Top 10 Used SUVs with Best Gas Mileage: Our Expert Picks for 2023
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The Quest for Fuel Efficiency in Pre-Owned SUVs: In today’s automotive landscape, where practicality and environmental consciousness intersect, a growing number of consumers are seeking out SUVs that don’t just offer ample space and versatility but also impressive fuel efficiency.
For those who are eco-aware yet budget-conscious, the market for used SUVs with commendable gas mileage presents a harmonious blend of value and sustainability.
Using our expert insights, we’ve gone deep into the vast universe of pre-owned vehicles to bring you a curated list of the most fuel-efficient SUVs that have previously hit the roads.
Whether you’re a family-oriented buyer or a solo adventurer, read on to discover the best choices that don’t compromise on miles per gallon.
Understanding SUVs and Fuel Economy
When it comes to choosing a used SUV, fuel economy is an important factor to consider. SUVs are known for their size and power, but they can also be gas guzzlers.
However, there are many SUVs available on the market that offer excellent fuel economy without sacrificing performance.
Fuel economy is measured in miles per gallon (mpg), which is the number of miles a vehicle can travel on one gallon of gas.
The higher the mpg, the more fuel-efficient the vehicle is. This means you’ll spend less on gas and reduce your carbon footprint.
SUVs typically have lower fuel economy than smaller cars due to their larger size and weight. However, advancements in technology have made it possible for SUVs to be more fuel-efficient than ever before.
Many SUVs now come with hybrid or electric powertrains offering even better fuel economy.
When considering fuel economy, it’s important to also take into account fuel costs.
While a more fuel-efficient SUV may cost more upfront, it can save you money in the long run on fuel costs. This is especially true if you plan on driving your SUV frequently or for long distances.
To help you choose a fuel-efficient SUV, here is a table of the top 10 used SUVs with the best gas mileage, according to CARFAX and MotorTrend:
| SUV Model | MPG (City/Highway/Combined) |
|---|---|
| 2017-2022 Kia Niro | 51/46/49 |
| 2017-2022 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | 41/38/40 |
| 2017-2022 Lexus NX Hybrid | 33/30/31 |
| 2017-2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid | 40/35/38 |
| 2017-2022 Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid | 90 MPGe |
| 2017-2022 Ford Escape Hybrid | 44/37/41 |
| 2017-2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 36/35/36 |
| 2017-2022 Lexus RX Hybrid | 31/28/30 |
| 2017-2022 Toyota Venza Hybrid | 40/37/39 |
| 2017-2022 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV | 74 MPGe |
As you can see, hybrid SUVs dominate the list for best gas mileage. However, it’s important to note that electric vehicles (EVs) offer even better fuel economy and zero emissions.
If you’re looking for a truly eco-friendly SUV, consider an EV like the Tesla Model X or Ford Mustang Mach-E.
Top 10 Used SUVs with Best Gas Mileage
If you’re in the market for a used SUV, fuel efficiency is likely a top priority. Fortunately, there are plenty of options available that offer great gas mileage without sacrificing performance or style.
Here are the top 10 used SUVs with the best gas mileage, based on a combination of expert reviews, consumer ratings, and fuel economy ratings from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
| Rank | SUV Model | MPG (City/Hwy) | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2017-2018 Kia Niro | 51/46 | $16,000 – $22,000 |
| 2 | 2017-2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | 34/30 | $20,000 – $26,000 |
| 3 | 2017-2018 Lexus NX Hybrid | 33/30 | $27,000 – $34,000 |
| 4 | 2017-2018 Honda CR-V | 28/34 | $18,000 – $24,000 |
| 5 | 2017-2018 Mazda CX-5 | 26/33 | $17,000 – $23,000 |
| 6 | 2017-2018 Subaru Crosstrek | 27/33 | $18,000 – $23,000 |
| 7 | 2017-2018 Nissan Rogue Hybrid | 33/35 | $19,000 – $25,000 |
| 8 | 2017-2018 Chevrolet Equinox Diesel | 28/39 | $20,000 – $27,000 |
| 9 | 2017-2018 BMW X1 | 23/32 | $23,000 – $30,000 |
| 10 | 2017-2018 Audi Q5 | 23/27 | $28,000 – $35,000 |
- 2017-2018 Kia Niro: This hybrid SUV tops our list with an impressive 51 mpg in the city and 46 mpg on the highway. The Niro is a great option for those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle without breaking the bank. Plus, it has a spacious interior and a comfortable ride.
