Thirteen most fuel efficient SUVs in the Philippines

Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) are perhaps one of the most popular types of car in the Philippines. They are literally everywhere, from the lonesome roads of the countryside to the busiest streets of Metro Manila; which begs the question- what are the most fuel efficient SUVs in the Philippines?

Carmudi Philippines with the help of C! Magazine, reveals the thirteen most fuel efficient SUVs in the Philipppines. Not included in the list are premium SUVs.

1. Hyundai Tucson 2.0 CRDi 4WD

At first glance, you would not think that a car named after the second largest city in Arizona would be the most fuel efficient SUV in the country, but it is. The Tucson is thriftier than ever at 17 km/L when driven on the highway. This is all thanks to a recent mid-cycle refresh where Hyundai replaced the Theta-II engine with a new Nu-powered powerplant.

2. Ford EcoSport

The Ford EcoSport is one of the newest SUVs from its American manufacturer. Boasting a decently tall ride height and premium packages, the EcoSport brings more bang for your buck. Edging in front of its larger competitors in terms of fuel economy, this mini SUV has a thrifty 15.6 km/L consumption in highway conditions, thanks to a 1.5-liter in-line 4 engine.

3. Subaru XV 2.0i

For some time, the XV’s population has been increasing, replacing the popularity once enjoyed by its stablemate the Subaru Forester. But why? It's due to the XV’s good balance between premium packaging, exciting handling and extra ground clearance. And who could argue a fuel economy of 15.3 km/L on the open highway?

4. Chevrolet Trailblazer 2.8 LTX 4x2

When it was released, the Trailblazer became a game changer in the SUV category by bringing in the most complete package in its segment. Its 4x2 variant brings in a class-leading 369 Nm of torque with just the right amount of features. On the free road, it gives off an efficient 14.5 km/L run.

5. Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 R-eVGT

The Santa Fe pumps one of the most impressive small diesel engines in its core, enough to catapult it with 197 horsepower and 311 Nm of torque. Car reviewers have called it the perfect concoction of an SUV, minivan and crossover. A compelling 14.1 km/L fuel economy makes it a great passenger vehicle for families who are conscious of the extra fuel costs.

6. Toyota Fortuner G 4x2

Those who bought this mid-size SUV may be feeling like they struck gold. Making way for a new version, Toyota decided to stick their Variable Nozzle Turbo on a 4x2 diesel variant and it made all the difference. It has been dubbed one of the best all-rounders in the SUV category and will help you save more on fuel thanks to a consumption of only 13.2 km/L when highway driving.

7. Honda CR-V 2.4 SX

The Honda CR-V is turning away from its guzzling days and has decided to be more fuel efficient at 13.2 km/L. It is one of the few models that truly encapsulates the “crossover” design thanks to its very refined handling. It is also one of the few SUVs that runs on gasoline in this list and is perhaps the most practical and spacious five-seater crossover that uses gas.

8. Toyota RAV 4 J 4x2

The RAV 4 started the crossover phenomenon by conceptualizing an SUV with car-like drivability. Buying one will still not be a disappointment, especially because of its low fuel consumption of 12.9 km/L. For the curious, its name stands for Recreational Active Vehicle with 4-wheel drive.

9. Mazda CX-5 Sport AWD

Mazda’s Skyactiv Tehnology has brought the CX-5 to its fullest potential, especially when matched with an all-wheel drivetrain. Paired with an excellent interior that has great insulation and a classy design, one could say this SUV line has aged gracefully. It has an above par fuel efficiency grade of 12.7 km/L.

10. Ford Everest 4x4 LTD

Keeping its towering figure is the Ford Everest, which is expected to have its all-new design released early in 2015. Matched with a 4x4 drivetrain, it purposely gives away 156 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque, perfect for an off-roading trip. Its fuel economy stands at a manageable 12.6 km/L.

11. Chery Tiggo

The Tiggo may be a virtual unknown for many car buyers, but there is only one reason it has made it into our list- it is very fuel efficient. Running at 12 km/L on free roads, it makes up for its anonymity. This 5-seater SUV is lightened up by a 2.0 L in-line 4 engine which pours in 123 horsepower and 102 Nm of torque.

12. Ford Explorer 2.0 Ecoboost XLT

The Explorer EcoBoost brings the best value in its full-size SUV segment and is one of the cheapest models, with only the CX-9 beating it in price. It is also one of the few gasoline-engined SUV in this list. A fuel consumption of 11.9 km/L will likely dampen the initial cost of owning this great looking wagon.

13. Kia Sorento LX Gas 5-seater 2WD

When Kia Philippines entered the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA), it borrowed its team name from the Sorento, and for good reason. The Sorento is after all its flag carrier, and is one of the best models in its segment. This mid-size crossover drinks fuel at a rate of 11.9 km/L.

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*Fuel economy data was lifted from the Buyer’s Guide page of C! Magazine