MPG Heroes Vs. Villains
SUVs dominate our roads but differ dramatically at the pump. The efficiency leaders employ clever engineering tricks while the gas-guzzlers unapologetically prioritize power and presence. Ultimately, this distinction can result in thousands of dollars being sent down the drain year after year. So, let's look at 2025's most and least fuel-efficient SUVs.
1. Kia Niro
Imagine cruising 500+ miles on a single tank. That's the reality for Kia Niro owners enjoying an incredible 53 mpg combined rating. Despite competitors' best efforts, the Niro remains the efficiency king across the board, validated by TrueCar and Car and Driver.
2025 Kia Niro - Interior and Exterior by KJE Studio
2. Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid
Why pay premium prices for hybrid technology? Toyota doesn't think you should. Their engineers packed amazing efficiency into an affordable package that doesn't scream "budget." The Corolla Cross Hybrid delivers excellent fuel economy without requiring premium-grade gas, which is a hidden expense with some competitors.
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid Review and Off-Road Test by Driving Sports TV
3. Kia Sportage Hybrid
With striking angular headlights and that distinctive "tiger nose" grille, the Sportage Hybrid turns heads for many reasons. Up to 36 mpg combined means serious savings throughout ownership. Surprisingly roomy with 73.7 cubic feet of cargo space proves efficiency doesn't demand compromise in practicality.
5 ❌ And 8 ✅ Things About The 2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid by Downshift
4. Honda CR-V Hybrid
Refinement defines every aspect of this sophisticated vehicle. Honda's CR-V delivers exceptional fuel economy and premium-feeling accommodations that exceed its price class. A masterclass in engineering balance, it pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors to generate 204 horsepower.
5. Lexus UX Hybrid
Luxury and efficiency can coexist with the UX Hybrid, achieving 45 city/41 highway mpg. The meticulously tuned suspension absorbs road imperfections that would disturb lesser vehicles. The UX's compact dimensions make city parking effortless, yet ingenious interior packaging preserves ease for all occupants.
6. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Engineers didn't just improve efficiency here; they enhanced power, acceleration, and drivability, too. The RAV4 Hybrid's 219 combined horsepower gives a surprising punch while still returning good fuel economy figures that save owners significant money annually. Advanced all-wheel drive also comes standard.
7. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Hyundai's design team created something extraordinary with the latest Tucson. Its parametric grille with hidden-until-lit headlights makes a cool statement when parked or driving. Beneath this bold exterior lies notable hybrid technology with confident acceleration and excellent efficiency. Additionally, its well-tuned steering provides genuine feedback.
8. Ford Escape Hybrid
Nearly 37 miles per gallon in a versatile, right-sized package makes the Escape Hybrid a compelling option for practical-minded shoppers. Ford focused on crafting a quiet cabin where highway driving feels remarkably serene. Multiple powertrain options let buyers prioritize maximum efficiency or balance performance with economy.
2025 Ford Escape Platinum Hybrid: TEST DRIVE+FULL REVIEW by W.T.F Car Reviews
9. Nissan Rogue
Nissan's Rogue achieves a 37 mpg highway rating. This occurs through a variable-compression turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that adapts its operation based on driving conditions. The compact powerplant produces a respectable 201 horsepower and maintains class-leading fuel economy simultaneously.
2025 Nissan Rogue – Which to Buy? by Autotrader
10. Kia Sorento Hybrid
Family-friendly without the fuel penalty, that's the Sorento Hybrid's promise. Recently updated for 2025, it claims the efficiency crown among three-row SUVs with 34 mpg in both city and highway driving. While allowing access to the usable third row, second-row captain's chairs have a more upscale atmosphere.
2025 Kia Sorento Turbo Hybrid First Impressions | AutoDeal Walkaround by AutoDeal.com.ph
Now that we’ve seen fuel-sippers that maximize every drop, let’s look at the following counterparts that prioritize everything but fuel conservation.
1. Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat
Thirsty doesn't begin to describe this beast. Guzzling fuel at a rate that delivers just 13 mpg combined, the Durango Hellcat proudly wears its inefficiency as a badge of honor. Each fill-up can cost owners over $100, with EPA estimates showing a higher annual fuel cost.
The 2025 Dodge Durango Hellcat Hammerhead is the MUST have performance SUV! by Raiti's Rides
2. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Military roots reveal themselves in Mercedes' iconic G-Class's boxy styling and thirsty nature. Its fuel consumption sits at the bottom of luxury SUV rankings. Automotive expert Chris Pyle specifically called it a vehicle that might leave your wallet and gas tank running on empty.
3. Infiniti QX80
Luxury surrounds you while fuel disappears at an alarming rate. The QX80's dated 5.6-liter V8 technology delivers 16 mpg, a system that feels increasingly out of step with modern efficiency expectations. Weighing nearly three tons, this behemoth requires enormous energy to accelerate its mass.
4. BMW X5
BMW's X5 delivers engaging performance expected from the brand while consuming fuel at a 23 mpg rate. The twin-turbocharged engines demand premium fuel, adding further cost to ownership. Similarly, advanced chassis technology crafts handling prowess unexpected in a vehicle this size.
2025 BMW X5 xDrive 50e Review: Is this the ultimate premium hybrid SUV? by AutoIndustriya.com
5. Nissan Armada
Massive interior space comes with equally massive fuel bills. Nissan's flagship SUV returns just 16 mpg. The naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 feels increasingly anachronistic in today's efficiency-focused market. Despite its fuel consumption, the Armada gives exceptional value compared to luxury-branded competitors.
6. Jeep Wagoneer
Efficiency takes a back seat in this gas-guzzling behemoth. The Wagoneer's 6.4-liter V8 delivers a dismal fuel economy that experts explicitly warn about. Auto specialist Chris Pyle even called it out for being "wicked powerful" but fundamentally inefficient by design.
The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Is A Upscale Midsize EV With Squirrelly Mopar DNA by Redline Reviews
7. Toyota Sequoia
With 22 mpg combined, the Sequoia visits the gas station too often despite its legendary reliability. Each 24-gallon tank empties quickly during normal driving, mainly during city commutes, where efficiency hits 14 mpg. It remains near the bottom of efficiency rankings year after year.
2025 Toyota Sequoia -- NEW Trim Level, Luxury Features & MORE for 2025! by Car Confections
8. Ford Expedition
Recent refreshes improved technology but not efficiency. The Expedition's 19 mpg combined rating feels inadequate considering Ford's EcoBoost engine technology found throughout their lineup. Reviewers note its "truckish handling" despite the independent rear suspension designed to improve ride quality and interior packaging.
9. Chevrolet Traverse
Numbers tell a sobering story about this popular family hauler. Chevrolet introduced a new 2.5-liter turbocharged engine that's technically more efficient than the outgoing V6, but the Traverse still delivers only 19 mpg city/24 mpg highway. Fill-ups also come frequently when using all three rows regularly.
10. Chevrolet Blazer
Every acceleration burns through fuel at a startling rate. The Blazer's efficiency shortcomings stem from its focus on sporty driving dynamics and powerful engine options, prioritizing throttle response over economy. Its fuel consumption rises dramatically during enthusiastic driving, with real-world economy often falling below unimpressive EPA estimates.
2025 Chevrolet Blazer RS - Is It WORTH Every Penny? by Vehicle Visionary