- 2017-2018 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid: The RAV4 Hybrid is a popular choice for those who want a reliable and fuel-efficient SUV. It gets 34 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for both city and highway driving.
- 2017-2018 Lexus NX Hybrid: The NX Hybrid combines luxury and fuel efficiency with its 33 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. It has a spacious and comfortable interior, making it a great option for families.
- 2017-2018 Honda CR-V: The CR-V is a versatile SUV that offers a comfortable ride and plenty of cargo space. It gets 28 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for those who want a fuel-efficient SUV that can handle both city and highway driving.
- 2017-2018 Mazda CX-5: The CX-5 is a stylish and fun-to-drive SUV that also happens to be fuel-efficient. It gets 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for those who want a sporty SUV that won’t break the bank.
- 2017-2018 Subaru Crosstrek: The Crosstrek is a rugged and versatile SUV that offers great fuel economy. It gets 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for those who want an SUV that can handle off-road adventures.
- 2017-2018 Nissan Rogue Hybrid: The Rogue Hybrid is a fuel-efficient SUV that also happens to be spacious and comfortable. It gets 33 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for families who want a fuel-efficient vehicle.
- 2017-2018 Chevrolet Equinox Diesel: The Equinox Diesel is a great option for those who want an SUV that is both fuel-efficient and powerful. It gets 28 mpg in the city and 39 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market.
- 2017-2018 BMW X1: The X1 is a luxury SUV that offers great fuel economy. It gets 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, making it a great option for those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle that also offers plenty of luxury features.
- 2017-2018 Audi Q5: The Q5 is a stylish and luxurious SUV that also
Compact and Subcompact SUVs
If you are looking for a used SUV that is compact and fuel-efficient, you might want to consider a subcompact SUV.
These vehicles are smaller in size, which means they are easier to maneuver and park, and they also tend to be more fuel-efficient than their larger counterparts.
According to the EPA, some of the most fuel-efficient subcompact SUVs on the market today include the Mazda CX-3, Honda HR-V, Nissan Juke, and Kia Soul.
These vehicles all have combined fuel economy ratings of 30 MPG or higher, which makes them a great choice if you are looking to save money on gas.
Here is a table that compares the fuel economy ratings of these four subcompact SUVs:
| Vehicle | Combined MPG |
|---|---|
| Mazda CX-3 | 31 MPG |
| Honda HR-V | 30 MPG |
| Nissan Juke | 30 MPG |
| Kia Soul | 30 MPG |
As you can see, these vehicles are all very similar when it comes to fuel economy. However, each one has its own unique features and benefits that make it worth considering.
For example, the Mazda CX-3 is known for its sporty handling and sleek design, while the Honda HR-V is praised for its spacious interior and versatile cargo space.
The Nissan Juke is known for its quirky styling and fun-to-drive nature, and the Kia Soul is appreciated for its funky design and long list of standard features.
Ultimately, the best subcompact SUV for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
But if you are looking for a fuel-efficient and practical vehicle, one of these four options is definitely worth considering.
Midsize and Full-Size SUVs
Consider a midsize or full-size SUV if you’re looking for a larger SUV that still gets good gas mileage.
These vehicles may not be as efficient as their smaller counterparts but often offer more space and power.
One popular midsize SUV with good gas mileage is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid. According to CarMax, the 2017 model gets an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. The Highlander Hybrid also has a spacious interior and a smooth ride.
Another midsize SUV to consider is the Nissan Murano. The 2018 model gets an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, according to MotorTrend. The Murano also has a comfortable ride and a stylish interior.
If you’re looking for a larger SUV, the Ford Edge is a good option. The 2018 model gets an estimated 21 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, according to CarFax.
The Edge also has a spacious cabin and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Finally, the Chevrolet Equinox is another larger SUV with good gas mileage.
The 2018 model gets an estimated 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, according to MotorTrend. The Equinox also has a comfortable ride and a large cargo area.
When possible, tables can help compare different SUVs.
Here is a table comparing the gas mileage and starting prices of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Nissan Murano, Ford Edge, and Chevrolet Equinox:
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 29 | 27 | $37,030 |
| Nissan Murano | 21 | 28 | $31,780 |
| Ford Edge | 21 | 29 | $29,995 |
| Chevrolet Equinox | 22 | 29 | $23,580 |
Hybrid and Electric SUVs
If you’re looking for an SUV that’s easy on the wallet regarding fuel costs, you might want to consider a hybrid or electric SUV.
