Who said you must drive a compact vehicle to save big on gas? If you’re looking for a vehicle with SUV-like space that also gets good gas mileage, crossovers are the spot. In recent years, crossovers have developed into the choice of U.S. drivers looking for comfort and flexibility with above-average fuel economy all in one. With gas prices continually rising, demand for fuel-efficient vehicles is also increasing, and modern-day car-based SUVs are producing numbers rivaling some sedans. With today’s intelligent engines and hybrid technology, many crossover vehicles are pushing, or exceeding, 30 to even 40 MPG, allowing drivers to drive more and spend less.
Whether running daily errands, going on a road trip, or commuting to work, a fuel-efficient crossover vehicle will enable you to cut back at the gas pump without sacrificing space or style. In this blog, we’ll look at the car-like rides that offer the best fuel efficiency on the road, so you can find the one that best suits your life and your budget.
The Art and Trickery of Fuel-Efficient Vehicles
- A fuel-efficient vehicle is manufactured to reduce gas consumption and increase mileage. A lot of this is because of the engine. Smaller or turbo engines burn fuel more optimally by using just the right amount to generate power without burning excessive fuel.
- Weight also greatly impacts efficiency since lighter weight requires less fuel to move that weight. Some manufacturers use aluminum over heavy steel to minimize the overall weight and still construct a ride that is strong enough to be structurally safe.
- The design also helps with fuel consumption. Cars with more streamlined aerodynamics cut through the air more efficiently. The less wind resistance, the more fuel savings.
- The tires make a difference, too. Specialty tires with less rolling resistance reduce the energy it takes to roll down the road. Reduced energy needed equals reduced fuel used.
- Modern vehicles also have innovative technology, such as a hybrid system, stop-start engines, or better transmissions. Innovative technology can alter how the car feels regarding smoothness and assist in conservation during idle periods, stop-and-go, or slow speeds.
- Improving fuel mileage can also be related to the driver. Keeping a steady speed, smoothing the brakes at all stops, and reducing idle time can drastically improve mileage.
When all of these work together, they provide a vehicle that is fuel efficient and can save you money in gas over time and reduce your trips to the fueling station.
The 2025 roster of crossovers is an outstanding balance of fuel economy, comfort, and convenience. Crossovers are designed for people looking to save on keeping their tank full but don’t want to sacrifice interior volume or styling. Many crossovers offer hybrid or electric models, while others have smaller engines that burn less fuel. They often have ample, comfortable interiors, advanced safety technology, and a comfortable ride. Whether in the city or on the road, these crossovers are made to go further while consuming less fuel.
1. Honda HR-V
- Price: Starting at $24,100
- Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway.
- Engine: 1.8-liter 4-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 141HP
The Honda HR-V is a compact crossover emphasizing practicality and efficiency. It has a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 141 horsepower and is paired with an automatic continuously variable transmission (CVT). The HR-V has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, a cost-effective choice for your daily commute.
It also boasts a Magic Seat that performs multiple cargo and seating functions, a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and an advanced Honda Safety Suite. Overall, the Honda HR-V’s compact size and quick steering response help you tackle your urban environment quickly.
2. Nissan Rogue
- Price: Starting at $29,230
- Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway.
- Engine: 1.5-liter VC-Turbo 3-cylinder
- Horsepower: 201HP
The latest Nissan Rogue provides a comfortable interior with numerous safety features. It is powered by a 1.5-liter VC-Turbo three-cylinder engine that produces 201 horsepower and 225 lb-ft of torque to balance performance and efficiency. The Rogue achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy combined rating of 31 mpg.
You’ll find a roomy cabin with lots of legroom and space to transport luggage, all with a simple-to-use infotainment system and an entire suite of safety features provided by Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite as standard. The Rogue stands out for its seamless ride quality and premium interior. These factors alone make competition in the compact SUV class tough.
3. Toyota RAV4
- Price: Starting at $28,275
- Fuel Efficiency: 27 mpg city / 35 mpg highway.
- Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 203HP
The latest Toyota RAV4 is well-known for its dependability and fuel efficiency. It has a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 203 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RAV4 has EPA estimates of 27 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, and its interior is spacious with nice materials and an easy-to-use infotainment system. Standard safety features include Toyota’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite, which has many driver-assistance features. The RAV4 is a popular choice in the compact SUV segment because it combines efficiency, comfort, and various features.
4. Genesis GV70
- Price: Starting at $41,500
- Fuel Efficiency: 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway.
