SUVs have long had a bad reputation for being the gas guzzlers of vehicles. The general perception is that SUV models waste gas, and then give their drivers no choice but to spend a huge portion of their paycheck filling up the tank. For a time, no one was interested in driving a fuel-inefficient SUV, particularly when gas prices escalated to alarming rates in the early 2000s.
However, things have changed since then. While it once seemed possible that SUVs were at the end of their lifespan, SUV brands have acknowledged the negativity surrounding the sporty car model’s image and have changed it for the better. Today, the new SUV is a much more responsible vehicle to drive, both economically and ecologically.
Automakers have acknowledged that it is their responsibility to produce cars that are both economically-sound and demand less gas consumption. Rather than stopping to offer SUVs to drivers, SUV automakers are instead competing against each other to see which brand can make the most fuel-efficient crossover.
If you’re interested in driving an SUV, you will definitely want to take a look at the newer models. These latest vehicles are designed with the space and features you love, and will surely save you money on gas consumption.
Check out these 6 fuel-efficient SUVs that are rocking the market right now.
Nissan Rogue
This vehicle may look like an SUV, but it’s actually a compact car with stout features and sits at an appealing price of $26,480. With the capacity to seat 5 people and equipped with a 170 bhp engine, this ride could take you on any road trip you wish. While it may not be quite as powerful as the traditional SUV, the Rogue boasts fuel efficiency and is agile enough to run 26 mpg in metropolitan settings and 33 mpg on the highway in 2WD.
The Nissan Rogue is the ideal crossover SUV for those in an urban setting. Just don’t expect too haul too much with it, as it is limited to a tow capacity of 1000 lbs.
Honda CR-V
The CR-V is technically a compact, but has remarkable fuel economy and admirable features spread across all three LX, EX and EX-L models. Priced at $26,950, it is slightly more expensive than other SUV models, but offers more than the typical SUV driver could ask for.
If you’re on the hunt for efficiency, opt for the 1.5-liter turbo engine. This will up the price a little, but you will make your money back every time you go to fill up the tank. Expect to run at 27 mpg in metropolitan areas and 33 mpg on the highway.
The towing capacity on all Honda CR-Vs sits at 1500 lbs, which isn’t the highest capacity around, but is still respectable within its own category. The CR-V is favored by the motoring press in compact SUV group tests.
Mazda CX-5
The CX-5 outshines its competition in both appearance and durability. With an ultra sleek design, this SUV is also a powerhouse with its 2.5L, 16-cylinder engine that pumps 187 bhp and 185 lb-ft of torque. With its ability to run at 24 mpg in metropolitan areas and 31 mpg on the highway, this fully-featured SUV doesn’t feel like a compromise.
Pricing for the CX-5 starts at $24,045 for the Sport model, while the Touring, Grand Select and Grand Touring models are all priced closer to $30,000. One of the CR-X’s best features is its towing power: even the Sport (the most basic model) is able to tow up to an impressive 2000 lbs.
Ford Escape
The Ford Escape is a best-seller of astronomical proportions. This all-star SUV is priced affordably at $25,605, and runs at 23 mpg in metropolitan areas and 30 mpg on the highway, giving it great economical value.
This compact crossover is a smart choice for an SUV, and second in Ford’s best-selling lineup behind the F-Series truck. This model is also incredibly durable, able to tow up to 3500 lbs with the 2-liter engine.
Audi Q3
It’s true: Audis come with a hefty price tag – usually. However, the Q3 model is surprisingly affordable at a fairly-priced $32,900. This model is a crossover rather than a full-blown SUV, and is built on the A3 platform. For those image-conscious buyers, this model is equipped with the premium badge.
The 2-liter engine TFSI engine runs 23 mpg in metropolitan areas and 28 mpg on the highway. There’s also the premium interior, as well as 200 bhp and a relatively huge 207 lb.-ft. of torque to compensate for its marginally lower fuel efficiency, allowing it to to up to 2,200 lbs.
Kia Sportage
The Kia Sportage doesn’t hit the highest mark in efficiency, but is a total SUV bargain with a price tag of $23,500. The engine runs at 181 bhp with 175 lb.-ft. of torque, however this vehicle has its losses in the fact that it can only return 23 mpg in metropolitan areas and 30 mpg on the highway.
Kia’s SUV may not be the highest-class SUV on the market, but it is certainly well-equipped with tech and a commendable 7-year warranty. In terms of durability, this SUV is also a keeper: it’s able to tow up to 2,000 lbs, giving it a rugged edge over its competitors.
Buy New And Save More, Really
Usually, buying secondhand or older models of cars makes sense financially. However, in the case of SUVs, the newer you buy, the more you’ll end up saving. Not only are the newer SUV models fairly priced, they have been redesigned for fuel efficiency, meaning that you’ll continue to save money with your car even at the gas pump.