These types of vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. They offer great gas mileage, which can save you money in the long run, and they’re also better for the environment.
One of the most popular hybrid SUVs on the market is the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid. This SUV has a combined fuel economy of 40 mpg, which is excellent for an SUV. It also has a spacious interior, making it a great choice for families.
Another great option is the Ford Escape Hybrid. This SUV has a combined fuel economy of 41 mpg, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market.
It also has a comfortable and spacious interior, making it a great choice for long road trips.
If you’re looking for a luxury hybrid SUV, then you might want to consider the Lexus NX Hybrid or the Lexus RX Hybrid.
Both of these SUVs offer a comfortable and luxurious interior, as well as excellent fuel economy. The NX Hybrid has a combined fuel economy of 31 mpg, while the RX Hybrid has a combined fuel economy of 30 mpg.
When it comes to electric SUVs, the Tesla Model X is one of the most popular options. This SUV has a range of up to 371 miles on a single charge, making it perfect for long road trips.
It also has a spacious interior and plenty of high-tech features.
Here’s a table summarizing the fuel economy of the hybrid and electric SUVs mentioned above:
| SUV Model | Combined Fuel Economy |
|---|---|
| Toyota RAV4 Hybrid | 40 mpg |
| Ford Escape Hybrid | 41 mpg |
| Lexus NX Hybrid | 31 mpg |
| Lexus RX Hybrid | 30 mpg |
| Tesla Model X | Electric (371-mile range) |
As you can see, there are plenty of great options when it comes to hybrid and electric SUVs. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a luxury SUV, there’s something out there for everyone.
Value and Ownership Costs
When it comes to purchasing a used SUV, value and ownership costs are important factors to consider.
You want to make sure that you are getting a budget-friendly vehicle that won’t break the bank in terms of ownership costs.
One of the most important factors to consider is the transaction price of the SUV. You want to make sure that you are getting a good deal and not overpaying for the vehicle.
To help you make an informed decision, we have created a table below that shows the average transaction price for some of the top used SUVs with the best gas mileage.
| SUV Model | Average Transaction Price |
|---|---|
| Kia Niro | $16,000 – $21,000 |
| Honda CR-V | $14,000 – $20,000 |
| Toyota RAV4 | $15,000 – $21,000 |
| Subaru Forester | $14,000 – $20,000 |
Another important factor to consider is the cost of insurance. You want to make sure that you are getting a vehicle that is affordable to insure.
The cost of insurance will vary depending on the SUV model, your driving history, and other factors.
Maintenance costs are also an important factor to consider. You want to ensure that you are getting a reliable vehicle that won’t require costly repairs.
To help you make an informed decision, we have created a table below that shows the average maintenance costs for some of the top used SUVs with the best gas mileage.
| SUV Model | Average Maintenance Costs |
|---|---|
| Kia Niro | $400 – $600 per year |
| Honda CR-V | $500 – $700 per year |
| Toyota RAV4 | $500 – $800 per year |
| Subaru Forester | $500 – $700 per year |
When purchasing a used SUV with the best gas mileage, it’s important to consider both the value and ownership costs.
By doing your research and comparing different SUV models, you can find a budget-friendly vehicle that won’t break the bank in terms of ownership costs.
Reliability and Safety Ratings
Reliability and safety are key factors to consider when looking for a used SUV.
You want a vehicle that will last you for years to come and keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Luckily, there are several resources available to help you find the most reliable and safe used SUVs.
One of the most well-known resources for vehicle reliability is J.D. Power. They provide a dependability rating for each vehicle model based on the number of problems reported by owners.
This rating can give you an idea of how likely a vehicle will experience issues. You can use this information to narrow down your list of potential used SUVs.
Another important factor to consider is safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) both provide safety ratings for vehicles.
The IIHS awards Top Safety Pick vehicles that perform well in crash tests and have advanced safety features. The NHTSA provides an overall five-star safety rating based on crash test results.
When shopping for a used SUV, looking for models that have earned these safety awards and ratings is important.
This will give you peace of mind knowing that you and your passengers are protected in the event of an accident.
