Looking for an SUV that won’t break the bank at the gas pump? You’re in the right place. As fuel efficiency becomes increasingly important, especially for larger vehicles, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 most gas-efficient SUVs on the market. These vehicles prove that you don’t have to sacrifice space and versatility for good gas mileage. Let’s dive into the SUVs that offer the best of both worlds, helping you save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
10. 2019 GMC Acadia
Starting at $29,000 – $47,500
20 MPG – Combined
The 2019 GMC Acadia enters our list as a solid option in the competitive mid-size SUV category. With a starting price under $30,000, it offers a compelling blend of space and economy. This SUV provides three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers, making it a practical choice for families. The Acadia balances size and fuel consumption, offering a combined fuel economy of 20 MPG. It’s a capable crossover that delivers reasonable gas mileage for its class and size, making it a smart choice for those needing passenger and cargo space without excessive fuel costs.
9. 2019 Dodge Durango
Starting at $30,445 – $63,245
15 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Dodge Durango is recognized for its value in the full-size SUV segment, starting around $30,000. While its combined MPG is listed at 15, it’s important to consider its classification as a full-size SUV, where fuel economy expectations are typically lower than compact or mid-size models. The Durango offers an 8-speed transmission for smoother driving, standard remote keyless entry for convenience, and three-zone automatic climate control, enhancing passenger comfort. For buyers prioritizing size and features in a robust SUV, the Durango presents a balance of capability and relative fuel efficiency within its category.
8. 2019 Subaru Ascent
Starting at $31,995 – $44,695
22 MPG – Combined
Subaru’s success with models like the Outback and Forester is mirrored in the 2019 Ascent, which boasts a combined 22 MPG. This SUV carries forward Subaru’s reputation for providing a comfortable, car-like driving experience in a larger vehicle. Despite its size, the Ascent offers easy handling and maneuverability, similar to smaller cars. This fuel efficiency, combined with Subaru’s known reliability and standard all-wheel drive, makes the Ascent a compelling choice for those seeking a family-friendly SUV that doesn’t compromise on gas mileage or driving dynamics.
7. 2019 Nissan Pathfinder
Starting at $31,530 – $44,560
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Nissan Pathfinder stands out for its balance of passenger capacity and fuel economy, achieving a combined 21 MPG. Historically, Pathfinders were designed as truck-like SUVs, but this model shifted towards a more crossover-oriented design, similar to the Toyota Highlander. This evolution has enhanced its on-road comfort and fuel efficiency, making it a practical option for families needing space without the bulkiness and fuel consumption of traditional truck-based SUVs. The Pathfinder provides a good value proposition in the three-row SUV market.
6. 2019 Honda Pilot
Starting at $31,450 – $48,020
22 MPG – Combined
The redesigned 2019 Honda Pilot crossover utility vehicle prioritizes interior comfort and versatility, achieving a combined 22 MPG. It’s designed with three rows of seating, reminiscent of a minivan in its spaciousness and passenger-friendly features, yet it maintains the desirable characteristics of an SUV. The Pilot focuses on providing a smooth and comfortable ride, ample passenger and cargo space, and respectable fuel economy, making it a strong contender for families looking for a practical and efficient SUV.
5. 2019 Chevrolet Traverse
Starting at $29,930 – $53,200
20 MPG – Combined
In the fiercely competitive SUV market, the 2019 Chevrolet Traverse is designed to stand out, offering a combined 20 MPG. GM has focused on making its SUV lineup compelling, and the Traverse achieves this by providing substantial interior space and a range of features. It competes in the large SUV segment, offering three rows and generous cargo capacity, while still maintaining reasonable fuel efficiency for its size. The Traverse is a solid option for buyers needing a large SUV without completely sacrificing gas mileage.
4. 2019 Chevrolet Blazer
Starting at $28,800 – $45,600
21 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Chevrolet Blazer, starting around $29,000, positions itself in the mid-size SUV segment with an appealing starting price and a combined 21 MPG. SUVs are inherently expected to be versatile, and the Blazer delivers on this expectation by offering a blend of style, utility, and efficiency. Its fuel economy is competitive within its class, making it an attractive option for those seeking a mid-size SUV that balances cost, features, and gas mileage. The Blazer is a versatile choice for everyday needs and longer drives.
3. 2019 Kia Sorento
Starting at $26,290 – $46,490
21 MPG – Combined
Competing in the crowded mid-size SUV segment, the 2019 Kia Sorento distinguishes itself with bold styling and a range of options, while also offering a combined 21 MPG. Kia has successfully made the Sorento a versatile and appealing choice. Its fuel efficiency is commendable for a mid-size SUV, and combined with its design and features, the Sorento stands out as a strong contender for buyers looking for both style and economy in their SUV purchase.
2. 2019 Mazda CX-9
Starting at $32,280 – $45,365
23 MPG – Combined
The 2019 Mazda CX-9 serves as Mazda’s flagship crossover SUV, offering seating for seven and a combined 23 MPG. It’s presented as an ideal vehicle for transporting both friends and family efficiently. Its fuel-efficient turbocharged engine is a key feature, enabling it to achieve better gas mileage than many competitors in its class. The CX-9 blends Mazda’s signature driving dynamics with practicality and fuel savings, making it a top choice for those who prioritize driving experience and efficiency in a larger SUV.
1. 2023 Mazda CX-5
Starting at $26,700 – $39,650
24 MPG – Combined
Topping our list is the 2023 Mazda CX-5, achieving a combined 24 MPG. It competes with popular models like the Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape, yet it distinguishes itself as one of the sportier driving options in the compact SUV category. Despite its fun-to-drive nature, it maintains surprisingly good fuel economy. The CX-5 excels in providing an engaging driving experience without sacrificing efficiency, making it our top pick for the most gas-efficient SUV. It’s a testament to Mazda’s engineering that blends performance and economy seamlessly.
Conclusion
Choosing a gas-efficient SUV doesn’t mean compromising on space or features. As demonstrated by these top 10 models, manufacturers are increasingly focused on delivering vehicles that are both practical and economical to run. From the compact Mazda CX-5 to the larger GMC Acadia, there are numerous options available to suit different needs and preferences. Consider these Top Gas Efficient Suvs when you’re looking to minimize fuel costs and maximize your mileage without sacrificing the versatility of an SUV.
