In a world where gas prices keep climbing, the search for the most fuel-efficient SUVs has become a top priority for many drivers. With this in mind, we've put together a comprehensive list of the best options for 2023. These vehicles not only offer incredible fuel efficiency, but also deliver on style, performance, and practicality.
Each of the SUVs on our list showcases cutting-edge technology and design, aimed at reducing fuel consumption while maintaining a great driving experience. From hybrid powertrains to advanced aerodynamics, these vehicles are proof that going green doesn't mean sacrificing the features that SUV enthusiasts love.
Read on as we dive into the details of each SUV, providing you with a thorough overview of its fuel-saving features and performance capabilities. Get ready to find your perfect, fuel-sipping ride for 2023!
Savvy Advice for Picking a Fuel-Saving Ride
Before we proceed to know the most fuel-efficient SUV's, here's a guide through the maze of models out there to find the most fuel-sipping vehicle that fits your lifestyle.
Go for the Little Guy
Size matters, buddy! Smaller vehicles usually drink less fuel and emit less CO2. So pick the tiniest ride that works for your daily life, and you'll save some serious dough at the dealership and the pump.
Gears Galore – the More, the Merrier
More gears mean a more efficient engine. To max out on gear ratios, give a continuously variable transmission (CVT) a try. These bad boys use belts and pulleys to offer a limitless range of gears.
Keep It Simple With Your Drivetrain
Front-wheel drive is your fuel-saving friend. All-wheel and four-wheel drive? Not so much. If you absolutely need it, pick a drivetrain that only kicks in all four wheels when necessary.
Opt for Fewer Ponies Under the Hood
Bigger engines with more horsepower tend to guzzle more gas. Lots of vehicles offer different engine sizes, so save yourself some money and go smaller.
Ditch the Fancy Frills
Extra bells and whistles can boost a vehicle's fuel consumption by adding weight, cranking up aerodynamic drag, or drawing more power from the engine. Think long and hard about whether these creature comforts are really worth the extra cash at the pump.
1. Electric windows, seating, mirrors, and door locks:
The power consumed by electric seats, windows, mirrors, and door locks might not be substantial, but the extra weight they bring certainly is. With power seats alone potentially adding 40 to 60 kilograms to a 1,200-kilogram car, fuel consumption can spike by 2 to 3%.
2. Remote vehicle starters
Remote starters tempt folks to fire up their cars before they're actually ready to hit the road, which leads to unnecessary fuel wastage.
3. Air con systems
Under city-driving conditions, air conditioning can cause a whopping 20%+ increase in fuel consumption. Opt for a system with an "economy" setting to help mitigate the effects of using air conditioning.
4. Fixed roof racks
Even when they're not carrying anything, fixed roof racks still create aerodynamic drag, which in turn demands more fuel for your vehicle to move forward.
5. Engines with turbochargers
Switching to a smaller engine equipped with a turbocharger can be a fuel-saving move. But, if you turbocharge a standard-sized engine just for extra power, you might find yourself spending more on fuel instead of saving cash.
Inquire About Fuel-Saving Features
Plenty of budget-friendly options exist to help you cut down on fuel usage:
Aluminium wheels: Aluminium wheels weigh less than standard ones. Consequently, a vehicle requires less energy to move them.
Block heater: A block heater warms up a vehicle's engine block, allowing you to start a semi-warm engine and boost your car's overall fuel efficiency during winter.
Cruise control: Cruise control maintains a steady speed on highways, preventing accidental decelerations and accelerations that contribute to higher fuel consumption.
Navigation system: Navigation systems guide you on the most direct path to your destination, saving you from burning fuel on unnecessary detours.
Removable roof rack: Removable roof racks prove more fuel-efficient than fixed ones since you can take them off and reduce drag when they're not in use.
Sunroof: Open windows or sunroofs offer better fuel efficiency than air conditioning at city speeds. However, on highways, they create drag and increase fuel usage. Opt for a sunroof with a tilt function for improved ventilation without added drag.
Tachometer: Tachometers display engine speed, helping you determine the optimal time to shift gears in a manual transmission for top-notch fuel efficiency.
Tinted windows: Tinted glass prevents some of the sun's heat from entering your vehicle, keeping you cooler without the need for air conditioning. You can fit tinted glass on any vehicle, be it new or pre-owned.
