Chunky off-road looks and affordable running costs don’t always go hand-in-hand, but that doesn’t mean there’s no such thing as a good economical SUV.
Indeed, the latest generation of eco-friendly SUVs are more fuel efficient than ever before, with modern technology giving them better MPG than ever before. Here are 10 of the most economical SUVs to own today.
10. Lexus NX 300h
The angular NX 300h does things a bit differently, with what Lexus describes as a self-charging hybrid system. Effectively, it runs on petrol for a while as it charges it electric motor, then the electric motor takes over when it’s most efficient, usually at lower speeds and in urban areas. The result is a full-size luxury SUV with a combined fuel economy figure of 54.3mpg.
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9. Skoda Kodiaq
Thanks to its Volkswagen-sourced 2.0-litre TDI powerplant, the Skoda Kodiaq seven-seater enjoys the same level of efficiency as a VW Group family saloon – up to 56.5mpg on the combined cycle. Throw in impressive levels of standard equipment and prices from only £21,345 and the Kodiaq becomes a fairly enticing proposition.
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8. Jaguar F-PACE
The entry-level F-PACE is a hugely attractive package before you’ve even considered the MPG figure, with the cachet of the Jaguar brand, striking styling and a beautiful interior. It’s a fabulous drive, too, with sporty handling that belies its SUV appearance. All of that in a package that, in 2.0-litre diesel form, offers 59.2mpg as well.
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7. Volvo XC60 D4
There are a lot of reasons to recommend the Volvo XC60, not least its clinical styling, immaculate cockpit and refined ride comfort. The mid-size Volvo SUV is plenty big enough for most families, yet still returns a claimed 60.1mpg in diesel-engined D4 form. Yes, there’s a hybrid model, too, but the D4 is most accessible, especially as the XC60 commands a premium price.
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6. Honda CR-V 1.6 DTEC
The British-built CR-V uses Honda’s latest 1.6-litre DTEC diesel engine, which claims fuel economy of up to 62mpg, and is one of the vehicles that most realistically gets close to that in real world testing. It’s also one of the most affordable and car-like SUVs to own and drive. A plug-in hybrid is said to be in the offing, but even in diesel form the stylish CR-V is a tempting package.
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5. Citroen C3 Aircross
The C3 Aircross isn’t an SUV for shy and retiring types, with its distinctive clamshell bonnet, tall and wide stance and colourful cabin. It’s certainly distinctive, yet at the same time extremely practical, with modular sliding rear seats and a huge load bay despite its relatively compact dimensions. Plus, in 100PS BlueHDi format, it’ll deliver a claimed 70.6mpg.
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4. SEAT Ateca
The Ateca is one of the most commendable family cars on the market at the moment, with the only downside at present being the lack of a seven-seat option (this will change next year, apparently). Great value, stylish, well-equipped and practical, the Ateca ticks all the boxes that SUV buyers generally look for. Plus, the 2.0 TDI model is capable of up to 62.8mpg.
3. Kia Niro
There’s no diesel option in the new Kia Niro, with the Korean manufacturer instead looking towards a petrol-hybrid powerplant, using a 1.6-litre direct injection petrol engine combined with a direct-drive hybrid unit, fed to the powertrain through a dual clutch automatic transmission. It’s technologically advanced and capable, with fuel economy of up to 74.3mpg.
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2. Renault Kadjar
The Kadjar’s chunky looks make it more SUV than crossover, though it’s priced to compete with the latter, making it quite an enticing proposition for those who like the idea of chunky off-road looks and a raised ride height. Add in 74.3 mpg fuel economy from the 1.5-litre dCi 110 model and you’re left with a car that has plenty of appeal for economy-minded motorists.
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1. Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV
Mitsubishi created the concept of the plug-in hybrid SUV, and while others have come along with a similar idea, most of them compete in the luxury market. That means that the Outlander PHEV, from £36,500 with government grant, makes a lot of sense in the conventional SUV market, especially given that it’s one of the more spacious and practical cars on the market. Of course, it’s official 166mpg economy isn’t realistic once the electric-only range has run out, but it remains a pioneer and a trendsetter even today.
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If you’re looking for a high end SUV, take a look at our top 10 luxury SUV guide.