Looking for a used SUV that does it all? These 2015 fuel-efficient SUVs cost less than $30,000, but still have enough tech and features to satisfy many buyers. Also, Lexus, BMW and Subaru sport utility vehicles have high safety scores.
As far as fuel-efficient SUVs of 2015 go, the Lexus NX 300h Hybrid does it all
Some say that 2015 was a bumper year for the fuel-efficient SUV segment. edmunds says the 2015 Lexus NX 300h Hybrid turns out to be the best of the bunch. The NX 300h gets 35 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, which works out to 33 combined.
Some standard safety features on the 2015 NX include anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, and full-length front and side curtain airbags. Lexus also included a rearview camera for added safety and convenience. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the 2015 Lexus NX 300h Hybrid high scores in all of its crash tests. These high scores were enough to earn a Top Safety Pick award.
Fuel Economy: 35 City / 31 Highway / 33 Combined
List Price Range: $26,202 – $30,990
The Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid is a fuel-efficient SUV under $30,000
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You may have a hard time finding the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid just because it’s popular but not a high-volume vehicle. It has standard all-wheel drive, off-road capabilities, and 31 mpg combined fuel economy. If you can find one with Subaru’s EyeSight safety package, this adds adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and a forward collision mitigation system.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid a five-star safety rating. In major tests like the frontal, side, and rollover tests, the XV received high scores. While the XV Crosstrek didn’t stick around for long, it’s a good fuel-efficient SUV from 2015.
Fuel Economy: 30 City / 34 Highway / 31 Combined
List Price Range: $21,998
Take a look at the well-equipped BMW X3 Diesel
The 2015 BMW X3 Diesel (or xDrive28d) remains one of the most fuel-efficient SUVs of that era. Inside, the X3 diesel’s cabin uses high-quality materials and has comfortable seats. The X3 has been around for a long time and fills the role of a dependable luxury SUV. Not to mention 30 mpg combined fuel economy.
BMW included antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, and additional front and side airbags. Try to find one with four-wheel drive to control going downhill, which is helpful for those who live in colder climates. Both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration gave the 2015 X3 high scores for safety. The BMW X3 earned a five-star safety rating and high scores of “good” in these critical safety tests.
Fuel Economy: 27 City / 34 Highway / 30 Combined
List Price Range: $18,500 – $27,990
These three good options combine a reasonable price and good fuel economy. For those who want a luxury SUV but don’t want to pay those prices, a 2015 sport utility vehicle is a good compromise.