Are you in the market for the very best gas-only, most fuel-efficient SUVs for sale now? Sports utility vehicles have long had a stigma of not giving great fuel-economy numbers, but over the last 10 years manufacturers have completed shattered that stereotype.
Indeed, some SUVs are now even more fuel-efficient than the average family sedan – primarily because of hybridization and electrification of these vehicles.
SUVs have long been known for their spacious interiors, ruggedness, and off-road capabilities. However, with the rising fuel prices and environmental concerns, the demand for fuel-efficient SUVs is also on the rise. We’ll take a look at the top five gas-only SUVs that offer the best fuel efficiency in 2023.
2023 Nissan Kicks 1.6 L, 4 cyl (Msrp: $20,440 USD)
Fuel economy – city 31 / highway 36 / combined 33
Total Range – 356 miles
Annual Fuel Cost – $1,650
The 2023 Nissan Kicks stands at the top of our list of most fuel-efficient gas-only SUVs. It boasts a fuel economy of 31 mpg in the city, 36 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg combined. The Kicks is equipped with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. With a total range of 356 miles and an annual fuel cost of $1,650, the Kicks is a great option for those looking for an affordable and fuel-efficient SUV.
2023 Nissan Rogue FWD 1.5 L, 3 cyl (Msrp: $27,760.00 USD)
Fuel economy – city 30 / highway 37 / combined 33
Total Range – 478 miles
Annual Fuel Cost – $1,650
The 2023 Nissan Rogue FWD comes in at a close second on our list. This SUV is powered by a 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine that produces 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. It offers a fuel economy of 30 mpg in the city, 37 mpg on the highway, and 33 mpg combined. With a total range of 478 miles and an annual fuel cost of $1,650, the Rogue is an excellent option for those who need a bit more power and space than the Kicks.
2023 Toyota Corolla Cross 2.0 L, 4 cyl (Msrp: $23,060 USD)
Fuel economy – city 31 / highway 33 / combined 32
Total Range – 397 miles
Annual Fuel Cost – $1,700
The 2023 Toyota Corolla Cross is a brand-new addition to the Toyota lineup. It’s equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. The Corolla Cross offers a fuel economy of 31 mpg in the city, 33 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg combined. With a total range of 397 miles and an annual fuel cost of $1,700, the Corolla Cross is a great choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency and value Toyota’s reliability and build quality.
2023 Hyundai Kona FWD 2.0 L, 4 cyl (Msrp: $22,140 USD)
Fuel economy – city 30 / highway 35 / combined 32
Total Range – 422 miles
Annual Fuel Cost – $1,700
The 2023 Hyundai Kona is a subcompact SUV that is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque. It offers a fuel economy of 30 mpg in the city, 35 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg combined. With a total range of 422 miles and an annual fuel cost of $1,700, the Kona is an affordable and practical option for those who need a small SUV with good fuel efficiency.
2022 Lexus UX 200 2.0 L, 4 cyl (Msrp: $34,225 USD)
Fuel economy – city 29 / highway 37 / combined 32
Total Range – 397 miles
Annual Fuel Cost – $1,700
The 2022 Lexus UX 200 is a luxury subcompact SUV that offers a fuel economy of 29 mpg in the city, 37 mpg on the highway, and 32 mpg combined. It’s powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 169 horsepower and 151 lb-ft of torque. With a total range of 397 miles and an annual fuel cost of $1,700, the UX 200 is a great option for those who value luxury and fuel efficiency.
Conclusion
These five gas-only SUVs offer the best fuel efficiency in 2023. From the affordable and practical Nissan Kicks and Hyundai Kona to the luxurious Lexus UX 200, there’s an option for everyone. With the rising gas cost consumers are more conscious of the yearly fuel costs.
The problem is most hybrid and electric SUVs are still too expensive for the average fuel-conscious driver who wants an efficient vehicle. Yes, you will get the very best fuel economy numbers from fully-electric and hybrid sports utility vehicles, but you’ll pay an upfront premium that’ll take years to repay itserlf.
Main image courtesy: Nissan,Toyota
