SUVs and “good” gas mileage don’t typically go together - but let’s discuss the options!

Other than routine maintenance and a car’s original price tag, gas prices are another expensive aspect of owning a car.. I hear often during my consults that gas mileage is a priority, but truthfully, it can be tough to balance if you also have a need for a large SUV.

So without any further introduction, let’s dive into my favorite family vehicles that get solid gas mileage. Spoiler Alert: they’re almost all hybrid models.

Which SUVs Typically Get “Good” Gas Mileage?

The rule of thumb is, the smaller the car, the better the gas mileage.

However, when you’re managing family logistics, space becomes a crucial factor. While compact 5-seater SUVs are excellent in terms of fuel efficiency, they might fall short on room for larger families. Thankfully, recent strides in automotive tech have really opened up your options.

Today, you can opt for larger SUVs that are surprisingly fuel-efficient. Looking into hybrid or electric models might just be your best bet for blending space with savings at the pump.

Hybrids enhance efficiency with regenerative braking, capturing energy usually lost during braking, which makes them particularly adept in stop-and-go traffic. Electric cars, on the other hand, operate solely on electric power, using no gasoline at all. They run on batteries that can be charged at home or at public charging stations.

If you’re curious to learn more about electric vehicles I love for families, check out my post - Best Electric & Hybrid Cars for Families. This will break down all of the top questions I get on alternative energy cars for families in my car buying consultations, plus some of my tested favorites.

Why Aren’t All Cars Hybrid?

This is our question exactly!! For the buyer, hybrid cars make a TON of sense, but manufacturers have some concerns.

Many manufacturers believe the window for hybrids is too short since electric cars are going to be widely available soon. While I don’t necessarily agree, they see hybrids as a temporary solution and don't think it's worth investing in them for the long term.

Additionally, not all manufacturers have the same level of hybrid technology. Toyota has been making hybrids successfully since the 1990s (hello Prius) and has proven their technology works well. In contrast, Hyundai has some promising advancements, but they are still catching up.

Lastly, there are certain regulations all manufacturers must follow in terms of miles per gallon averages in their fleet. If a car brand is going to have a full-size SUV that’s gas-powered, then it will bring out an all-electric car to offset the lack of miles. Hybrids do not create as much of a difference in terms of averaging out MPG averages, so it makes less sense from their perspective.

“Kelly, I’m Not Interested In A Hybrid. What Else Should I Consider?”

While hybrid and electric cars are excellent for saving on gas, they might not be the best fit for every family. So, if you're considering other models, what should you look at?

Start with the smallest SUV that comfortably meets your needs.

If maximizing MPG is your top priority and hybrids aren’t on your radar, it’s crucial to reassess what’s most important to you when buying a car. Balancing top priorities can be tricky!

If excellent gas mileage is a must, then hybrids should definitely make your shortlist. However, if fuel efficiency is important but not a deal-breaker, you’ll have a wider range of models to consider. While these often offer the best gas mileage among non-hybrid SUVs, keep in mind they might be too small for larger families. If you can fit your family comfortably, though, you’re in for some significant fuel savings.

What Size SUV Do You Need?

Two-Row SUVs: Around 29-33 MPG (depending on model)
Two-row SUVs often fall short in providing the necessary space for many families' daily needs. If you find that's the case, consider exploring larger mid-size SUVs before stepping up to the full-size category. While the MPG may be better, depending on the size of your family, you may outgrow this vehicle quickly.

Mid-Size SUVs: Around 22-24 MPG (depending on the model)
I consider anything with a 3rd row a mid-size SUV. I love that mid-size SUVs strike a balance between being spacious enough for 2-3 kids comfortably, but still have better MPG than a full-size SUV.

Large Mid-Size SUVs: Around 22-24 MPG (depending on the model)
For those who need three rows and more cargo space, large mid-size SUVs are an excellent choice. Think: Volkswagen Atlas and Chevy Traverse to name a few! Before you purchase a full-size SUV, you need to look at our list of Largest Mid-Size SUVs for Families. By going with a large mid-size SUV over a full-size, you’ll be saving on gas mileage and the price of the car.

Full-Size SUVs: Around 17-19 MPG (depending on the model)
When you need allllll the space you can get, full-size SUVs might be the only option. However, be prepared to compromise on fuel efficiency. These larger vehicles are not known for being MPG-friendly, typically averaging 18 - 25 mpg combined, depending on the wheelbase size. It's a familiar trade-off for many, including myself in our family’s Ford Expedition Max!

SUVs With Best Gas Milage (Electric):

Kia EV9 (uses battery life over MPG)
Rivian R1S (uses battery life over MPG)
Tesla Model X (uses battery life over MPG)

SUVs With Best Gas Milage (Hybrid):

Honda CRV Hybrid (40 MPG combined)
Kia Sorento Hybrid (37 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid (39 MPG combined)
Lexus TX Hybrid (29 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV
Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid (27 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV
Volvo XC90 Plug-In Hybrid (27 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV
Mazda CX-90 Hybrid (25 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV
Toyota Sequoia Hybrid (20 MPG combined) - Three Row SUV

Honorable Mention: Best Minivans For Families (Hybrid):

Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid (30 MPG combined)
Toyota Sienna (36 MPG combined)

My Lukewarm Take On Gas Mileage

While smaller SUVs generally provide better fuel efficiency, the difference in gas mileage isn't dramatically large compared to that of larger hybrid mid-size SUVs.

Take the Nissan Rogue Hybrid, for example. This smaller SUV achieves an impressive 33 mpg combined. Now, compare this to the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, a larger mid-size SUV, which delivers 27 mpg combined. Despite the noticeable size difference, the reduction in fuel efficiency isn’t overwhelming.

This is also true for the 2024 VW Atlas, which was named The Car Mom Car of the Year in 2023, and the Ford Expedition Max. The Atlas gets a combined 22 MPG, while the Expedition Max manages 19 MPG. Sure, you'll save a bit on gas with the smaller vehicle, but if the larger car fits your family better, that might be the more practical choice.

The key takeaway here is to prioritize finding a vehicle that fits your whole family comfortably and in your price range.

Do you have a family car you love with great mileage? Let us know in the comments! And to keep up with all the latest car-buying tips for families, check out my recent posts:

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