Which Honda SUV has the best gas mileage?
The Honda CR-V Hybrid currently has the best gas mileage among Honda's SUVs, with EPA estimates around 38 mpg combined (roughly 40 mpg city / 35 mpg highway) for the front-wheel-drive version. The rest of Honda's lineup offers respectable efficiency, but the hybrid model is the standout for fuel economy. This article surveys the main Honda SUV choices and explains what to consider when shopping for an efficient family vehicle.
Model-by-model fuel economy snapshot
Here’s a quick look at how the main Honda SUVs stack up in terms of efficiency. Note that numbers are EPA estimates and can change with model year and drivetrain.
- CR-V Hybrid — Most efficient Honda SUV: about 38 mpg combined (≈40 mpg city / 35 mpg highway) in FWD; AWD is slightly lower.
- CR-V (non-hybrid) — Turbocharged 1.5L engine; roughly 30 mpg combined (approximately 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway) depending on whether you choose FWD or AWD.
- HR-V — Non-hybrid; about 31 mpg combined (roughly 28 mpg city / 34 mpg highway).
- Pilot — Three-row SUV; typically in the mid-20s in combined mpg depending on drivetrain (roughly 22–24 mpg combined).
- Passport — Two-row SUV with similar efficiency to the Pilot; usually in the mid-20s combined depending on drivetrain.
- Ridgeline — Unibody pickup/SUV; efficiency generally in the low-to-mid 20s combined depending on configuration.
For buyers who prioritize fuel economy, the CR-V Hybrid is the standout, especially for city driving where hybrid systems pay dividends.
Why the CR-V Hybrid leads the pack
The CR-V Hybrid pairs Honda's two-motor hybrid system with an Atkinson-cycle gasoline engine, optimized for efficiency over a broad range of speeds. The blend of electric assist, efficient transmission, and aerodynamic design helps it deliver the best EPA mileage among Honda's current SUVs while still offering practical space and comfort.
Hybrid vs non-hybrid tradeoffs
Choosing a hybrid typically means paying more upfront but saving on fuel over time. Non-hybrid CR-Vs are cheaper to buy and can offer similar daily usability, but they won't deliver the same mpg benefits as the hybrid version. Your decision should consider how you drive (city vs. highway), how long you plan to keep the vehicle, and your total cost of ownership.
Summary
Across Honda's SUV lineup, the CR-V Hybrid stands out as the best option for those chasing top fuel economy. For buyers who need lower upfront cost or more cargo and towing capability, the non-hybrid CR-V or other Honda SUVs offer solid efficiency with different tradeoffs. Always check the official EPA ratings for the specific model year and drivetrain you’re considering, as numbers vary.