Here is a table that highlights some of the most reliable and safe used SUVs on the market:
| Make and Model | J.D. Power Dependability Rating | IIHS Top Safety Pick Award | NHTSA Overall Safety Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kia Niro | 5/5 | Yes | 5/5 |
| Toyota RAV4 | 4/5 | Yes | 5/5 |
| Honda CR-V | 4/5 | Yes | 5/5 |
| Mazda CX-5 | 4/5 | Yes | 5/5 |
| Subaru Forester | 4/5 | Yes | 5/5 |
Keep in mind that these ratings are just one factor to consider when shopping for a used SUV.
You should also consider your personal preferences and needs, such as cargo space, fuel efficiency, and driving style.
With the right research and preparation, you can find a reliable and safe used SUV that meets all of your needs.
Specific Model Reviews
If you are looking for a used SUV with the best gas mileage, you may want to consider some specific models. Here are some reviews of popular models that have good fuel efficiency:
Honda CR-V
The Honda CR-V is a reliable and popular SUV that has been around for many years. It has a spacious interior, good safety ratings, and excellent fuel economy.
According to Autotrader, the 2010 Honda CR-V (EX-L with Navigation) has an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Honda CR-V Hybrid getting up to 38 mpg on the highway.
Toyota RAV4
The Toyota RAV4 is another popular SUV that has good fuel efficiency. It has a comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and excellent reliability.
According to CARFAX, the 2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has an EPA rating of 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Toyota RAV4 Prime reaching 94 MPGe.
Read More: How Reliable Is A Toyota RAV4 Hybrid? (And Which Years To Avoid)
Hyundai Santa Fe
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV with a stylish design, comfortable ride, and good fuel efficiency.
According to MotorTrend, the 2014 Hyundai Santa Fe Sport has an EPA rating of 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid reaching 36 mpg on the highway.
Nissan Rogue
The Nissan Rogue is a compact SUV that has a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel efficiency.
According to CARFAX, the 2016 Nissan Rogue Hybrid has an EPA rating of 31 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Nissan Rogue Hybrid getting up to 35 mpg on the highway.
Buick Encore
The Buick Encore is a subcompact SUV that has a luxurious cabin, comfortable ride, and good fuel efficiency.
According to MotorTrend, the 2014 Buick Encore has an EPA rating of 25 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Buick Encore GX getting up to 32 mpg on the highway.
Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 is a stylish SUV that has a sporty driving experience, upscale interior, and good fuel efficiency.
According to CARFAX, the 2016 Mazda CX-5 has an EPA rating of 26 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Mazda CX-5 getting up to 31 mpg on the highway.
Hyundai Tucson
The Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that has a comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel efficiency.
According to MotorTrend, the 2014 Hyundai Tucson has an EPA rating of 23 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
The newer models have even better fuel economy, with the 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid getting up to 38 mpg on the highway.
When possible, creating tables to illustrate your point can be helpful.
Performance and Style
When it comes to choosing a used SUV with the best gas mileage, you don’t have to sacrifice performance and style.
Many SUVs on the market offer both, making them a great choice for those who want a fuel-efficient vehicle without sacrificing power or looks.
One important factor to consider is acceleration. While SUVs are typically not known for their quick acceleration, some models offer better acceleration than others.
For example, the 2018 Mazda CX-5 has a 0-60 mph time of 7.7 seconds, making it one of the quickest SUVs in its class.
If you’re looking for a V6 engine, the 2016 Toyota Highlander is a great choice. It comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 270 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the most powerful SUVs on this list.
Style is another important factor to consider when choosing a used SUV. Many SUVs offer sleek and modern designs that are sure to turn heads.
The 2017 Kia Niro, for example, has an upscale cabin and a low entry price, making it a great choice for those who want a stylish SUV without breaking the bank.
All-wheel drive is also an important feature to consider, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions.
The 2018 Honda CR-V offers all-wheel drive as an option, making it a great choice for those who want a fuel-efficient SUV that can handle any weather condition.
When choosing a used SUV with the best gas mileage, consider factors such as acceleration, V6 engines, style, and all-wheel drive.
Considering these factors, you can find a fuel-efficient SUV that meets your performance and style needs.
| Model | Acceleration (0-60 mph) | Engine | All-Wheel Drive | Style |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018 Mazda CX-5 | 7.7 seconds | 4-cylinder | Optional | Sleek and modern |
| 2016 Toyota Highlander | 7.6 seconds | V6 | Optional | Bold and muscular |
| 2017 Kia Niro | 8.6 seconds | Hybrid | Not available | Upscale and modern |
| 2018 Honda CR-V | 7.5 seconds | 4-cylinder | Optional | Sporty and aerodynamic |
Comfort and Convenience Features
When it comes to choosing a used SUV, comfort and convenience features are important considerations.
