15 Most Economical SUVs in the UK

Looking for the most economical SUV in the UK? That’s great.

SUVs are popular for their comfortable driving position, family-friendly features, and spacious interiors. However, their larger size and weight affect fuel efficiency. That’s what most people think. To address this, we’ve selected the most economical SUVs — most fuel-efficient petrol and diesel cars, as well as hybrid models.

And remember: Carplus is here to help you purchase your vehicle on beneficial terms.

1. Ford Puma

The Ford Puma offers a raised driving position, an eye-catching design, and a miniature SUV shape. Both newer and older models also prioritise simple driving fun.

The 125hp version of the 1.0-litre EcoBoost three-cylinder engine features a best-effort of 52.3 mpg on the combined fuel economy test. The 155hp variant is less fuel-efficient for longer journeys, with a rating of 50.4 mpg. The 200hp ST is for those who want speed and don’t mind the official figures of 41.5 mpg.

2. SEAT Arona

The SEAT Arona is a small SUV based on the SEAT Ibiza hatchback with a spacious interior and enjoyable dynamics.

The entry-level 95hp 1.0 TSI model (1.0-litre petrol) provides nippy performance around town with 51.4 mpg fuel economy. The mid-spec 110hp 1.0 TSI engine is considered the optimal option, delivering an impressive 53.3 mpg. If you want more power, go for the 150hp 1.5 TSI DSG model. The 1.6 TDI diesel engine is the most efficient, averaging 70.6 mpg.

3. Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a sleek, spacious, and economical SUV with futuristic styling. It’s well-equipped, and the cabin feels upscale, especially in higher trims.

The Kona comes with a range of engine options, including a 1.0-litre unit with 120hp and a more powerful 1.6-litre engine producing 198hp. The smaller engine offers better fuel efficiency of up to 47.9 mpg, while the larger engine provides quicker acceleration but uses more fuel at up to 44.1 mpg. For maximum economy, go for the hybrid version.

4. Kia Niro

The Kia Niro, available in two different hybrid forms, offers excellent fuel economy and an enjoyable driving experience.

Both models use a 1.6-litre petrol engine and six-speed automatic gearbox, but the plug-in hybrid has a stronger electric motor. The official figures for the base model are 60.1 mpg and 106 g/km of CO2 emissions, which improves to 64.2 mpg and 100 g/km for the PHEV.

In real-world driving, the Niro has an all-electric range of 34 miles, better than many others.

5. Nissan Qashqai

If you’re in the market for economical SUVs with great value, consider the Nissan Qashqai. It’s a popular choice in the UK thanks to plenty of tech at a fair price.

Most buyers choose the 1.5 dCi diesel engines for their impressive economy figures of up to 74.3 mpg. There are also 136bhp and 154bhp versions available, with slightly lower efficiency. However, the four-wheel drive version is less efficient.

The hybrid technology adds economy and performance with a small electric motor.

6. Peugeot 2008

The Peugeot 2008 offers a punchy performance and a spacious cabin that accommodates tall individuals comfortably. There’s a choice between manual or automatic gearboxes that affects the level of control.

The most fuel-efficient 2008 is the basic 99bhp version, but the 129bhp petrol model with manual transmission is nearly as efficient. If you choose the automatic transmission with this engine, the efficiency drops a bit.

In 2024, there will be a new, more efficient mild-hybrid petrol for the Peugeot 2008.

7. SEAT Ateca

The SEAT Ateca is a top pick in its mid-sized SUV class — a great balance of practicality, affordability, and driving dynamics. It has competitive pricing, and this holds true for both new and used models.

The entry-level option is a 110hp turbocharged petrol engine, offered with a front-wheel drive and a six-speed manual transmission. It delivers decent performance in town with 46.3 mpg fuel economy. For more power, there’s a punchier 150hp 2.0-litre that achieves fuel efficiency between 52.3 and 58.9 mpg.

8. Škoda Kamiq

The Škoda Kamiq, another economical SUV, offers a great deal of interior space and decent economy across its engine options. With good build quality and clever fuel-saving features, it’s a fantastic all-rounder.

