With the decline of diesel-powered models, hybrid SUVs have become the go-to choice for those seeking excellent fuel economy. However, not everyone can afford the high cost of electrified technology. Thankfully, there are still some SUVs on the market that offer impressive fuel efficiency without the added expense of a bulky battery pack.
The Leader in Overall Mileage: 2020 Nissan Kicks
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- Mileage: 33 mpg combined, 31 mpg city, 36 mpg highway.
- Who it’s for: Those who value fuel efficiency and don’t want to blend in.
- Price: $19,070.
Why choose the Nissan Kicks? It boasts better gas mileage than any other non-electrified SUV on the market. Plus, with a starting price of around $19,000, it’s an affordable choice. Even when opting for the top trim and adding packages and options, the total cost remains well below $25,000. According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost is only about $950. The Kicks is a thrifty all-around option.
While the Kicks may have sluggish acceleration, it compensates with its spacious cargo area. It also comes equipped with Safety Shield 360, a full suite of safety features like automatic emergency braking and rear cross-traffic alert.
To enjoy the NissanConnect infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, you’ll need to upgrade to a higher trim level. Nevertheless, the price remains affordable. And for those who appreciate a unique aesthetic, the Color Studio offers additional design accents for the 2020 Nissan Kicks.
The Luxury SUV with the Best Mileage: 2020 Lexus UX 200
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- Mileage: 33 mpg combined, 29 mpg city, 37 mpg highway.
- Who it’s for: Drivers who desire both creature comforts and fuel efficiency.
- Price: $32,300.
Why choose the Lexus UX 200? This luxury crossover delivers the same combined fuel economy as the Nissan Kicks, but with its upscale interior and stylish design, it provides an added level of sophistication. The base price is approximately $32,000, and the annual fuel cost is on par with the Kicks at $950.
The infotainment system of the UX 200 includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Additionally, it comes standard with Safety System+ 2.0, featuring advanced features like traffic sign recognition and lane trace assist to enhance driving safety.
While the UX 200 may not have the fastest acceleration, its smooth ride and compact size make it a suitable choice for navigating narrow urban streets and parking garages without the typical anxiety-inducing experience.
The Three-Row SUV with the Best Mileage: 2020 Kia Sorento
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- Mileage: 25 mpg combined, 22 mpg city, 29 mpg highway.
- Who it’s for: Drivers who frequently transport multiple passengers and seek decent fuel efficiency.
- Price: $26,990.
Why choose the Kia Sorento? Despite its three rows, this seven-seat SUV offers commendable fuel economy. Starting at an affordable $27,000, the Sorento provides a practical and economical option for families. The estimated annual cost for gas is around $1,300.
The Sorento features Kia’s user-friendly UVO infotainment system, complete with crisp graphics, physical knobs, buttons, and a touchscreen. While advanced driver assistance features are available, they aren’t included as standard in the base model. The Sorento also boasts strong predicted reliability scores, safety ratings, and Kia’s generous warranty.
The Family SUV with the Best Mileage: 2020 Honda CR-V
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- Mileage: 30 mpg combined, 28 mpg city, 34 mpg highway.
- Who it’s for: Families in search of a fuel-efficient and reliable small SUV.
- Price: $25,150.
Why choose the Honda CR-V? As the latest addition to Honda’s successful line of compact SUVs, the CR-V offers exceptional fuel economy and a starting price around $25,000. The estimated annual fuel cost is $1,050, making it an affordable choice for families.
The CR-V provides ample interior space, yet maintains the maneuverability of a typical sedan. It comes standard with Honda Sensing, the brand’s comprehensive suite of safety technology. The interior offers excellent value for money, although the base infotainment system lacks some features. Upgrading to higher trims provides smartphone connectivity, a touchscreen, and wireless charging. Compared to its rivals, the 2020 Honda CR-V delivers a more enjoyable driving experience.
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