Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs in 2025: The Ultimate Guide

With rising gas prices and increased environmental concerns, many people are hesitant to buy SUVs. Yet, fuel-efficient SUVs offer the versatility, comfort, and space of any other SUV with much lower fuel economy concerns. Many consumers seek vehicles with a perfect balance between utility and efficiency, which is a reasonable request in 2025.

Keep reading for an analysis of the most fuel-efficient SUVs available today. These SUVs were selected based on miles per gallon (city, highway, and combined), electric range if applicable, and key features like advanced safety technology.

Understanding Fuel Efficiency in SUVs

Miles per gallon (MPG) is the most common measurement of fuel efficiency. It represents how many miles a vehicle can travel on a single gallon of fuel. The higher the MPG, the better the fuel efficiency is.

Cars have MPG city and highway ratings, which compare the fuel consumption in different driving conditions. Some vehicles might be more efficient on the highway than in the city or vice versa. Combined ratings show the weighted average of the two scores.

While the Environmental Protection Agency's MPG estimates are fairly close to real-world performance, there are a lot of factors that can impact fuel efficiency. Weight, aerodynamics, vehicle maintenance, and driving habits can all influence SUV fuel economy.

Traditional MPG metrics are changing as new propulsion technologies, such as hybrid and electric vehicles, are introduced. These vehicles can use electricity instead of gasoline (or a combination of gas and electricity for hybrids). Since they use a different fuel type, the MPG is determined by how many miles an electric vehicle can travel on the energy equivalent of one gallon of gasoline (known as MPGe).

Most Fuel-Efficient Compact SUVs

Both traditional and hybrid SUVs can have great fuel economy. While SUVs are known for being spacious, some customers prefer compact SUVs because they're more fuel efficient and easier to navigate in the city.

2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

• MPG: 42 (45 city/38 highway)

• Starting Price: $28,495

• Key Features: Front and rear parking assist, blind spot monitor, LED headlights

• Learn more about the 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid

2025 Ford Escape

• MPG: 39 (27 city/34 highway)

• Starting Price: $29,895

• Key Features: Plug-in hybrid version available, 13.2-inch LCD touchscreen, Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist

• Learn more about the 2025 Ford Escape

2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer

• MPG: 31 (29 city/35 highway)

• Starting Price: $24,495

• Key Features: Suspension for off-road use, hands-free liftgate, Chevy Safety Assist

• Learn more about the 2025 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Most Fuel-Efficient Midsize SUVs

Sometimes, you need a little more space than a compact SUV offers. Midsize SUVs are both practical and comfortable. While the larger size is slightly less efficient, it offers more storage space for big families and anyone who loves road trips.

2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

• MPG: 36 (36 city/35 highway)

• Starting Price: $37,000

• Key Features: Highway driving assist, remote smart parking assist, blind spot view monitor

• Learn more about the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid

2025 Nissan Rogue

• MPG: 33 (30 city/37 highway)

• Starting Price: $30,620

• Key Features: Hands- and feet-off driving experience, Nissan Safety Shield, customizable 12.3" digital dashboard

• Learn more about the 2025 Nissan Rogue

2025 Chevrolet Blazer

• MPG: 25 (22 city/29 highway)

• Starting Price: $37,095

• Key Features: Chevy Safety Assist, adaptive cruise control, 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen

• Learn more about the 2025 Chevrolet Blazer

Factors to Consider Beyond MPG

While MPG is a major factor for finding the most fuel efficient SUV, it isn't the only aspect to consider. Keep the following in mind too:

• Total cost of ownership (long-term fuel and maintenance costs)

• Reliability ratings

• Projected resale value

• Practical utility needs, like towing and cargo space

• Regional considerations, like climate, terrain, and available fuel types

Making the Right Choice

The most fuel efficient SUV in every category is the one with the best gas mileage and other efficient features. The 2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid, Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, and Volvo EX30 are just a few of the many great options.

To determine the ideal vehicle for you, consider what features fit your needs best. There's always new technology related to fuel efficiency, so we will likely see even better fuel economy for SUVs in years to come.

Most Fuel-Efficient SUV FAQ

1. Are hybrid SUVs worth the extra cost?

If you prioritize fuel efficiency, hybrid SUVs are worth the premium price because they have lower long-term fuel costs than gas-powered SUVs.

2. How accurate are EPA fuel economy ratings?

EPA fuel economy ratings offer a reasonable estimate, but a vehicle's fuel efficiency can vary based on your driving habits.

3. What size SUV gets the best gas mileage?

Compact and subcompact SUVs get better mileage than midsize and full-size ones because they're smaller and require less energy to accelerate.

4. How do I maximize fuel efficiency in my SUV?

To get the best fuel efficiency out of your SUV, prioritize regular maintenance and avoid aggressive driving and braking.