What cars waste a lot of gas?
In brief, the biggest gas guzzlers are full-size pickups, large three-row SUVs, and high-performance luxury or sports cars with large engines and substantial weight.
To understand why this matters, this report outlines the main categories that typically burn the most fuel, explains how EPA ratings relate to real-world driving, and highlights examples of models that have drawn attention for low fuel economy. It also offers practical tips for reducing wasted gas if you own or are shopping for one of these vehicles.
Which vehicle types are most prone to high fuel consumption
Below are the broad categories most associated with elevated fuel use. The notes highlight the factors—engine size, weight, and aerodynamics—that drive higher consumption.
- Full-size pickups and heavy-duty trucks — large cabins and powerful engines push fuel burn higher, especially in city driving or when hauling.
- Large three-row SUVs — seating for seven or more, plus extra weight and less aerodynamic shaping, tends to lower fuel economy.
- Luxury and performance cars with big engines — high displacement V8s and performance tuning deliver speed at the cost of efficiency.
- Older or non-hybrid powertrains — vehicles without modern efficiency tech or hybrid options generally consume more fuel.
These categories cover the bulk of the vehicles that routinely deliver the lowest fuel economy, though engine choices, drivetrain, and driving style can reorder the ranking on a case-by-case basis.
Why these cars burn more fuel
Fuel use rises with weight, engine size, and drivetrain complexity. Aerodynamics matter too—boxy shapes and roof racks increase drag, especially at highway speeds. Hybrid or diesel variants, or more efficient turbocharged options, can mitigate some of these effects, but traditional gasoline-powered versions in these categories remain relatively thirsty.
Representative models and configurations often cited for low efficiency
The following examples illustrate the kinds of models that commonly appear on lists of lower fuel economy. Exact EPA ratings depend on engine choice, drivetrain, and options, so check the specific build you’re considering.
- Full-size SUVs (large body-on-frame platforms) with V8s or heavy powertrains — typically seen in the mid-teens to low-20s combined, depending on configuration.
- Full-size pickups with powerful engines — similar ranges to large SUVs, influenced by payload, towing gear, and drive type.
- Three-row luxury SUVs with strong performance engines — often in the high-teens to low-20s combined, reflecting their weight and tuning.
- Performance-oriented cars with large displacement engines — even when highway efficiency is reasonable, city driving can drag overall economy into the teens.
For shoppers aiming to minimize fuel waste, consider smaller or lighter configurations, hybrid or plug-in options where available, and prudent driving habits alongside any vehicle choice.
Tips to cut fuel waste in these vehicles
Adopting smoother acceleration, maintaining proper tire pressure, removing unnecessary roof loads, and planning efficient trips can yield meaningful gains. Where feasible, explore models that offer hybrid powertrains, more efficient turbocharged engines, or smaller SUVs with advanced efficiency tech.
Summary
The vehicles that waste the most gas tend to be large and heavy, with substantial engine power. If minimizing fuel use is a priority, consider smaller, lighter, or electrified options and pair your choice with conscious driving habits to improve overall efficiency and reduce running costs.
