What is the most fuel-efficient Acura car?

The best answer is: the Acura Integra, powered by a 1.5-liter turbo engine and a CVT, offers the highest fuel economy in Acura’s current lineup.

In this article, we’ll explain why the Integra leads on efficiency, compare it to other Acura models, and note how drivetrain choices and driving conditions can affect actual mpg.

Here is a quick snapshot of the models that are typically considered the most fuel-efficient in Acura’s modern lineup.

• Integra (2023–present): 1.5L turbocharged engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT); front-wheel drive. This configuration delivers Acura’s best fuel economy in typical configurations, with EPA estimates around 31 mpg city, 40 mpg highway, and about 34 mpg combined.


• MDX Sport Hybrid: A larger SUV that uses a hybrid system to improve efficiency over the gas-only MDX; overall mpg tends to be in the mid-20s combined, depending on driving conditions and equipment.


• RDX (non-hybrid, 2.0L turbo): A compact SUV with efficiency benefits from turbocharged power, generally in the mid-20s combined range depending on drivetrain and tires.


• TLX (2.0L turbo): A midsize sedan with mpg typically in the mid-to-high 20s combined, influenced by drivetrain and wheel/tire choices.

Overall, the Integra stands out as the most fuel-efficient option in Acura’s current lineup, with hybrid and turbocharged options offering improvements over their non-hybrid siblings but not surpassing the Integra’s efficiency in everyday driving.

Why Integra leads on efficiency

The Integra’s efficiency advantage comes from pairing a small-displacement turbo engine with a lightweight chassis and a CVT that helps keep engine RPM low at highway speeds. This combination minimizes fuel use during steady cruising, which is where mpg gains show up most clearly in real-world driving. The availability of front-wheel drive on the standard configuration also helps maximize efficiency compared with all-wheel-drive setups.

Engine and drivetrain choices

Most efficient Acura models rely on a compact turbo engine or a hybrid system paired with efficient transmissions. The Integra’s 1.5L turbo is tuned for economy, and the CVT keeps engine speed optimal across a range of speeds. Hybrid options like the MDX Sport Hybrid use electric assist to improve overall efficiency, particularly in urban driving, but their larger size and heavier weight generally keep them from matching the Integra’s highway efficiency.

Summary

For the current Acura lineup, the Integra is the most fuel-efficient model, thanks to its 1.5L turbo engine and CVT paired with front-wheel drive. If you prioritize efficiency in a larger package or want hybrid benefits, Acura offers hybrid options such as the MDX Sport Hybrid, which improve overall efficiency over their non-hybrid counterparts but typically do not reach the Integra’s EPA-rated numbers. Always check the EPA ratings for the exact configuration you’re considering, and remember that real-world mpg can vary with driving style, terrain, and tire choices.

In short: if fuel economy is your top priority in an Acura, the Integra is the best option. For a balance of efficiency and space or for hybrid benefits, consider the MDX Sport Hybrid or other hybridized Acura models, keeping in mind that real-world results depend on how you drive.

Summary: The Integra leads on efficiency in Acura’s current lineup, with hybrids offering higher efficiency in larger models, while non-hybrid turbocharged models sit in the mid-20s to mid-30s mpg range depending on configuration and conditions. Always verify the latest EPA numbers for the exact trim you’re eyeing.

Which Acura has the best MPG?

The most fuel-efficient Acura model is the 2025 Acura ZDX all-electric SUV, which achieves an EPA-estimated 90 MPGe combined in its rear-wheel-drive A-Spec trim. Among gasoline-powered vehicles, the Acura Integra is the most fuel-efficient, with the base CVT model getting an EPA-estimated 30 mpg city / 37 mpg highway / 33 mpg combined. 
All-electric

• 2025 Acura ZDX: The most fuel-efficient model overall, achieving up to 90 MPGe combined. 

Gasoline-powered

• Acura Integra: The most fuel-efficient gas model, with up to 33 mpg combined. It is available with a CVT or a 6-speed manual transmission. 
• Acura TLX: The next most efficient gasoline sedan, with up to 25 mpg combined. 
• Acura RDX: A fuel-efficient option for those seeking a more compact SUV, with up to 24 mpg combined. 
• Acura MDX: The least fuel-efficient model in the lineup, with up to 22 mpg combined. 

Is the Acura ilx or TLX better?

The Acura TLX is better for those who prioritize a more premium experience, with a larger size, more powerful engine options, a more refined interior, and a smoother ride. The ILX is better for those on a tighter budget who want a more agile and compact vehicle, though its interior and ride quality are less refined and can feel less premium. The TLX is generally the superior choice if budget allows, due to its upscale features and performance.
 
Acura TLX

• Premium experience: Has a more luxurious and refined interior with better materials, more sound deadening, and a more comfortable and spacious cabin. 
• Performance: Offers more powerful engine options (up to 290 hp in some models) and available all-wheel drive for enhanced performance and handling. 
• Features: Includes more advanced features and technology, such as a more integrated infotainment system and standard power-adjustable, heated seats. 
• Size: As a larger, midsize sedan, it offers more passenger and cargo space, making it a better choice for families or those needing more room. 

Acura ILX

• Price: Has a lower starting price, making it the more budget-friendly option. 
• Agility: Is smaller and more compact, which some drivers may find more agile, especially at lower speeds. 
• Performance: Features a standard 201 hp 4-cylinder engine. 
• Ride quality: The ride can be less refined and can feel louder over rough pavement, as the interior is not as well-insulated as the TLX. 

Are Acuras good on fuel?

As others have said, 18-35 mpg is what you'll find. I've noticed that premium yields a few mpgs higher. I went from a 17 civic turbo to an 11 tsx and while the mpg is bad in comparison, i care less. It's a really fun car. Drove a 290 mile highway trip last week and averaged 33.5 mpg going anywhere from 65-78 mph.

Which is better, Acura MDX or RDX?

The choice between the Acura MDX and RDX depends on your priorities: the MDX is better for families needing more space, as it is a larger, three-row SUV with a more powerful engine and higher towing capacity. The RDX is better for those prioritizing a more compact size, fuel efficiency, and a sportier feel, making it ideal for city driving or smaller households.
 
You can watch this video to see a direct comparison of the Acura MDX and RDX: 55sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Mar 2, 2025
Acura MDX

• Best for: Larger families, carpooling, and those who need to tow. 
• Pros:
  • Spacious interior: Has three rows of seating for up to seven passengers and significantly more cargo space. 
  • More power: Features a standard 290-horsepower V6 engine and an available 355-horsepower turbocharged V6 in the Type S model. 
  • Higher towing capacity: Can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. 
• Cons:
  • Lower fuel economy: Gets slightly lower MPG compared to the RDX. 
  • Higher price point: Generally more expensive than the RDX. 

Acura RDX

• Best for: Singles, couples, and small families who prioritize a more nimble vehicle and fuel efficiency. 
• Pros:
  • More fuel-efficient: Offers better gas mileage than the MDX. 
  • More compact and agile: Easier to maneuver and park, making it well-suited for city driving. 
  • Lower starting price: More affordable than the MDX. 
• Cons:
  • Less passenger and cargo space: A two-row, five-passenger vehicle with less overall cargo volume. 
  • Lower towing capacity: Can only tow up to 1,500 pounds. 

This video provides an in-depth review and comparison of the two SUVs: 50sNapolean Hill's SeminarYouTube · Nov 28, 2024