All-wheel-drive (AWD) is a great feature to have for peace of mind in slick conditions. Having AWD potentially requires the vehicle to power more than just 2 wheels, this uses more gas. Therefore AWD or 4WD aren’t known for being the most fuel-efficient vehicles.
SUVs are bigger and usually heavier, so this also means more fuel consumption. However, technology is getting better and fuel consumption is getting better. Here are some of the most fuel-efficient AWD SUVs for 2020.
Not included in this list are plug-in hybrids or battery electric vehicles (BEV) or high-end luxury vehicles.
Most Fuel Efficient AWD SUV’s (hybrids)
All fuel economy numbers are EPA estimates. Split into two categories: Hybrid and Regular Gasoline powered SUVs (non-hybrids).
Ford Escape Hybrid AWD
Powered by a 2.5L Atkinston cycle gasoline engine and electric motor, the 2020 Ford Escape Hybrid is a top choice for a fuel efficient AWD SUV. (Not to be confused with the plug in hybrid which is FWD). Pricing on a 2020 Ford Escape SE Sport Hybrid AWD starts at $31,010 MSRP*.
Toyota RAV4 Hybrid AWD
No surprise the 2020 RAV4 Hybrid is one of the most fuel efficient AWD SUV’s with Toyota being a leader in hybrids. Available in four different trim levels the 2020 Toyota RAV4 AWD hybrid is powered by a 2.5L 4-cyl. gasoline engine, and an electric motor. Pricing on a 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD starts at $29,470 MSRP*.
Honda CR-V Hybrid AWD
New for 2020 is the hybrid version of the Honda CR-V. Powered by a 2.0L Atkinson cycle 4 cylinder gasoline engine, two electric motors and an eCVT transmission.
Pricing starts at $28,870 MSRP*.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD
An all-new design for 2020, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is also a new and improved. Fuel efficiency is 24% more improved. 2020 Toyota Highlander’s have 3-row seating for up to 7 or 8 people. Pricing for a Highlander Hybrid LE AWD starts at $40,920 MSRP*.
Most Fuel Efficient AWD SUVs (non-hybrid)
2020 Toyota RAV4 AWD
2020 Toyota RAV4’s come with a 2.5L 4 cylinder engine, and even without the hybrid is one of the most fuel efficient AWD SUVs. Available in 6 different trims including the new TRD Off-Road edition (fuel economy is less for the TRD Off-Road).Pricing for the 2020 Toyota RAV4 LE AWD starts at $28,470 MSRP*.
Subaru Crosstrek AWD
A small crossover, this AWD has been around since 2013, has a rugged appearance and handles like a car. The Subaru Crosstrek AWD is also one of few cars still available with a manual transmission. Powered by a 2.0L H4 gasoline engine and CVT transmission. A Plug-in hybrid version is also available. Pricing starts at $23,155 MSRP*.
Honda HR-V AWD
Smallest of the Honda SUV’s, (a subcompact crossover) the Honda HR-V is powered by a 1.8L gasoline engine, the Honda HR-V is available in six different trims including a sport model.Pricing for a 2020 Honda HR-V AWD LX starts at $23,440 MSRP*.
Subaru Forester AWD & Outback AWD
Both the Subaru Forester and Subaru Outback can both have the same fuel efficient 2.5L 4 cylinder boxer engine. Both vehicles have Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system.
Forester’s start at $25,505 MSRP* and Outback’s at $27,655 MSRP*.
Ford Escape AWD
A an-all new design for 2020, paired with the 1.5L engine, the 2020 Ford Escape makes it on the the list of the most fuel efficient AWD SUV’s.
Pricing for a 2020 Ford Escape S AWD starts at $27,630 MSRP*
Buick Encore GX AWD
Another vehicles thats an all-new model, Buick brings us a slightly bigger version of the Encore called the GX. This subcompact crossover is powered by a 1.3L turbocharged 3 cylinder engine. Pricing for a 2020 Buick Encore GX AWD starts at $27,095 MSRP*
Chevrolet Equinox AWD
Chverolet’s second-best selling vehicle after the Silverado is the Equinox. A compact SUV, the 2020 Chevrolet Equinox and GMC Terrain both have the option of the fuel efficient 1.5L turbocharged engine. Pricing for a Chevrolet Equinox LS AWD starts at $29,095 MSRP*.
Fiat 500X AWD
A subcompact crossover, the Fiat 500X comes with the option of a 1.3L turbocharged gasoline engine and 9-speed automatic transmission. Four trim levels are available; Pop, Trekking, Sport (new), Trekking Plus, all of which are AWD. Pricing for a 2020 Fiat 500X AWD starts at $26,085 MSRP*.
*MSRP pricing as quoted on the manufacturer website, includes manufacturer delivery fee, but does not include any dealer fees, discounts, rebates or incentives.
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This post was last modified on March 24, 2021 2:57 pm
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