SUV MPG Reviews

April 23rd, 2008 | review, suv

It might seem odd that a website devoted to the topic of gas mileage would spend so much time on SUV reviews, but we’re simply listening to our audience. While it’s clear that the tide has changed, America’s tempestuous love affair with the SUV is far from over.

SUV reviews will be part of our editorial mix for as long as we keep buying the beasts. Rest assured that most, if not all, of our SUV reviews will focus on the more fuel efficient choices in each of the categories, from the cute Utes and Crossovers (CUV) to roomy seven and eight seaters. (But we won’t be driving a Hummer unless GM gets around to shipping a fuel-sipping hybrid or clean diesel.)

As of November, we’ve reviewed eleven SUVs and CUVs, including four hybrids and the only domestic diesel currently available in the USA:

Ford Edge (Loved the Sync audio system.)
Ford Escape Hybrid (40 MPG city?)
Honda CR-V (The CR-V grows up.)
Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel (Well worth a look if you tow.)
Lexus RX400h Hybrid (A super comfortable family cocoon.)
Saturn Vue Green Line Hybrid (Euro style and a huge sunroof.)
Subaru Forester (Roomy, comfortable and competent.)
Suzuki Grand Vitara (An honest-to-goodness 4×4.)
Suzuki SX4 Crossover (The most affordable AWD in America.)
Toyota Highlander Hybrid (Max MPG for 7-passenger SUV.)
Toyota RAV4 (Acceleration and fuel economy?)

Our goal is to have all of the hybrid SUVs covered as soon as possible and the diesels as they are available. Over the coming months, we’re slated to review a number of the latest models.

When an Escape Hybrid scores better gas mileage than a Smart Fortwo in the city, the term “Green SUV” can’t be considered an oxymoron.