SUVs With Best MPG of 2022

Best SUV gas mileage

With all the new technology available to us, cars now achieve never before dreamed of mileage figures. The advent of the hybrid powertrain has been a particularly impressive leap forward in this area. Thanks to this, heavier machines such as crossovers can travel further than small sedans could a couple of decades ago, though they’ll never be the most efficient machines of all time.

These more practical family haulers may never be quite as economical as their smaller contemporaries. However, it is still possible to reach over 100 miles per gallon in the combined cycle, but only a select few have managed this impressive feat, such as the Kia Niro EV and the Hyundai Kona EV, which get the top mpg in this rather broad segment. Still, their compact nature means they are not as practical. But, to claim they have the best gas mileage is a bit of a misnomer, since they run purely on electricity.

Fuel efficient SUVs

The majority of models on the market fall quite short of the top-rated all-electric forerunners. However, within this category, you’re unlikely to find any options that disappoint. There are some more honorable mentions, such as the Audi e-tron. While not reaching the 100 mpg mark, it is still our top scorer. Better still, in terms of range alone, is the Jaguar I-Pace. It achieves an EPA-estimated 80/72/76 mpg for city/highway/combined cycles; though it scores half a point lower overall in our books, it is near the top of the list of SUVs with good gas mileage.

But, mileage is not all there is to efficiency. Sometimes, just keeping costs down is enough. To this end, many automakers have equipped their more popular nameplates with MHEV systems. Their overall mileage has not been improved dramatically, but the cost of running them is much lower. Some noteworthy names include the acclaimed Honda CR-V and the ever-popular Ford Escape, which both still boast pretty good SUV mpg of 40/35/38 and 43/37/40, respectively.

If non-traditional automobiles are not your cup of green tea, though, there are plenty of great pure gasoline, or even diesel, choices out there. If the initial capital outlay is a prime factor for you, cheaper options such as the Honda HR-V, Nissan Kicks, and Mazda CX-3 still boast combined numbers of over 30 mpg. That is certainly nothing to be ashamed of.

While not the SUVs with the best mpg figures, some worthy mentions include:

• Lexus UX
• Subaru Crosstek
• Kia Soul EV

Advantages and Disadvantages to Going Green

Pros

• Eco-friendly - Naturally, these powertrains have lower carbon emissions. Eco-conscious consumers will find this highly appealing.
• Excellent fuel economy - Part from just sparing the environment, these machines also spare your wallet.
• Progressive - Hybrid and electric vehicles were once oddities on the road. Now, they are becoming more commonplace, and not driving one is a sign that you have not moved with the times.
• Access to AWD - It is rare to see a crossover that does not at least offer AWD. This makes them more versatile and able to handle road conditions that two-wheel-drive automobiles struggle with.

Cons

• Expensive - While you may save more in the long run, many consumers cannot afford the higher initial capital outlay that these machines ask for.
• Less fun - The focus on efficiency means that quick acceleration and overall fun are not areas of focus.
• High maintenance - Hybrids have complicated systems that are pricey to repair. This only further impacts their affordability.

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