Trip computer: Trip computers track your fuel consumption, encouraging you to use less and save more.
The 12 Most Fuel-Efficient 2023 SUVs
12. Infiniti QX80 (15 MPG)
Infiniti's QX80 is the ultimate luxurious off-roading beast. This large, three-row SUV is equipped with a 5.6L V8 engine that pumps out an impressive 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The seven-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep fuel economy in check, but it's dealing with a significant amount of power and heft.
Even with lavish amenities like quilted leather seating, the QX80 maintains genuine off-road prowess. It also boasts a Hydraulic Body Motion Control suspension system that can distribute pressure to either the inner or outer suspension, minimizing body roll.
The QX80 from Infiniti can tow an impressive 8,500 pounds. According to its EPA estimate, you can expect to get 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs in its class, especially considering its gas-guzzling V8 engine.
2023 Infiniti QX80 Specs:
- Engine: 5.6L 32-valve V8
- Horsepower: 400 hp at 5,800 rpm
- Torque: 413 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed automatic with adaptive shift control and manual shift mode featuring downshift rev-matching
- Drive type: Infiniti All-Mode 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 8,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 13 / 19 / 15 mpg
- Range: 390 miles
11. Mercedes-Benz G 550 (16 MPG)
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is not only renowned for its stunning looks and off-road prowess but also for its impressive fuel efficiency. Standing out from the rest of the German luxury automaker's lineup, the G-Wagen (its popular nickname) is designed to conquer terrains that would make others shudder, all while delivering excellent gas mileage.
Under the hood of the G 550, you'll find a powerful 4.0L turbocharged V8 engine pumping out a solid 416 horsepower. This engine strikes a remarkable balance between performance and fuel efficiency, providing drivers with a thrilling experience on and off the road. In terms of gas mileage, the G 550 offers a combined city and highway fuel economy of 16 mpg, making it one of the best gas SUVs in terms of MPG.
And for those seeking even more power and performance, the Mercedes-AMG G 63 takes things to another level. With its bi-turbo engine, the G 63 delivers a whopping 577 horsepower, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience. While its focus is on performance, it still manages to offer respectable fuel efficiency, considering its power and capabilities.
2023 Mercedes-Benz G 550 Deets
- Engine: 4.0L V8 bi-turbo
- Horsepower: 416 hp revving at 5,250-5,500 rpm
- Torque: 450 lb.-ft. between 2,000-4,750 rpm
- Transmission: 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic
- Drive type: Full-time AWD with a 2-speed transfer case
- Max tow capacity: 7,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 14 / 17 / 16 mpg
- Range: 416 miles on the open road
10. Lexus GX 460 (16 MPG)
Say hello to the Lexus GX 460, a tough-as-nails, body-on-frame SUV that's been conquering off-road terrain since its debut back in 2010. This baby's equipped with all the off-road goodies, like full-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, and a Torsen locking centre differential. And the cherry on top? It snags a spot on our list of most fuel-efficient SUVs, proving you don't have to skimp on style and capability for great fuel economy.
So, what's under the hood? The GX 460 packs a 4.6L V8 engine that pumps out 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a smooth six-speed automatic transmission, this beast manages an EPA-estimated 16 mpg for combined city and highway driving. Not too shabby!
2023 Lexus GX 460 Specs:
- Engine: 4.6L DOHC 32-valve VVT-i V8
- Horsepower: 301 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 329 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed automatic ECT
- Drive type: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 6,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 15 / 19 / 16 mpg
- Range: 368 miles
9. Toyota 4Runner (17 MPG)
The Toyota 4Runner is not only known for its off-roading capabilities but also for its impressive fuel efficiency.
With its V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, this SUV delivers a bit better fuel economy compared to its counterparts. It achieves an EPA-estimated 16 mpg in the city and an impressive 19 mpg on those wide-open highways, making it one of the best MPG SUV cars in its class.
2023 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Specs
- Engine: 4.0L DOHC V6 VVT-i
- Horsepower: 270 hp at 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 278 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm
- Transmission: Five-speed automatic
- Drive type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 19 / 17 mpg
- Range: 391 miles
8. Ford Expedition / Lincoln Navigator (18 MPG)
On the surface, the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator seem like two completely distinct beasts, but under the hood, they're practically twins. They both share a fully boxed frame, which is also the foundation for the world's bestselling pickup, the F-150.