The 1.5-litre petrol engine is equipped with a manual gearbox and achieves mpg figures of up to 51.4, while the same engine with a DSG auto achieves 48.4. The 1.0-litre petrol options, with 95hp and 110hp, offer similar fuel efficiency — ranging from 53.1 mpg to 53.2 mpg. There are slight variations based on transmission choice.

9. Toyota C-HR

The Toyota C-HR offers a comfortable but still fun ride. It features a range of petrol engines, for example, an 181hp 2.0-litre engine with fuel economy figures of 53.2 mpg. The previous 121hp 1.8-litre engine, now available only on the used market, delivers an impressive 57.6 mpg.

Additionally, the C-HR GR Sport model has a unique all-wheel drive system with two electric motors producing 194hp and 57.7 mpg. The C-HR 2.0 PHEV goes as high as 313.8 mpg.

10. Toyota Yaris Cross

The Toyota Yaris Cross, a handsome self-charging hybrid, is one of those well-built, fuel-efficient SUVs that continues to impress.

The Yaris Cross features a 1.5-litre hybrid engine that provides efficient performance. While not particularly fast, it compares well with similar models like the Peugeot 2008. The model achieves up to 64.1 mpg and emits 100g/km of CO2. Opting for the all-wheel-drive version sacrifices some speed and fuel efficiency for improved traction in slippery conditions.

11. Renault Kadjar

The Renault Kadjar is comfortable and stable to drive, but it’s not particularly exciting or sporty. It’s surprisingly solid inside, unlike the reputation of many French cars.

In the current lineup, the Kadjar offers a single engine choice: the TCe 140, a 138hp turbocharged petrol engine that’s fairly economical — 44.8 mpg. If you go second-hand, the 1.5 dCi diesel SUVs get you a maximum efficiency of 74.3 mpg (official claim) and 111g/km of CO2 emissions.

12. Toyota RAV4

The Toyota RAV4 is a practical family car with a spacious cabin and standard equipment. Pre-2018 models deliver up to 26 mpg combined for traditional fuel, which isn’t remarkable.

Since 2018, all RAV4s have featured a full hybrid system, which has now expanded to include a plug-in hybrid variant. The standard RAV4 offers a decent amount of fuel consumption (48.7-50.4 mpg). The plug-in hybrid achieves the best fuel economy in the lineup — 242 mpg, with a 46-mile electric range and over 40 mpg post-battery use.

13. Suzuki Ignis

The Suzuki Ignis is one of the most economical small SUVs, with an affordable selling price and a raised driving position ideal for city driving.

Despite its modest 1.2-litre Dualjet petrol engine with 82bhp, it delivers ample power. The system with mild hybrid assistance lacks all-electric driving capability, but it significantly reduces fuel consumption. Depending on the configuration, fuel economy ranges from 52.4 mpg to 58 mpg. Additionally, the diesel option achieves 56 mph, which aligns with the hybrid variant.

14. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-Vs are economical SUVs that deliver sharp driving dynamics and generous standard equipment, coupled with ample interior space.

The 118bhp 1.6-litre diesel engine with two-wheel drive is a great choice with 64.2 mpg. Petrol variants offer more power and slightly quicker performance, but its fuel efficiency of 39.2 mpg and higher tax costs make it pricier to run.

The hybrid pairs a 2.0-litre petrol engine with an electric motor for 184hp and 42.8 mpg. The plug-in hybrid, pricier upfront, could hit 353 mpg.

15. Mazda CX-5

The Mazda CX-5 is competitively priced, generously equipped, and features a safe and stylish interior.

Overall, it’s a fuel-efficient SUV with a range of engine options. The 2.0-litre petrol engine offers smooth city driving and averages around 40 mpg. For motorway driving, the 2.2-litre diesel engines are better. The 150hp version returns around 50 mpg, while the 184hp version is slightly less fuel-efficient but more powerful for heavier loads.

Conclusion

It’s worth noting that while these are the most economical SUVs in their class, some still come at a higher price compared to hatchbacks, for example. However, this is to be expected because SUVs offer more in every parameter. Once you get past the higher price, you’ll enjoy the efficiency benefits that offset it.

Finally, at Carplus, you can continue your journey and secure financing from the best dealers.