Road trips are a staple of family vacations, but long drives often come with high fuel costs. Thankfully, today’s market offers plenty of SUVs that provide great gas mileage while maintaining enough space and comfort for the journey ahead.
If you're planning your next adventure but want to keep your fuel costs under control, there are several SUVs that offer the perfect balance of efficiency, space, and performance.
1. Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is an excellent choice for road trips, especially if you’re looking for an SUV with top-tier fuel economy. With an impressive 41 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, it’s one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers in the market. Plus, it comes with Toyota’s reputation for reliability, which is an important factor when hitting the open road.
- Fuel Economy: 41 city / 38 highway mpg
- Key Features: Spacious interior, AWD option, advanced safety features
- Why it’s great for road trips: The RAV4 Hybrid provides plenty of cargo space for luggage and a comfortable ride for long journeys, making it ideal for families and adventurers.
2. Honda CR-V Hybrid
Another solid contender in the hybrid SUV category is the Honda CR-V Hybrid. This model combines Honda’s reputation for reliability with the benefits of hybrid technology, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly road trip. The CR-V Hybrid delivers an impressive 40 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, ensuring you’ll save on fuel without sacrificing comfort.
- Fuel Economy: 40 city / 35 highway mpg
- Key Features: Roomy cabin, user-friendly tech, AWD availability
- Why it’s great for road trips: Its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and top-notch fuel economy make it perfect for long-distance driving.
3. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
For those seeking a more affordable option with hybrid efficiency, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid delivers a great combination of style, technology, and fuel economy. With a fuel efficiency of 38 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, the Tucson Hybrid stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class.
- Fuel Economy: 38 city / 38 highway mpg
- Key Features: Quiet cabin, sleek design, excellent tech features
- Why it’s great for road trips: The Tucson Hybrid is a fantastic option for families looking for both fuel efficiency and style.
4. Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford Escape Hybrid is another great choice for those looking for an SUV with excellent gas mileage. It offers 44 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway, making it one of the most fuel-efficient compact SUVs in its class. The Escape Hybrid also features a comfortable and tech-rich interior.
- Fuel Economy: 44 city / 37 highway mpg
- Key Features: Spacious interior, smart tech features, smooth ride
- Why it’s great for road trips: The Ford Escape Hybrid’s combination of fuel economy and comfort makes it a top pick for families heading out on long drives.
5. Mazda CX-5
If you prefer something sportier without sacrificing gas mileage, the Mazda CX-5 offers an efficient and fun-to-drive option. While it's not a hybrid, its gas engine still provides great fuel efficiency, with an estimated 25 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. It’s the perfect choice for those who want a balance of power and economy.
- Fuel Economy: 25 city / 31 highway mpg
- Key Features: Stylish design, athletic handling, upscale interior
- Why it’s great for road trips: The CX-5’s fuel economy and engaging driving experience make it a great option for long journeys, especially for those who value driving enjoyment.
6. Chevy Equinox
For those who want an affordable and comfortable SUV with good fuel efficiency, the Chevy Equinox offers a solid option. It provides around 26 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Equinox offers a comfortable ride, plenty of features, and enough space for the whole family, making it a popular choice for road trips.
- Fuel Economy: 26 city / 31 highway mpg
- Key Features: Spacious cabin, comfortable seats, decent tech features
- Why it’s great for road trips: With a solid balance of fuel efficiency, comfort, and space, the Chevy Equinox is an excellent option for families planning long trips. However, it’s important to note the Chevy Equinox years to avoid are the 2010-2017 models due to various issues with reliability and engine performance.
7. Kia Niro
If you are looking for a hybrid SUV that’s compact and extremely fuel-efficient, the Kia Niro is an excellent choice. Offering an impressive 53 mpg city and 48 mpg highway, it’s an eco-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on comfort or technology.
- Fuel Economy: 53 city / 48 highway mpg
- Key Features: High-tech infotainment, comfy cabin, and great warranty
- Why it’s great for road trips: Its excellent fuel economy and compact size make it ideal for urban environments and long drives alike.
Final Thoughts
When choosing an SUV for a road trip, fuel efficiency is one of the most important factors to consider. All of the vehicles mentioned above offer great mileage, making them perfect companions for long-distance driving.
Additionally, the best 3-row SUV under $40,000 would be the Hyundai Palisade or the Kia Telluride, both offering space, comfort, and excellent fuel economy for family road trips.
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