Looking to upgrade your ride to something more fuel-efficient without breaking the bank? You’re in luck! The used car market is brimming with versatile crossover SUVs that offer excellent gas mileage. These car-based SUVs provide a sweet spot of practicality and efficiency, making them ideal for individuals and families alike. Forget about gas-guzzling behemoths; we’ve compiled a list of 10 used crossovers that excel in fuel economy, proving you don’t have to compromise on space or comfort to save at the pump. Based on recommendations from automotive experts, these models represent some of the best choices available for budget-conscious buyers seeking Crossovers With Good Gas Mileage. Let’s dive into the top picks that will keep your wallet and the environment a little greener.
1) 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid — Impressive City & Highway MPG
The 2012 Ford Escape Hybrid stands out as a top contender in the used crossover market for fuel efficiency. Boasting EPA ratings of 34 MPG in the city and 31 MPG on the highway, this model is a true gas saver. Its hybrid powertrain combines a 155-horsepower gasoline engine with a 94-horsepower electric motor, delivering responsive acceleration and smooth driving dynamics. While some reviews at the time of its release mentioned the interior materials were basic, the fuel savings offered by the Escape Hybrid are undeniable. For those seeking even more options, consider the Mercury Mariner Hybrid, which shares the same platform and fuel economy but was discontinued in 2010. Exploring both models can increase your chances of finding the right vehicle at the right price.
2) 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid — All-Wheel Drive Efficiency
Subaru is known for its standard all-wheel-drive system, and the Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid demonstrates that AWD and fuel efficiency can coexist. Achieving EPA ratings of 30 MPG city and 34 MPG highway, the Crosstrek Hybrid is an excellent choice for those needing all-weather capability without sacrificing gas mileage. Its 160-horsepower gas-electric drivetrain provides ample power for daily commutes and weekend adventures. While technically more of a raised wagon than a traditional crossover, the Crosstrek Hybrid offers a unique blend of versatility and efficiency. Cargo space might be slightly less than some competitors, but its fuel economy and Subaru’s renowned reliability make it a compelling option in the realm of used crossovers with good gas mileage.
3) 2014 MINI Cooper Countryman — Fun and Frugal (with Caveats)
The MINI Cooper Countryman might not be the first vehicle that comes to mind when thinking about fuel efficiency, but the 2014 model deserves a spot on this list. This compact crossover SUV can reach up to 28 MPG in the city and an impressive 35 MPG on the highway. However, these figures are specific to the base model with the manual transmission and 121-horsepower engine. Another factor to consider is that the Countryman requires premium fuel, which can offset some of the fuel savings. Despite these caveats, the MINI Cooper Countryman offers distinctive styling and agile handling, making it a fun-to-drive option for those who prioritize fuel economy but still want a touch of personality in their crossover.
4) 2015 Nissan Juke — Bold Styling, Efficient Performance
If you’re looking for a used crossover that stands out from the crowd, the Nissan Juke is worth considering. This hatchback SUV boasts a unique and polarizing design, but beneath the bold exterior lies a surprisingly efficient and fun-to-drive vehicle. Powered by a turbocharged 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 188 horsepower, the Juke offers spirited performance while achieving 28 MPG city and 34 MPG highway when equipped with the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Like the MINI, the Juke also requires premium gasoline, so factor that into your fuel cost calculations. Nonetheless, the Nissan Juke provides a distinctive blend of style, performance, and fuel economy in the used crossover market.
5) 2015 BMW X3 — Luxury Crossover with Diesel Efficiency
For buyers seeking a touch of luxury without sacrificing fuel economy, the BMW X3 is an excellent used crossover choice. Specifically, the xDrive28d model, equipped with a 180-horsepower turbodiesel engine and all-wheel drive, achieves an impressive 27 MPG city and 34 MPG highway. The BMW X3 xDrive28d provides a premium driving experience with a wealth of luxury features, combined with remarkable fuel efficiency for its class. If the diesel variant proves difficult to find, the base gasoline-powered X3 also offers respectable fuel economy and is likely to be more readily available on the used market.
6) 2015 Honda CR-V — A Perennial Favorite for Fuel Sipping
The 2015 Honda CR-V is a consistently popular compact SUV, and for good reason. It excels in numerous areas, including fuel efficiency, making it a smart choice for used crossover shoppers. With EPA ratings of 27 MPG city and 34 MPG highway, the CR-V balances performance, comfort, and economy effectively. Its 185-horsepower 4-cylinder engine provides adequate power for everyday driving, and the introduction of a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for the 2015 model year further enhanced fuel efficiency. While even older CR-V models are known for their reliability and efficiency, the 2015 and newer versions offer a slight edge in gas mileage.
7) 2015 Mazda CX-5 — Fun-to-Drive Efficiency
The 2015 Mazda CX-5 demonstrates that fuel-efficient crossovers can also be engaging to drive. Known for its athletic handling and responsive steering, the CX-5 feels more nimble than many of its competitors. The base 155-horsepower 4-cylinder engine provides good fuel economy, achieving up to 26 MPG city and 35 MPG highway. For a small step up in power, the available 184-horsepower engine only slightly reduces city MPG, making it a worthwhile upgrade if your budget allows. The Mazda CX-5 is a standout choice for those who prioritize driving enjoyment alongside fuel efficiency in a used crossover.
8) 2015 Nissan Rogue — Practicality with a Touch of Refinement
The Nissan Rogue offers a more mainstream alternative to the Juke, providing a practical and refined compact SUV experience. The 2015 Nissan Rogue achieves a solid 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway, balancing fuel economy with everyday usability. Its 170-horsepower 4-cylinder engine delivers adequate performance, and the Rogue’s interior is often praised for its upscale feel compared to other vehicles in its class. With comfortable seating for five passengers and a versatile cargo area, the Nissan Rogue is a well-rounded used crossover that doesn’t compromise on fuel efficiency.
9) 2015 Buick Encore — Compact Comfort and Economy
The Buick Encore proves that even smaller crossovers can deliver excellent fuel economy without sacrificing comfort. This subcompact SUV achieves up to 25 MPG city and 33 MPG highway in front-wheel-drive configurations. While its 138-horsepower engine is not the most powerful, it’s sufficient for city driving and provides commendable fuel savings. The Encore’s cabin is surprisingly spacious for its size, offering comfortable seating and a quiet ride. The 2015 model year also introduced a standard mobile Wi-Fi hotspot, adding a modern tech feature to this fuel-efficient used crossover.
10) 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid — A Budget-Friendly Hybrid Option
Rounding out our list is a slightly older but still relevant option: the 2009 Saturn VUE Hybrid. Despite the Saturn brand being discontinued, the VUE Hybrid remains a viable choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a used hybrid crossover. Offering 25 MPG city and 32 MPG highway, the VUE Hybrid provides a good balance of fuel economy and practicality. If you’re open to considering less common brands, the Saturn VUE Hybrid can be a hidden gem in the used market, offering hybrid efficiency at an accessible price point.
