In the last few years, cars have been improving at using less gas, especially SUVs, which are known for using a lot of fuel. This change happened because of new technology, people caring more about the environment, and customers wanting cars that don’t use too much gas but still work well and are helpful. In this article, we’ll talk about the SUVs that use the most minor gas in 2024 and briefly preview what we might see in 2025.
Evolution of SUVs and Gas Mileage
SUVs have changed a lot since they first came out. They used to be tough vehicles for rough roads, but now they’re great for families and can do many different things. However, people have always thought they use too much gas. In the 1980s and early 2000s, SUVs were known for using a lot of gas, sometimes only going 10 miles on a gallon.
Technological Advancements in Fuel Efficiency
Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid Technology
Hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs help save gas a lot. They use both regular engines and electric motors, which makes them use less fuel while still being robust and working well. The 2024 Ford Escape uses less gas, about 30 miles per gallon, because it has a unique hybrid engine. Another SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Prime, is even better at saving fuel with a number called 94 MPGe.
Impact on Fuel Economy
These new improvements have broken old records. Now, many SUVs get more than 30 miles per gallon, which was thought impossible before. The 2024 Kia Niro FE Hybrid is the best, getting 53 miles per gallon on average. This shows how much better SUVs are at saving gas now.
Ranking the Top Non-Electrified SUVs for Gas Mileage in 2024
10. Ford Escape
The 2024 Ford Escape FWD offers a commendable fuel economy of 30 MPG, making it a popular choice among eco-conscious consumers.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I3, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 27/34/30 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 444 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,800 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 14.8 |
9. Hyundai Venue
Hyundai’s 2024 Venue FWD boasts a fuel economy of 31 MPG, coupled with stylish design and affordability.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.6-liter I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 29/33/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 369 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 11.9 |
8. Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer FWD achieves a competitive 31 MPG, showcasing that even larger SUVs can be efficient.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.3-liter Turbo I3, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 29/33/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 409 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 13.2 |
7. Volkswagen Taos
Volkswagen’s Taos FWD is stylish and fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 31 MPG.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 28/36/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 409 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 13.2 |
6. Kia Seltos
The 2024 Kia Seltos FWD matches its competitors’ fuel economy of 31 MPG, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 28/34/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 409 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 13.2 |
5. Kia Soul Eco Dynamics
Kia’s Soul Eco Dynamics FWD shares the same MPG rating of 31, proving that even quirky SUVs can excel in fuel efficiency.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 29/35/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 443 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 14.3 |
4. Hyundai Kona
With a fuel economy of 31 MPG, the 2024 Hyundai Kona FWD combines practicality with eco-friendliness.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 29/34/31 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 384 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,750 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 12.4 |
3. Toyota Corolla Cross
Toyota’s Corolla Cross FWD sets a new standard with a fuel economy of 32 MPG, which is ideal for urban adventures.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 31/33/32 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 397 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,700 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 12.4 |
2. Nissan Rogue
The 2024 Nissan Rogue FWD impresses with a fuel economy of 33 MPG, showcasing Nissan’s commitment to efficiency.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 30/37/33 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 478 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,650 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 14.5 |
1. Nissan Kicks
Topping the list is the 2024 Nissan Kicks FWD, which boasts an impressive 33 MPG, making it a budget-friendly yet fuel-efficient choice.
Specifications:
| Powertrain Option | ICE 1.5-liter Turbo I4, FWD, Automatic |
| Fuel Economy (MPG) | City/Highway/Combined: 31/36/33 |
| EPA-Estimated Range | 356 miles |
| Annual Fuel Costs | $1,650 |
| Tank Capacity (gallons) | 10.8 |
Hybrid SUVs with the Best Gas Mileage for 2024
Hybrid SUVs offer even more significant fuel savings, with the 2024 Kia Niro FE Hybrid leading the pack at 53 MPG combined.
Plug-In Hybrid SUVs with the Best Gas Mileage for 2024
The 2024 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid takes the crown with an impressive 101 MPGe and 39 MPG combined.
Conclusion
The landscape of SUVs is rapidly changing, with a clear emphasis on fuel efficiency and eco-conscious design. Whether you prefer non-electrified, hybrid, or plug-in hybrid options, a wide range of SUVs are available that combine performance, utility, and impressive gas mileage.