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 300HP
The Genesis GV70 offers a luxury and performance combo in the compact SUV segment. It has a 2.5-liter turbo inline-four engine, which produces 300 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.
The GV70 is optioned with an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The GV70 has an interior with premium materials, a 14.5-inch infotainment display, and advanced safety features. The GV70’s ride is refined and has high-end features that make it a strong contender in the luxury compact SUV segment.
5. Porsche Macan
- Price: Starting at $57,500
- Fuel Efficiency: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 261HP
The Porsche Macan merges sporty action with daily usability. The base model sports a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 261 horsepower, while the Macan S features a twin-turbocharged 2.9-liter V6 with 375 horsepower. The Macan has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for the base model. The Macan has quality interior materials, a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and seats with support. Its nimble dynamics and robust engine types give it a strong performance in the compact luxury SUV segment.
6. Kia EV6
- Price: Starting at $40,900.
- Fuel Efficiency: Up to 310 miles range (EPA-estimated)
- Engine: 77.4 kWh battery with dual-motor AWD option.
- Horsepower: Up to 320HP
The Kia EV6 is an all-electric crossover that is both practical and powerful. It is fitted with a 77.4 kWh battery pack that gives it an EPA-estimated range of up to 310 miles before recharging. The Kia EV6 has options for multiple powertrains, and the dual-motor all-wheel-drive version has a maximum of 320 horsepower. The interior is outfitted with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment display and has a modern design. It can charge adequately fast to add 70% of the battery capacity in less than 18 minutes. The EV6’s range, performance, and technology make it an excellent candidate for the electric crossover.
7. Volvo XC90
- Price: Starting at $56,000.
- Fuel Efficiency: 21 mpg city / 30 mpg highway.
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged 4-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 316HP
The Volvo XC90 is a midsize luxury SUV recognized for its safety and Scandinavian design. It is available with several powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid variant with an EPA joint rating of 27 mpg and a fully electric range of 32 miles. Its interior offers a minimalist design, premium materials, and an infotainment screen designed to orient vertically. Safety equipment includes Volvo’s complete set of driver-assistance equipment. The XC90 is an excellent option for families focusing on safety, utility, and luxury.
8. Mazda CX-30
- Price: Starting at $22,950.
- Fuel Efficiency: 26 mpg city / 33 mpg highway.
- Engine: 2.5-liter 4-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 191HP
The Mazda CX-30 provides a premium quality choice in the subcompact SUV segment. Its base engine is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder developing 191 horsepower, with a six-speed automated transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-30 EPA estimates a 26 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Its interior includes premium materials, an infotainment screen of 8.8 inches, and supportive seating. The CX-30 offers precise handling with an upscale quality cabin, distinguished in its class.
9. BMW X1
- Price: Starting at $35,400
- Fuel Efficiency: 24 mpg city / 33 mpg highway
- Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder
- Horsepower: 228HP
The BMW X1 is a compact luxury SUV that balances performance and practicality. A 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine delivers 228 horsepower and is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The EPA estimates the X1 to deliver 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway. The interior boasts a driver-oriented cockpit, an 8.8-inch infotainment system, and cargo space. The X1 has sporty handling and plenty of premium features, making it popular in the luxury SUV segment.
10. Buick Envista
- Price: Starting at $23,495
- Fuel Efficiency: 28 mpg city / 32 mpg highway.
- Engine: 1.2-liter turbocharged 3-cylinder.
- Horsepower: 136HP
The Buick Envista is a fashionable compact crossover that combines stylish looks with practical features for everyday use. The Envista boasts a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine that generates 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. It is expected to deliver up to 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which is quite good for the class. The Envista’s fastback silhouette is modern and sporty, pulling design cues from the Buick Wildcat EV concept.
Inside, the Envista is large enough to carry four adults comfortably, features a prominent infotainment display, and is equipped with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes standard driver-assistance technology, including automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.
In conclusion, crossovers have made an enormous difference for drivers looking for space and fuel savings. The market is flooded with options that have clever engines, hybrid technology, and good mileage. Finding a spacious vehicle that won’t completely deplete your gas funds is easier than ever. Whether you want something sporty, luxurious, electric, or just plain practical, plenty of fuel-efficient crossovers are out there.
These vehicles demonstrate that you do not have to sacrifice comfort, style, or performance to save money at the pump; they more accurately illustrate that comfort, style, and performance can coexist with fuel economy. If you’re considering your next vehicle, a fuel-smart crossover could be just the thing for you.
