SUVs and Crossovers
Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and Crossovers have taken over the market as North America’s favorite vehicle type, and we’re starting to see more companies turn out hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric versions of their utility vehicles. While taller, heavier SUVs do not reach the level of fuel efficiency of smaller vehicles in terms of miles-per-gallon, more efficient combustion technologies and battery assistance can greatly improve their efficiency, especially the boost of torque from the electric motor helping to get a larger car moving.
While companies like Audi and Jaguar are racing to deliver luxury electric SUVs to compete with the Tesla Model X, Toyota has delivered an affordable option in the RAV4 hybrid and Kia’s Niro Hybrid has the looks and practicality of a crossover without the added weight of all-wheel drive for car-like efficiency. The luxury market is getting crowded with plug-in hybrids from BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Volvo and Audi soon to follow, while Lexus has long had success with the hybrid RX450h crossover.
Name | Comb. MPG | Technology | MSRP | Available | |
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2016 Lexus RX 450h ReviewThe hybrid version of Lexus's most-popular vehicle is an economical have-it-all crossover. |
30 MPG | Hybrid | $53,185 | Now |
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2016 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid Review – VideoToyota's first hybridization of its RAV4 lets it ascend to the top of the EPA's mpg charts for non-electric SUVs. |
33 MPG | Hybrid | $29,270 | Now |
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2017 Kia Niro Review – VideoAs Kia’s first dedicated hybrid, the Niro blends very good fuel economy, sporty intentions, and crossover styling. |
50 MPG | hybrid | $23,785 | Now |
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2018 MINI Cooper SE Countryman Plug-In Hybrid ReviewMini's push to electrification starts with this large for a Mini but still small for an SUV utility vehicle. |
65 MPG | Plug-in Hybrid | $37,650 | Now |