Major smiles thanks to efficient miles
These days, when it comes to crossovers or SUVs, you can almost have it all. More than just larger, higher-riding vehicles, modern SUVs are attractive, comfortable, and even fuel-efficient. No longer viewed as thirsty whales, some compact to midsize SUVs are as good as sedans and hatchbacks. Their rise has been driven by increasing fuel prices and environmental concerns, but the result is vehicles that can net 40 miles per gallon. That’s pretty impressive by almost any measure. In 2025, a handful of SUVs now cross the coveted 40-mpg threshold, proving you can have practicality and space without sacrificing fuel economy.
Much of this newfound SUV efficiency is made possible through hybrid, plug-in hybrid, or cutting-edge powertrains. Hitting 40 mpg is a lofty target, but this handful of SUVs pulled it off. For drivers, it means far fewer stops at the gas pump and significant savings over the lifetime of the vehicle. For automakers, achieving that benchmark in larger, heavier vehicles like SUVs represents huge engineering progress. Here are four hybrids that toe that line between gas and electric to achieve that coveted 40 mpg or more.
2025 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
Toyota
The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid has consistently been one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs on the market, and the 2025 model continues that tradition. While it’s on the cusp of being hybrid-only for the redesigned 2026 model, the current hybrid trim is still an impressively well-rounded vehicle. The RAV4 also happens to be the best-selling passenger vehicle in America, and for good reason. With a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired to Toyota’s proven hybrid system, the RAV4 Hybrid achieves around 41 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, with a combined rating hovering right at 40 mpg.
Toyota
What makes the RAV4 Hybrid special is its balance. It offers seating for five, a spacious cargo hold, available all-wheel drive, and Toyota’s reputation for reliability. The interior ergonomics and physical controls make operation easy for anyone, and their straightforward operation should be copied by some of its competitors. Performance is strong for a hybrid SUV, with 219 horsepower on tap and smooth, responsive acceleration thanks to its electric motor assist. For drivers who want an all-around SUV with excellent mileage and mainstream pricing, the RAV4 Hybrid remains a top choice.
2025 Honda CR-V Hybrid
Honda
Honda’s best-selling vehicle is the best it has ever been. The current generation Honda CR-V Hybrid ($35,630) blends efficiency with refinement. It also looks amazing coming and going, thanks to great sheetmetal and excellent proportions. Its cabin is spacious and practical, with one of the largest cargo areas in the compact SUV segment. The hybrid system provides quick acceleration from a stop while remaining smooth and quiet in everyday driving. With a two-motor hybrid system mated to a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, it delivers a combined 40 mpg, but front-wheel-drive models sometimes top that figure in city driving.
Honda
What makes the CR-V Hybrid stand out is how seamless the hybrid system feels. You don’t have to think about when the gas engine or electric motors are working because the transitions are nearly imperceptible, rare for a hybrid in any segment. The cabin is also a marvel with excellent ergonomics, great switchgear, and some of the best interior styling of any vehicle at this price. We especially love the honeycomb dash trim with the integrated HVAC vents. Just brilliant.
2025 Kia Sportage Hybrid
Kia
The Kia Sportage Hybrid is one of the most efficient and well-rounded compact SUVs in 2025. Powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, it produces a total of 227 horsepower. This setup gives the Sportage Hybrid both strong performance and excellent fuel economy. Front-wheel-drive models achieve up to 42 mpg city and 44 mpg highway, with a combined rating of around 43 mpg. Even the all-wheel-drive versions remain impressively efficient, hovering near the 40-mpg mark.
Inside, the Sportage Hybrid offers a modern and roomy cabin with striking dual digital displays, plenty of cargo space, and upscale touches that rival more expensive models. Kia also backs the Sportage with a generous warranty, making it an attractive long-term buy for efficiency-minded families. The cabin sports excellent materials and open-air styling, with futuristic aesthetics that belie its price tag. For buyers seeking the best balance of mileage, tech, style, and practicality, the Sportage Hybrid is one of the standout choices in 2025.
2025 Lexus UX 250h
Luxury buyers also have an efficient option in the 2025 Lexus UX 300h ($37,915), a subcompact luxury SUV that delivers big on mileage. The 2025 UX 300h AWD achieves up to 42 mpg combined, making it one of the most efficient SUVs sold in America. The FWD version gets an even better 43 mpg combined. Powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and two electric motors, the UX offers all-wheel drive and smooth, predictable performance. It’s not super quick, but the AWD version can get to 60 mph in under 8 seconds.
Although the UX 300h platform shares components with the Toyota Prius, the UX’s interior feels distinctly Lexus, with high-quality materials, a refined design, and plenty of technology. While it’s smaller than mainstream SUVs like the RAV4 or CR-V, it’s perfect for urban buyers who want premium features and efficiency in a compact footprint. It’s not the most practical SUV in terms of space, but for efficiency and luxury, the UX 300h leads its segment. There really is no other SUV that competes with it.
Final thoughts
For years, SUVs were the antithesis of fuel efficiency. Now, in 2025, there are a handful of models that prove you can have practicality and comfort without taking a beating at the gas pump. This kind of efficiency is no longer reserved for tiny econoboxes with double-digit horsepower. Shoppers who want even more savings can look at plug-in hybrids for even higher MPGe numbers or transition to full EVs for maximum efficiency. But for those who still want the flexibility of gasoline with real-world fuel economy, these hybrids are the sweet spot.