Although they're built on a body-on-frame structure, using aluminium for the bodywork helps shave some weight off these two massive SUVs, contributing to better fuel efficiency. Swapping out the traditional V8, they both rock a 3.5L V6 engine with a pair of turbochargers.
The Expedition's XL, XLT, and STX trims pump out 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. As for the top-tier trims, the Timberline and Stealth, they match the Navigator's horsepower, boasting a solid 440. No matter the trim level, all models come with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
When it comes to fuel economy, the lower trims of the four-wheel drive Expedition clock in at 18 mpg for combined driving, according to government estimates. Surprisingly, the bulkier and more powerful 4x4 Lincoln Navigator also delivers an 18 mpg return, as per EPA ratings. These impressive fuel efficiency numbers make them a top choice for those seeking a gas SUV with the best MPG.
2023 Ford Expedition (XL, XLT, STX) 4WD Specs:
- Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 w/auto start-stop
- Horsepower: 380 hp at 5,000 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb.-ft. at 2,250 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 9,200 lbs. (w/Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package)
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 22 / 18 mpg
- Range: 418 miles
7. Jeep Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer Hurricane (19 MPG)
Stellantis' legendary V8 engine is about to go the way of the dodo bird as Dodge, RAM, and Jeep shift gears toward electrification.
Taking on the role of the ultimate heavy-duty workhorse is the all-new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six, affectionately known as the Hurricane. The Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer will be blessed with two variations of this beast.
The first incarnation of this twin-turbo marvel will unleash 420 horsepower and a whopping 468 pound-feet of torque, all while delivering a considerable uptick in fuel efficiency compared to the 6.4L V8.
Its sibling, the Hurricane 510, will whip up an impressive 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. With all that raw power, expect towing capacities to peak between 9,800 and 10,000 pounds.
The Grand Wagoneer is no joke when it comes to luxury, showcasing a silky smooth powertrain that exudes both capability and elegance. Low-range gearing, the Selec-Terrain traction management system, and an optional electronically controlled air suspension with adjustable ride height are all part of this beauty's charm.
As for fuel economy, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer Hurricane proudly achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg when combining highway and city driving.
2023 Grand Wagoneer Hurricane Specs
- Engine: 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo
- Horsepower: 420 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 468 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
- Drive type: AWD
- Max tow capacity: 9,800 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 23 / 19 mpg
- Range: 494 miles
6. Lexus LX 600 (19 MPG)
The Lexus LX 600, the luxurious sibling of the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser, shares its platform with the all-new Toyota Tundra.
It's also powered by a version of the truck's new engine, boasting a 409-horsepower twin-turbo 3.4L V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LX 600 saw a complete overhaul in 2022, so only minor updates were made for 2023.
Under the hood of the LX 600, you'll discover full-time four-wheel drive, an active height-adjustable suspension, and even crawl control. While it may not look like your typical off-roader with that fancy spindle grille, trust me, this beast is ready to tackle any terrain!
The official fuel economy estimate for this beauty is 19 mpg overall.
2023 Lexus LX 600 Specs
- Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6
- Horsepower: 409 hp @ 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 479 lb.-ft. @ 2,000-3,600 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive type: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 8,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 17 / 22 / 19 mpg
- Range: 401 miles
5. Ford Bronco 2-Door EcoBoost (20 MPG)
The Ford Bronco has finally stepped up as a genuine challenger to the Jeep Wrangler after all these years. Built on the Ford Ranger platform, this good-looking off-roader lets you strip it down, taking off the doors, roof, and even the fenders. Plus, you'll find both automatic and manual transmission options, delivering the same fuel efficiency!
It's the leaner, meaner two-door Bronco that takes the cake for the best fuel economy. And guess what? It's the only one that comes with that sweet seven-speed stick shift featuring crawler gear.
With a 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-banger under the hood, the Bronco pumps out 275 horses and 315 pound-feet of torque on your everyday gas. But if you're willing to shell out for some premium juice, it'll crank up to 300 horsepower.
This feisty little powerhouse rewards you with 20 mpg in combined city and highway driving. Not too shabby, huh?
