How to Compare SUVs for MPG

Engine type and vehicle size can affect the fuel mileage of SUVs.

Sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) have a reputation as gas guzzlers, but not all models are the worst offenders for gas mileage on the road. There are a few factors to consider when you compare miles per gallon (mpg) of fuel for various SUVs.

Engine Types

SUVs with a hybrid engine get better gas mileage than those that run on gasoline only. For example, a 2011 hybrid Cadillac Escalade with an eight-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive gets 20 mpg in the city, but only 13 mpg if you choose to use gasoline-only in the flexible-fuel model. Hybrid models combine gasoline engines and electric motors to offer improved fuel economy. Flexible-fuel models can run on gasoline or E85, a blend of ethanol and unleaded gasoline. Another factor to consider is the number of cylinders in the engine. Vehicles with smaller engines usually get better gas mileage because they offer less horsepower and torque.

SUV Size

Smaller SUVs tend to deliver better fuel economy than larger models. When outfitted with two-wheel-drive, a 2010 Hyundai Tucson gets 31 mpg on the highway, while a 2011 Chevrolet Suburban gets 21 mpg. The Suburban has an overall length of 222.4 inches, while the Tucson measures 173.2 inches long.

City vs. Highway

SUVs get more miles per gallon on the highway because of far fewer stops. For example, a Chevrolet Equinox with front-wheel drive gets 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the interstate.

References

• Fueleconomy.gov: Search By Class
• Chevrolet: 2011 Chevy Suburban SUV Features and Specs
• Hyundai: 2010 Tucson Specifications
• JDPower.com: Choosing the Right Engine Size