SUV benefits. Let’s explore the top contenders in the fuel-efficient SUV category.
10. 2019 GMC Acadia
Starting at $29,000 – $47,500
20 MPG – Combined
The 2019 GMC Acadia enters a competitive mid-size SUV market with a starting price under $30,000. This SUV offers three rows, accommodating up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for larger families. Beyond its spacious interior, the Acadia balances size with reasonable fuel economy, achieving 20 MPG combined. This makes it a more fuel-conscious option in its class, especially for drivers who need the extra seating but want to keep gas costs in check.
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9. 2019 Dodge Durango
Starting at $30,445 – $63,245
15 MPG – Combined
Priced from around $30,000, the 2019 Dodge Durango presents itself as a value proposition in the full-size SUV segment. While its 15 MPG combined fuel economy isn’t class-leading, it’s noteworthy for a vehicle of its size and capability. The Durango comes equipped with an 8-speed transmission, standard remote keyless entry, and three-zone climate control, offering a blend of convenience and features that enhance the driving experience despite its lower MPG compared to smaller SUVs.
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8. 2019 Subaru Ascent
Starting at $31,995 – $44,695
22 MPG – Combined
Subaru’s success with the Outback and Forester models carries over into the 2019 Ascent, a larger SUV maintaining Subaru’s reputation for driver-friendly vehicles. The Ascent delivers a comfortable, car-like driving experience, defying typical SUV handling expectations. Achieving 22 MPG combined, the Ascent balances the need for a larger SUV with a focus on fuel efficiency, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more economical three-row vehicle with Subaru’s signature driving dynamics.
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7. 2019 Nissan Pathfinder
Starting at $31,530 – $44,560
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder provides a compelling combination of passenger capacity and fuel economy. While earlier Pathfinder models were more rugged, truck-based SUVs, this iteration shifts towards a more fuel-efficient crossover design. With 21 MPG combined, the Pathfinder offers a good balance, making it a practical and economical choice for families needing space without the excessive fuel consumption often associated with larger SUVs.
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6. 2019 Honda Pilot
Starting at $31,450 – $48,020
22 MPG – Combined
The redesigned 2019 Honda Pilot prioritizes interior comfort and versatility, positioning itself as a family-friendly crossover SUV. It boasts three rows of seating, rivaling minivans in passenger space, while still incorporating the sought-after SUV styling. Achieving 22 MPG combined, the Pilot is a fuel-efficient option within the three-row SUV category, appealing to buyers who need ample space and reasonable gas mileage.
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5. 2019 Chevrolet Traverse
Starting at $29,930 – $53,200
20 MPG – Combined
The SUV segment has become intensely competitive, and the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is GM’s strong contender in this market. The Traverse distinguishes itself by offering substantial interior space and practical features. With a combined MPG of 20, it provides a balance of size and fuel efficiency, making it a viable option for buyers who need a larger SUV but are also mindful of fuel consumption.
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4. 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
Starting at $28,800 – $45,600
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, starting around $29,000, competes in the mid-size SUV category with an attractive lower-than-average starting price. SUVs are expected to be versatile, and the Blazer aims to deliver on this expectation while also offering decent fuel economy. Achieving 21 MPG combined, it strikes a good balance between SUV practicality and fuel efficiency, appealing to buyers looking for a versatile and economical mid-size option.
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3. 2019 Kia Sorento
Starting at $26,290 – $46,490
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Kia Sorento competes in the highly populated mid-size SUV segment. Fortunately for Kia, the Sorento manages to stand out with its striking design and a wide range of available features, adding to its versatility. With a fuel economy of 21 MPG combined, the Sorento is a compelling option for buyers who prioritize both style and fuel efficiency in a mid-size SUV.
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2. 2019 Mazda CX-9
Starting at $32,280 – $45,365
23 MPG – Combined
Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV, the 2019 CX-9, offers seating for seven, making it ideal for families and group travel. Its fuel-efficient turbocharged engine is a key highlight, enabling it to achieve 23 MPG combined. This fuel economy, combined with Mazda’s reputation for engaging driving dynamics, makes the CX-9 a top choice for those seeking a balance of space, driving pleasure, and fuel savings in a larger SUV.
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1. 2023 Mazda CX-5
Starting at $26,700 – $39,650
24 MPG – Combined
The 2023 Mazda CX-5 competes in a crowded segment against popular models like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. Even among these strong competitors, the CX-5 stands out as one of the sportier and more engaging SUVs to drive. Its surprisingly good fuel economy of 24 MPG combined further enhances its appeal, making it the top pick for drivers who want a fun-to-drive, fuel-efficient SUV in the compact category.
