Most Fuel Efficient SUV
When searching for the most fuel efficient SUV, many potential buyers immediately discount the SUV as a potential option because of the false conception that all SUVs are gas-guzzling monsters that are entirely impractical.
Many SUVs, despite common presuppositions, do actually obtain relatively good gas mileage, and though a compact car would be the obvious choice if gas mileage is the only deciding factor for the purchase, an efficient SUV offers versatility, durability, protection in an accident, and style, all while continuing to maintain decent gas mileage.
Before purchasing an SUV though, it is absolutely necessary to do some research on potential options, because many SUVs, like the common stereotype, do consume inordinate amounts of gas. Below is a list of the top five SUVs on the market right now. This list, for the sake of convenience, is based on the fuel efficiency of the vehicles, but takes into account other advantages in the description.
1. 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid, City/Highway MPG, 34/31
Though pricey, starting around $30,000 dollars, this hybrid SUV is the only SUV on the market that rates over thirty miles to the gallon in both city driving and highway driving. The efficiency is bred from not only the hybrid motor, but the efficient transmission setup that keeps the motor from burning too much fuel. If, however, the price is to excessive, the non-hybrid version is available for $10,000 dollars less, but functioning at 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway.
2. 2010 Chevy Equinox, City/Highway MPG, 22/32
Starting $8,000 dollars less than the Ford Escape Hybrid, this all gas powered vehicle uses innovative technology to make a fuel-efficient car without the high costs of a hybrid. For a non-hybrid choice, this vehicle is the way to go; an all-around winner, it has size, aesthetics, and durability, it is cheaper than a hybrid, but refuses to lose too much fuel efficiency.
3. Jeep Patriot, City/Highway MPG, 23/29
Though slightly less fuel efficient than the Equinox, this car provides a far cheaper alternative to any of the SUVs of its class. Starting at $18,00 dollars, the car cuts back on superfluous amenities on the interior, and focuses on a cheap and efficient SUV.
4. Toyota RAV4, City/Highway MPG, 21/27
An excellent choice for those with large families or who are in a carpool, the advantage to this SUV is the seven seat interior. Though it adds a little in price and loses a bit of fuel efficiency compared to other similar vehicles, it still stands head and shoulders above many other SUVs in fuel-efficiency, and any extra cost is made up for in the
utilitarian interior and classy exterior.
5. Subaru Forester, City/Highway MPG, 20/27
An all around excellent SUV, where this vehicle loses the straight out fuel-efficiency battle, it makes up for it in the smooth drive and large cargo hold. With 68.3 cubic feet with the seats up, the Forester contains the most usable cargo room out of any of the vehicles in its class.