Whether you’re looking for a family vehicle or a daily driver, you want a vehicle that will make your life easier and more comfortable. Here are some of the features you should look for when shopping for a used SUV.
Passenger Space
One of an SUV’s biggest advantages is its passenger space. If you have a large family or frequently transport passengers, you’ll want to look for a vehicle with ample seating.
Some models offer third-row seating, which can be a huge plus if you need to accommodate more than five passengers.
Be sure to check the legroom and headroom measurements to ensure that everyone will be comfortable.
Cargo Space
Another advantage of an SUV is the cargo space it provides.
If you frequently haul large items or need to transport a lot of gear, you’ll want to look for a vehicle with plenty of cargo space.
Some models offer folding seats or a power liftgate, which can make loading and unloading easier.
Climate Control
Automatic climate control is a must-have feature for many drivers.
This feature allows you to set a desired temperature and the vehicle will adjust the heating or cooling as needed to maintain that temperature.
Some models even offer dual-zone automatic climate control, which allows the driver and front passenger to set different temperatures.
Safety Features
Many used SUVs come with a variety of safety features designed to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
Features like forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control can help prevent accidents and reduce the severity of collisions.
Upholstery
Leather upholstery is a popular feature in many luxury SUVs. It’s durable, easy to clean, and adds a touch of sophistication to the interior.
If you’re on a budget, synthetic leather upholstery can be a more affordable alternative.
Heated Seats
Heated front seats are a great feature to have on chilly mornings. Some models even offer heated rear seats, which can be a big plus for passengers.
Infotainment
Many modern SUVs come with a touchscreen infotainment system that allows you to control the audio, climate, and navigation systems from a central location.
Some models even offer your phone a USB port or wireless charging pad.
When shopping for a used SUV, be sure to take the time to consider which features are most important to you.
By doing so, you’ll be able to find a vehicle that meets your needs and makes your daily commute more comfortable and convenient.
Related Reading
- What Is The Best Used SUV To Buy With High Mileage?
- What Large SUV Gets the Best Gas Mileage?
- What Is The Best Used SUV To Buy For Your Money?
- What is the Best Used Hybrid SUV to Buy?
- Which Midsize SUVs Use Regular Gas
- What Midsize SUV Gets the Best Gas Mileage (Revealed!)
- What Small SUV Gets the Best Gas Mileage?
- What Hybrid SUV Gets the Best Gas Mileage?
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most fuel-efficient SUVs available on the used car market?
Some of the most fuel-efficient SUVs available on the used car market include the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, Kia Niro, Nissan Rogue Hybrid, Honda CR-V Hybrid, and Subaru Crosstrek Hybrid. These vehicles offer excellent gas mileage and are a great choice for those looking to save money at the pump.
What are the top-rated SUVs for gas mileage and reliability?
The top-rated SUVs for gas mileage and reliability include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Subaru Forester, and Kia Sportage. These vehicles offer excellent gas mileage and are known for their reliability, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable SUV.
Which midsize SUVs offer the best gas mileage for their class?
Some midsize SUVs offering the best gas mileage for their class include the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, Honda Pilot, Subaru Ascent, and Mazda CX-9. These vehicles offer excellent gas mileage and are a great choice for those looking for a spacious SUV that is also fuel-efficient.
What are some of the best older SUV models with good gas mileage?
Some of the best older SUV models with good gas mileage include the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Subaru Forester. These vehicles are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a used SUV that won’t break the bank.
Can you recommend any luxury SUVs with good gas mileage?
Some luxury SUVs with good gas mileage include the Lexus NX Hybrid, Audi Q5 Hybrid, BMW X3 Hybrid, and Volvo XC60 Hybrid. These vehicles offer excellent gas mileage and are a great choice for those looking for a luxurious SUV that is also fuel-efficient.
Are there any cheap used SUVs that offer good gas mileage?
Some cheap used SUVs that offer good gas mileage include the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. These vehicles are known for their reliability and fuel efficiency, making them a great choice for anyone looking for a used SUV that won’t break the bank.