2023 Ford Bronco 2-Door Specs
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 w/auto start-stop
- Horsepower: 300 hp at 5,700 rpm (premium fuel)
- Torque: 325 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm (premium fuel)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 3,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 20 / 21 / 20 mpg
- Range: 338 miles
4. Toyota Sequoia 4WD (20 MPG)
Overall, the 2023 Sequoia is an absolute beast on the road. Under the hood, you'll find an i-Force MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid engine that cranks out a massive 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. That hybrid magic comes from a 48-horsepower electric motor tucked right between the V6 and a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission.
The heart-pounding engine isn't the only cutting-edge tech the Sequoia shares with the Tundra. Built on a modern body-on-frame design, this baby boasts a fully boxed frame, just like its Tundra sibling. And let me tell you, the revamped Sequoia has got some serious swagger, taking up every inch of those parking spots it calls home.
Sure, we're all gonna miss the good ol' V8, but this new Sequoia hybrid offers more power, more torque, fantastic fuel efficiency, and a top-notch driving experience. For more juicy details and insights, check out our review of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia.
2023 Toyota Sequoia SR5 4WD Specs
- Engine: i-FORCE MAX: 3.5L aluminum block V6 Hybrid, twin-turbocharged
- Horsepower: 437 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 583 lb.-ft. at 2,400 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Drive type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 9,120 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 19 / 22 / 20 mpg
- Range: 450 miles
3. Cadillac Escalade/GMC Yukon XL/ Chevrolet Tahoe/Chevrolet Suburban 3.0 Duramax Diesel (22 MPG)
Yup, you read that right! A whole bunch of GM SUVs are grouped together under a single entry.
These GM heavyweights can tow a whopping 8,000 pounds when equipped with a 3.0L Duramax diesel engine and four-wheel drive. The Duramax turbo inline-six churns out 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while a 10-speed automatic transmission ensures you get the most out of that power.
From luxurious models and family-oriented rides to workhorses and off-road beasts, GM has an SUV tailored to your needs. No matter which one catches your eye, the diesel engine is reported to deliver 22 mpg in official estimates.
- Engine: 3.0L DOHC I-6 Duramax turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 277 hp at 3,750 rpm (diesel fuel)
- Torque: 460 lb.-ft. at 1,500 rpm (diesel fuel)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 8,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 20 / 26 / 22 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Range: 528 miles
2. Jeep Wrangler 4xe (49 MPGe)
Behold the ultimate off-road beast with a plug! The Jeep Wrangler has reigned supreme as the king of factory off-road SUVs for ages, only challenged by Ford's Bronco in recent times.
But now, the Wrangler has upped its game, offering more than just unbeatable off-road prowess, detachable doors, and an optional top. Enter the Wrangler 4xe, which lets you conquer the wilderness in whisper-quiet electric mode.
As a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the 4xe marries an electric motor with a 2.0L turbo-four. Together, they deliver a potent 375 horsepower and a staggering 470 pound-feet of torque. Plus, you can cruise on electric power alone for up to 21 miles.
This powertrain combo gifts the Wrangler 4xe an impressive miles-per-gallon equivalent of 49. Once the battery's tapped out, it still manages a solid 20 mpg combined.
Jeep also dishes out a 2.0L four-cylinder Wrangler, which would've snatched a spot on our most fuel-efficient SUVs list—had the hybrid not swooped in—with a respectable 23 mpg combined EPA rating.
2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Specs
- Engine: 2.0L turbo I-4
- Horsepower: 270 hp at 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 295 lb.-ft. at 3,000 rpm
- eTorque belt-start generator/motor: 44 hp / 39 lb-ft
- Transmission: Plug-in hybrid 8-speed automatic
- Integrated transmission traction motor: 134 hp / 181 lb.-ft.
- Total powertrain output:
- Horsepower: 375 hp at 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb.-ft. at 3,000 rpm
- Drive type: 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 3,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (MPGe/combined): 49 / 20 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Range: 370 miles
1. Rivian R1S (69 MPGe)
Rivian R1S SUVs began rollin' out in 2022, making this beast the only body-on-frame SUV EV on the market today. It's not entirely conventional, with the frame accommodating the electric battery and powertrain, but with 14.9 inches of ground clearance and a 7,700-pound towing capacity, we think it definitely deserves a spot.
