Hybrid and electric SUVs may get the spotlight for efficiency, but not every driver wants to deal with hybrid systems or having to charge their SUV at home or in the wild. Fortunately, there are plenty of traditional gas-powered SUVs that deliver impressive fuel economy while keeping things simple under the hood (and under the car).
Whether you’re shopping for something compact, midsize, or full-size, there are options in the new car market for 2025 that balance performance with fewer trips to the pump. Here is a breakdown of the best gas- and diesel-powered SUVs for the best fuel efficiency, organized by size.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including fueleconomy.gov and Car and Driver.
Compact SUVs With Excellent Fuel Economy
2025 Nissan Kicks
The Nissan Kicks continues to punch above its weight class when it comes to fuel economy. With highway numbers reaching up to 36 mpg, the Kicks is one of the most efficient non-hybrid SUVs on the market. Its lightweight chassis and small 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine make it a smart choice for city driving and budget-minded buyers. Although it’s smaller than many rivals, the Kicks makes good use of its interior space and offers a comfortable ride. For drivers who make low running costs a priority, this subcompact SUV is hard to beat.
2025 Hyundai Venue
The 2025 Hyundai Venue is another compact SUV that proves you don’t need a hybrid to save money at the pump. Offering up to 32 mpg on the highway, it’s well-suited for city dwellers who want a vehicle that’s efficient and easy to maneuver. Its small footprint makes it easy to park and drive through dense traffic. Inside, the Venue offers more than you would expect for its price point. Some notable features include wireless smartphone connectivity, smart packaging, and plenty of safety features, which are offered as standard equipment. While the Venue doesn’t have the strongest engine in its class, it provides plenty of gusto for daily commuting while keeping fuel stops at a minimum.
2025 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul’s distinctive boxy shape isn’t just about style; it also hides a surprisingly efficient package. The gas-only Kia Soul earns up to 31 mpg combined and 35 mpg on the highway, making it one of the thriftiest small SUVs on the market. It’s especially appealing to buyers who want a mix of practicality, personality, and affordability. Practicality is a highlight here, as its tall roofline provides excellent headroom and cargo flexibility. For 2025, Kia has refreshed its driver-assistance suite and added more convenience features, giving the Soul strong value alongside its efficient performance. It’s a small SUV with big everyday usability.
2025 Toyota Corolla Cross (Gas Only)
Toyota’s Corolla Cross doesn’t just ride on the legendary Corolla nameplate, its also delivers excellent gas mileage. There are two different versions available: gas and hybrid. The gas-only model delivers up to 32 mpg combined and up to 33 mpg on the highway, making it a solid pick for buyers who want SUV practicality with sedan-like efficiency. With its versatile size, it strikes a balance between city-friendly dimensions and family-ready space.
Toyota also equipped the 2025 Corolla Cross with a host of standard safety features through its Safety Sense package, in addition to a smooth, comfortable ride. Long-term ownership costs are expected to be low, thanks to Toyota’s reputation for reliability. It’s the right blend of practicality and thrift for families and commuters alike.
Midsize SUVs Offering Good MPG
2025 Nissan Rogue (Gas)
The 2025 Nissan Rogue proves that a midsize SUV doesn’t have to guzzle fuel. Thanks to its turbocharged three-cylinder engine, it delivers up to 33 mpg combined and up to a staggering 37 mpg on the highway, which rivals some hybrids. It’s one of the best in its class for drivers who want generous space without sacrificing fuel efficiency. Beyond its fuel efficiency numbers, the Rogue offers a comfortable interior with premium materials, a large digital display, and advanced ProPilot Assist for semi-autonomous driving. Its combination of cutting-edge features and excellent fuel economy makes it a standout in the midsize SUV segment.
2025 Chevrolet Equinox (Gas)
Before the EV version takes over, the gas-powered Chevrolet Equinox remains a practical choice for buyers who prefer traditional engines. Offering up to 29 mpg on the highway, it’s competitive within the midsize SUV segment and continues to appeal to families. Chevrolet has given the 2025 model an updated infotainment system and improved cabin ergonomics, making it easier to use on long drives. Combined with solid safety ratings and reasonable ownership costs, the Equinox still has plenty to offer buyers who aren’t ready for an EV.
2025 Mazda CX-50 (Gas)
The 2025 Mazda CX-50 brings its signature sporty driving dynamics to the midsize SUV class while still returning around 30 mpg highway. It’s designed for drivers who value both efficiency and engaging driving dynamics, with precise steering and a composed ride that’s rare in this category. The CX-50 also has a premium interior space with near-luxury materials, a wide infotainment screen, and a modern driver-focused cabin. With its combination of fuel economy, refinement, and driving fun, it’s an excellent choice for those who want more than just practicality.
2025 Toyota RAV4 (Gas Version)
Even without hybrid assistance, the 2025 Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most efficient midsize SUVs. With up to 35 mpg on the highway, it continues to offer excellent value for fuel-conscious buyers while maintaining the rugged styling and dependability it’s known for. Inside, the RAV4 offers a spacious cabin, intuitive tech, and Toyota’s Safety Sense suite as standard. With a proven track record for reliability and strong resale value, the gas-only RAV4 is still a smart buy for drivers who prioritize both efficiency and long-term dependability.
Full-Size SUVs That Go Easy At The Gas Pump
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe With Diesel
The Chevrolet Tahoe proves that full-size SUVs don’t always mean terrible fuel economy. With its available diesel engine, the 2025 Tahoe can deliver up to 26 mpg on the highway, which is impressive for its size and capability. This makes it a rare choice for buyers who need three-row space but still want to save on fuel. The diesel Tahoe also excels in towing, offering a whopping 495 pound-feet of torque, which is good for hauling boats or trailers. Inside, it boasts a spacious cabin, user-friendly tech, and a wide range of trims from practical to luxurious. It’s a versatile family hauler that won’t punish you at the pump.
2025 GMC Yukon With Diesel
Sharing its platform and diesel powertrain with the Tahoe, the 2025 GMC Yukon achieves nearly up to 26 mpg on the highway. This makes it one fo the most fuel-efficient full-size SUVs you can buy without going with a hybrid. For buyers who want maximum size and efficiency, the Yukon with the diesel engine is hard to beat. The Yukon adds a little more prestige compared to the Tahoe with its luxurious interior, premium materials, and quieter cabin. It’s also available in multiple trim levels, including the luxurious Denali; it blends practicality with comfort while delivering impressive fuel economy.
2025 Ford Expedition 2WD
The two-wheel-drive version of the 2025 Ford Expedition may not be the most fuel-efficient offering on this list, but it’s more efficient than other full-size SUVs that you can buy if you don’t want to go the hybrid route. This version of the Expedition features a potent 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that delivers up to 24 mpg on the highway, which is a solid number for its class. It’s also very practical, with seating for up to eight passengers, strong towing capacity, and a bevy of in-cabin tech features. Ultimately, although the Expedition won’t touch compact SUV fuel economy numbers for fuel savings, it is one of the better highway performers in the full-size SUV crowd.
2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee (Non-Hybrid V6)
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee in its non-hybrid V6 form still manages respectable fuel economy, with up to 26 mpg on the highway. That’s impressive for an SUV known for its off-road capability and rugged appeal. Jeep continues to refine the Grand Cherokee to balance adventure with fuel efficiency. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offers upscale touches, modern infotainment, and versatile seating configurations. It’s a strong choice for buyers who want a comfortable daily driver that can also tackle rough terrain without having to worry about poor gas mileage.