Best Gas Mileage SUVs Under $10,000 in 2025

You can get a used SUV under $10,000 that still delivers solid gas mileage for the segment. This guide covers seven models we recommend: Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Ford Escape. We compare MPG, price, and key strengths, and point you to tools like our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator and Car Affordability Calculator. For more comparisons, browse our guides and learn about AutoSpecs.

Why Fuel-Efficient SUVs Under $10K?

SUVs give you cargo space, ride height, and often AWD—but they usually burn more fuel than sedans. In the under-$10K used market, compact and small SUVs from the 2010–2016 era can still deliver mid-to-high 20s MPG (combined), which keeps fuel costs manageable. Targeting efficiency in this budget means more miles per gallon without giving up utility. Use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to see how a 28 MPG SUV compares to a 24 MPG one over a year of driving—the difference can add up. Our Car Affordability Calculator helps you stay under $10K while leaving room for insurance and maintenance.

SUV Comparison at a Glance

Vehicle	Est. MPG (Combined)	Typical Price Range	Key Feature
Subaru Forester	26–29	$7,500–$10,000	Standard AWD, visibility
Toyota RAV4	24–28	$8,000–$10,000	Reliability, resale
Honda CR-V	26–28	$8,000–$10,000	Space, reliability
Mazda CX-5	26–31	$7,500–$9,500	Driving dynamics, efficiency
Hyundai Tucson	24–26	$6,500–$9,000	Value, features
Kia Sportage	24–26	$6,500–$9,000	Value, warranty history
Ford Escape	23–31	$6,000–$9,000	Variety of engines, low entry price

MPG and prices vary by year and trim. learn about AutoSpecs for specs.

Detailed Vehicle Recommendations

1. Subaru Forester

Pros: Standard AWD, 26–29 MPG, boxy shape for cargo and visibility, loyal following. Cons: In this budget expect older (e.g., 2010–2014) models; some years had oil consumption or CVT issues—research and get a PPI. Best for: Buyers who want AWD and practicality without a truck-based SUV.

2. Toyota RAV4

Pros: Strong reliability and resale, 24–28 MPG, good cargo and safety history. Cons: In the $10K range you’ll see older (e.g., 2009–2013) examples; base trims can feel dated. Best for: Prioritizing long-term reliability and MPG in a compact SUV.

3. Honda CR-V

Pros: 26–28 MPG, roomy interior and cargo, strong reliability, widely available. Cons: Theft and insurance on some model years; check recalls. Best for: Families and commuters who want space and efficiency in a trusted nameplate.

4. Mazda CX-5

Pros: 26–31 MPG depending on engine, one of the best-driving compact SUVs, good looks. Cons: In this budget expect first-gen (2013–2016); back seat and cargo lag some rivals. Best for: Drivers who want SUV utility with above-average handling and MPG.

5. Hyundai Tucson

Pros: Often the most SUV for the money, 24–26 MPG, decent features. Cons: Research engine/transmission by year; some had recalls. Best for: Value-focused buyers who want a compact SUV with acceptable MPG.

6. Kia Sportage

Pros: Platform sibling to Tucson, 24–26 MPG, good warranty when new, often cheaper. Cons: Same as Tucson—check model year for known issues. Best for: Maximizing features and space per dollar in a compact SUV.

7. Ford Escape

Pros: Multiple engine choices (4-cyl and EcoBoost), up to ~31 MPG in efficient trims, low purchase price. Cons: Quality and reliability vary by year and engine; avoid problem powertrains—for example, some EcoBoost and automatic combinations had issues, so research before buying. Best for: Shoppers who research the specific year/engine and want a low entry price. A well-chosen Escape can undercut a same-year RAV4 or CR-V while still delivering good fuel economy; learn about AutoSpecs can help you compare trims and specs.

FWD vs AWD and Real-World MPG

Many of these SUVs were offered in both FWD and AWD. Front-wheel drive typically returns 1–3 MPG better and costs less to buy and maintain. If you don’t need all-wheel drive for snow or loose terrain, choosing FWD can save you money at the pump and at purchase. When comparing listings, note the drivetrain and check EPA ratings for that specific configuration at fueleconomy.gov. Our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator can then show you the impact on your annual fuel bill.

How We Chose These Picks

We focused on compact or small crossover SUVs that frequently appear under $10,000 in the used market. We required competitive EPA combined MPG for the segment (typically 24+ MPG, with higher for Mazda CX-5 and efficient Escape trims). We considered reliability and repair cost from mainstream sources and owner feedback, and favored models with decent safety ratings for their year. We excluded SUVs with major known drivetrain or structural issues in the years that fall into this price band. Our approach matches browse our guides and learn about AutoSpecs.

Buying Tips

• Get a pre-purchase inspection. SUVs in this price range may have hidden rust, suspension wear, or drivetrain issues.
• Check AWD vs FWD: Forester is AWD standard; others often offer FWD (better MPG) or AWD. Choose based on your climate and needs.
• Research the exact year: Subaru (CVT, oil use), Ford (EcoBoost, transmission), and Hyundai/Kia (engine recalls) all have model-year quirks.
• Use Annual Fuel Cost Estimator to compare fuel costs and Car Affordability Calculator to stay within budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best MPG I can expect from an SUV under $10,000?

In this budget, efficient compact crossovers like Mazda CX-5 and some Ford Escape trims can reach around 28–31 MPG combined. Most others (RAV4, CR-V, Forester, Tucson, Sportage) typically sit in the 24–29 MPG range depending on year and drivetrain.

Is the Subaru Forester reliable at this price and age?

Foresters in the $7.5K–$10K range are often 2010–2014. Some of those years had oil consumption or CVT concerns. Have a PPI and research the specific model year; a well-maintained Forester can still be a good buy.

Should I avoid the Ford Escape?

Not automatically. The Escape was sold in huge numbers with several engines. Some powertrains had issues; others are fine. Research the exact year and engine (e.g., 2.5L, 1.6L EcoBoost, 2.0L EcoBoost) and get a PPI.

FWD or AWD for best gas mileage?

FWD typically delivers 1–3 MPG better than AWD in the same model. If you don’t need AWD for snow or terrain, FWD will save fuel and often cost less to buy and maintain.

How do I compare total cost of ownership?

Use our Annual Fuel Cost Estimator for fuel, Car Affordability Calculator for budget, and browse our guides for maintenance and ownership topics. learn about AutoSpecs can help with trim and spec comparisons.

Conclusion

Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, and Ford Escape can all deliver decent gas mileage in the under-$10,000 used SUV segment. Choose by prioritizing AWD, space, driving feel, or lowest price, and always research the specific year and get a PPI. Use browse our guides, the Annual Fuel Cost Estimator, and Car Affordability Calculator to decide, and learn about AutoSpecs for detailed specs.