Best Gas Mileage SUV

The Best Gas Mileage SUV On The Market In 2012 One of the most interesting chapters in the history of American car manufacturing has been the intro...

The Best Gas Mileage SUV On The Market In 2012

One of the most interesting chapters in the history of American car manufacturing has been the introduction of the SUV to the world market. Invented at a time when American cars were losing market share everywhere, some say that SUVs saved the industry. At the same time, these big overbuilt cars have been greatly criticized for their inefficient fuel use among other things. Wherever your opinion might fall in the debate, it is undeniable that SUVs have become a staple of the car market here and abroad as well as an undeniable fixture in modern culture. Currently, the industry is deeply invested in finding the best gas mileage SUV. Manufacturers understand that while customers are deeply in love with the power, safety, and size of these vehicles, increasing gas prices are quickly causing high operating costs to outweigh the positives.

The 2012 SUV market is full of new additions that strive to strike a balance between power and cost effectiveness. While the ideal solution is still a few years off, several of these cars have a lot to offer.

Top Three Best Gas Mileage SUV Vehicles

Heading up our list this year is the Ford Escape Hybrid. After years of less than impressive innovation, Ford has taken a huge step forward with this SUV, getting the best mileage rating in its class: 34 mpg city and 31 mpg highway. Hybrid technology now allows one of the biggest cars on the road to get the mileage that compact cars were getting just a few years ago. New engine tuning techniques also come into play here, allowing Ford to squeeze 177 horsepower out of a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine. While you won’t have the stump-pulling power of a Taurus, this SUV will easily get you and your extended family to the picnic on time and in style. Base price for the Escape Hybrid is $30,110, making it the best gas mileage SUV on the market this year. This car also gets excellent safety ratings.

Coming in second because of combined affordability and performance is the Hyundai Tucson GL. Hyundai has gained a reputation in recent years for competitive performance and reliability at very competitive prices, this year’s SUV offering is no exception. The Tucson lacks hybrid technology, contenting itself with a decent 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway.

With a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine and 165 horsepower, this SUV is comparable in power to the Ford Escape, though it is smaller and costs $10,000 less. This would be an economical choice for a family who want extra space and power without sacrificing maneuverability and a low profile for urban driving. Hyundai deserves kudos for designing this smaller SUV in a such a way that the interior feels large in accommodates cargo easily.

The Last SUV in our top three is probably the most fun to drive, and only stays out of the top spot because of it’s high sticker price. Starting at $43,935, the Lexus RX 450h is strictly upper class in both price and handling. Considering that it packs a powerful 3.5 L V6 engine unleashing 295 horsepower, this car gets an impressive 32 mpg city and 28 mpg highway thanks to hybrid technology. As usual, Lexus also offers excellent handling and the best design and materials inside and out. As well as being at the top with the best SUV gas mileage, this vehicle drives like a dream and has enough power for any situation.

Alongside several other promising SUVs this year, these cars are doing their part to keep big cars competitive in today’s economy. Hybrid technology and smart tuning mean that SUVs are now getting the same mileage that small cars were getting just a few years ago. More good news for consumers is that with offerings in all price ranges, there is certainly a best gas mileage SUV available that suits your needs as well as your bottom line.