Buying An SUV With Best Gas Mileage
Gas mileage is not generally the first thing that pops into one's mind when someone mentions an SUV vehicle. However with the introduction of new fuel efficient engines and hybrid technology it is now possible to say these terms togethor. Lets take a look at some of the SUVs with best gas mileage that you can buy now.
SUVs that feature great fuel economy are for the most part the small and compact models or the ones with hybrid powertrains. Larger SUVs rely on more powerful and fuel thirsty engines to move their larger mass and provide sufficient towing abilities.
Compact SUVsThe latest generation of compact SUVs feature some models with exceptional gas mileage. Here are a few of the best gas mileage small SUVs available.
- Honda CR-VThe Honda CR-V is powered by a fuel efficient 4 cylinder engine that is good for 185 hp. It was recently updated with a new continuously variable automatic (CVT) transmission that has allowed for improved gas mileage. This very popular small SUV has an estimated mileage rating of up to 34 mpg for highway driving, 27 mpg for city and 29 mpg for combined highway/city.
- Honda HR-VThe new Honda HR-V features among the top gas mileage for any SUV. It has an estimated gas mileage of up to 35 mpg on the highyway, 28 mpg city and 31 mpg combined. It is equipped with a compact 1.8L fuel efficient engine.
- Mazda CX-5The sporty and fun to drive SUV from Mazda is another of the best SUVs to buy if gas mileage is important to you. It is equipped with either 2.0L or 2.5L 4 cylinder engines and can get up to an estimated 35 mpg highway, 26 mog city and 29 mpg combined gas mileage on the base model equipped with a 6 speed manual transmission.
Hybrid SUVsCombining an electric motor and a traditional gasoline engine, hybrids are able to offer some excellent fuel economy ratings. These SUVs are well suited to urban city environments where their hybrid technology is a distinct advantage over traditional engine technology. In fact most hybrid vehicles are able to achieve higher gas mileage ratings during city driving then on the highway due to their unique powertrain.
- Lexus NX300hWith an estimated city gas mileage rating of up to 35 mpg and highway of up to 31 mpg, this new compact luxury hybrid from Lexus is at the top of the list for the most fuel efficient SUV.
- Lexus RX450hThe Lexus RX450h gets up to an estimated 32 mpg for driving in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. This is very fuel efficient for a mid size luxury SUV and among the best of any SUV on the market today.
- Toyota Highlander HybridFeaturing Toyota's proven and reliable hybrid technology, the Highlander Hybrid is an impressive and fuel efficient mid size family SUV. Gas mileage is estimated at up to 28 mpg for each of city and highway driving ratings.
These are just a few of SUVs with best gas mileage available. More automakers are sure to offer fuel efficient models to satisfy the growing demand of these popular and useful vehicles.