The R1S comes in two flavours: a four-motor AWD beast boasting 835 horsepower and 908 pound-feet of torque, and a dual-motor AWD option with a still-impressive 600 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque. Whichever you choose, you're in for a wild ride.
Rockin' a 135kWh battery pack, this bad boy can travel up to 316 miles before needing a recharge. That tech magic translates to an impressive 69 MPGe.
2023 Rivian R1S Specs
- Motor: 2 AC permanent magnet per wheel, baby!
- Horsepower: 600 hp of pure electric power
- Torque: 600 lb.-ft. to get you movin'
- Transmission: 1-Speed Automatic for seamless shifting
- Battery pack: 135 kWh lithium-ion for long-lasting energy
- Drive type: Quad-motor AWD for grip and control
- Max tow capacity: 7,700 lbs. to haul all your toys
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 73 / 65 / 69 MPGe for maximum efficiency
- EV range: 316 miles to keep you cruisin' on
What is Meant By Fuel Efficiency, and Why is It Important?
When we talk about fuel efficiency, we're discussing how effectively a vehicle uses its fuel. It's easy to mix it up with fuel economy, which is a more precise term for the distance a vehicle can cover using a specific amount of fuel.
Those cars with lower fuel economy ratings usually cost you more in the long run and contribute more to pollution since they need more fuel to go the same distance.
Fuel Efficiency Vs. Fuel Economy
Now, there are a bunch of ways to measure and chat about a vehicle's fuel usage. Fuel efficiency is all about how well a vehicle performs in terms of fuel consumption. Fuel economy, on the flip side, is a concrete figure.
In the US, they express fuel economy in miles per gallon. But other countries have their own ways, like kilometres per litre. The UK also use miles per gallon, but their imperial gallon is a bit bigger than ours.
For a true understanding of a car's fuel efficiency, experts suggest you should compare fuel consumption. That's the real deal, my friend!
Is It Worth Investing in a More Fuel-Efficient Vehicle?
Opting for a fuel-efficient car means lower emissions and reduced running costs. If minimizing your carbon footprint matters to you, it's a no-brainer to go for a greener ride. When weighing your options, estimate the fuel expenses for each vehicle's lifespan to determine the better deal.
As a final thought, if saving on operational costs is your main goal, consider purchasing a diesel car with a diesel engine, particularly if you tend to rack up miles on highways.
Advantages of Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
Fuel-efficient cars produce less pollution for the same distance covered and are more economical to run. Choosing a fuel-savvy vehicle can help you save thousands in fuel expenses over the years, often compensating for a higher initial cost if you keep the car for an extended period.
Thankfully, tire, aerodynamic, body, engine and transmission innovations have significantly boosted fuel efficiency. As per Energy.gov, the average fuel economy now surpasses 25 mpg, with numerous vehicles averaging over 33 mpg.
How Can I Maximize Your Car's Fuel Efficiency?
The "mpg" figure provided by car manufacturers is based on EPA testing and serves as a simple way to compare vehicles' fuel efficiency. However, it's not a guarantee, as real-world factors impact the actual mileage. Adopting these driving and maintenance practices can help you get the most out of your car's efficiency:
- Monitor your tire pressure: Incorrectly inflated tires can negatively affect your car's performance.
- Drive smoothly: Abrupt stops or starts to force the engine to work harder, wasting fuel. Accelerate gently, even when in a rush.
- Steer clear of excessive speeds: Each car has an optimal speed based on its tires, aerodynamics, and engine. Efficiency might drop once you exceed 50 mph.
- Avoid idling (except in traffic): If you find yourself parked or stationary for over a minute, it's more fuel-efficient to switch off the engine rather than idle.
Wrapping Up Our Fuel Efficiency Quest
In our quest to find the most fuel-efficient SUVs of 2023, we've explored four incredible vehicles that stand out from the rest. These eco-friendly warriors not only save you money at the pump, but they also deliver impressive performance and style.
As we move towards a more sustainable future, choosing a vehicle with high fuel efficiency becomes increasingly important. Remember, the most fuel-efficient SUV for you will be the one that aligns with your driving habits, budget, and taste.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we hope this information helps you make the right choice when it comes to purchasing your next SUV. Drive smart, and keep an eye on future advancements in fuel efficiency – because who knows what amazing innovations await us just around the corner?