Honda has always been known for building some of the most efficient and reliable cars and SUVs on the market. It seems that no matter which Honda vehicle you choose, you can’t go wrong, as is the case with its current lineup of SUVs. But what if you want the most fuel-efficient Honda SUV? Which one should you choose?
Surprise! The most fuel-efficient Honda SUV is a hybrid
For the 2023 model year, there are four different sling SUV to choose from: HR-V, CR-V, Passport and Pilot. If you are looking for the one that consumes the least amount of fuel, then you will have to choose the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid. According to Honda, the CR-V Hybrid can achieve up to 43 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, according to EPA estimates. .
It gets its stellar fuel efficiency from a 2.0-liter engine that’s paired with dual electric motors, giving it plenty of midrange power and low-end grunt. Speaking of power, the hybrid powertrain makes a combined 204 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, and it’s paired with a shift-simulating CVT. That’s not a bad thing considering traditional CVTs tend to run at cruising speeds.
The second most fuel-efficient Honda is also its best-selling model
For buyers who don’t like hybrids, the non-hybrid Honda CR-V is the second most fuel-efficient SUV. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine that produces 190 hp and 179 lb-ft of torque. This setup is good for an EPA-estimated 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, making it surprisingly more efficient than the HR-V, Honda’s smallest crossover.
In addition to its exceptional fuel economy numbers, the CR-V comes standard with many comfort and convenience features. Inside, there’s a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a host of standard safety features.
Some of those safety features include full LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, a collision mitigation braking system, blind-spot monitors, and a multi-angle rearview camera. Moving up to the higher trims unlocks more features like a leather interior, a power liftgate, a larger 9-inch touchscreen, and wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto.
What about the Honda HR-V?
In case you were wondering, the new 2023 Honda HR-V is quite fuel efficient even though it isn’t the most fuel efficient model around. The EPA estimates that you can get a maximum of 26 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. That fuel efficiency is made possible by a recently revised 158-hp 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that’s mated to a CVT.
We recently had the opportunity to drive the 2023 Honda HR-V and were impressed with its comfortable driving dynamics. The engine feels snappy and provides adequate power to keep the car moving smoothly and quickly. However, we found that the CVT tends to stall power a bit on initial acceleration and going uphill.
Otherwise, the HR-V offers an outstanding, fuel-efficient package for just over $20,000. But of course, if you want the most fuel efficiency for your money, go for the Honda CR-V Hybrid, you won’t be disappointed.
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