Best mpg SUVs of 2024

While SUVs used to be known as gas-guzzlers, nowadays they can be far more frugal. From compact crossovers to spacious seven seaters, here are the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market.

There’s no hiding it: as a nation, we love SUVs. And, with over 60% of new cars registered in 2023 falling into the category — and seven of this year’s top ten best-sellers sitting in the SUV segment — it’s a trend that looks here to stay. But with ever-increasing fuel bills and rumours of a potential pay-per-mile road tax circulating, British drivers are looking for high-riding machines that maximise mpg.  

Not ready to make the move to a full-electric or plug-in hybrid? Fear not, these ICE and MHEV off-roaders are some of the most fuel-efficient SUVs money can buy.

Best MPG SUV (Crossovers)

Toyota Yaris Cross – 62.8 mpg

Often based upon their small and light supermini counterparts, crossovers offer some of the best fuel economy in the SUV world. With an official fuel economy rating of up to 62.8 mpg, Toyota’s 116 bhp electrified petrol Yaris Cross, is no exception. Plus, unlike some plug-in rivals, the self-charging Cross has proven it can achieve close to those figures during independent real-world testing.

Suzuki Ignis – 55.7 mpg

Suzuki’s Ignis is one of the smallest, lightest crossovers on the road, and that pays dividends at the pumps. Though it can be optioned with four-wheel drive, those seeking maximum mileage should opt for the manual, two-wheel drive, self-charging hybrid model.

Hyundai Bayon – 53.3 mpg

Based upon Hyundai’s popular i20 supermini, the Bayon is a relative newcomer to the compact crossover segment. Clearly, though, the raised ride height and more rugged looks haven’t had much impact on the i20’s superb fuel efficiency; Hyundai reports the same excellent economy for both the 99 bhp and 118 bhp variants.

Best MPG SUV (Midsized) 

Citroen C5 Aircross – 54 mpg 

More space doesn’t have to mean lacklustre economy — at least not with Citroen’s frugal C5 Aircross. Offering up to 720 litres of luggage capacity, the Aircross is roomier than many larger SUVs, but thanks to an ultra-efficient 1.5-litre diesel engine, it sips less fuel than several smaller crossovers. Win-win.

Renault Austral – 60.1 mpg

Built to rival the likes of Nissan’s Qashqai and Hyundai’s Tucson, Renault’s handsome Austral offers exceptionally strong fuel economy for an SUV of its size and performance.  Combining a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a dainty 1.7kWh battery, the Austral can reach up to 70 mph on pure electric power and never needs to be plugged in.

Toyota Rav4 – 50 mpg

Toyota’s venerable Rav4 has been around for three decades now, and this latest model is the most fuel-efficient yet. Despite sporting an unfashionably large 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine, the self-charging Rav4 is impressively economical. Depending on your driving style and commute length, a PHEV version is also available — purportedly achieving up to 282.5mpg — though such plug-in figures are rarely realistic for everyday driving.

Best MPG SUV (7-seaters)

Peugeot 5008 – 48.7 mpg 

When it comes to gas-guzzlers, 3-row SUVs are often the worst offenders. However, choose carefully and you can bag a 7-seater that returns a respectable mpg number. Peugeot’s futuristic new 5008, is one such machine. Thanks to a self-charging hybrid powertrain that recoups braking energy and reduces consumption around town by up to 30%, this sizeable beast isn’t much more expensive to fuel than a run-of-the-mill hatchback.

Skoda Kodiaq – 51.7 mpg

Skoda’s well-equipped and supremely practical Kodiaq also happens to be one of the most fuel efficient 7-seaters on sale. All engines return respectable mpg, but the 148-bhp 2.0-litre diesel is the most economical — though it returns even greater fuel economy in 5-seater guise.

Hyundai Santa Fe – 42 mpg

Last but not least, Hyundai’s all-new, retro-styled Santa Fe. As you can see, its sprawling wheelbase covers several postcodes, but you’d never know by looking at the running costs. Seating up to seven in comfort, the Santa Fe achieves 42 mpg in front-wheel drive, self-charging spec. Need more performance and traction? The 253-bhp, four-wheel drive plug-in model is quicker to 60 mph and costs nothing to tax — just don’t expect to get anywhere near the claimed 166 mpg figure unless you’re a predominantly urban motorist.

Which of 2024’s most efficient fuel-efficient SUVs takes your fancy? Or, do you think it’s time to make the move to all-electric motoring?

Hero image credit:  Renault