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One of the more common used cars for sale, a grey 2021 Nissan Kicks, is shown driving from a city.

Top Fuel-Efficient Pre-Owned SUVs for the Budget-Savvy Driver

Are you browsing used cars for sale and looking for one that combines both performance and efficiency with a little style thrown in? While SUVs in the past might have been labeled “gas guzzlers,” automakers have refined their engineering to create top-performing vehicles with great fuel efficiency. Considering a pre-owned SUV is a great way to get a lot of bang for your buck, keeping fuel-efficient models in mind is a smart way to go farther on less.

Beyond the idea of saving money, opting for a pre-owned efficient SUV offers multiple advantages for drivers, from saving money on car insurance to doing your part to help lessen your carbon footprint little by little. When you buy a fuel-efficient used SUV, it’s not just about getting into a new ride, but you’re making a smart move both financially and environmentally.

Now that you’ve decided to go for a used SUV, you have to choose. Looking at the extensive range of diverse makes and models, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by choice. But you can relax; we’re going to explore some of the top pre-owned SUVs you can get right now in order to create a rewarding driving experience you can feel good about and doesn’t strain your pocketbook.

The 2021 Nissan Kicks

Nissan introduced the Kicks, a compact SUV with a hatchback twist, in 2018. It was popular immediately thanks to its combined fuel economy, which has stayed at a steady 33 MPG. When you get into a pre-owned 2021 Kicks, you can save an average of $1,250 in fuel costs over five years compared with other models of similar make and year. In contrast, if you bought a Starbucks coffee a day, that would be around $766 a year. So yeah, a lot of savings allows you to treat yourself during those early morning commutes when you’d rather be in bed.

This subcompact crossover is ideal for urban dwellers and commuters who want a small car to navigate tight spaces or limited parking, as well as save a few dollars at the pumps. The Kicks’ peppy engine and user-friendly vibe of the 2021 model mean you get the latest technology without the large brand-new price tag, helping you save even more and get a lot of value for your dollar.

The 2021-2022 Nissan Rogue

Another Nissan? It looks like the Japanese automaker really has its finger on the pulse of SUV buyers who want value and savings when it comes to picking up a pre-owned SUV. If you need something a bit bigger than the Kicks, check out the top-performing Rogue. The sporty small SUV seats five and delivers an exceptional combined fuel economy of 33 MPG.

The Rogue has a reputation for being a great, dependable family SUV that doesn’t ask for a lot. It also offers a more modern and upscale interior design than many other SUVs in its class, making it feel more expensive than it is. Whether you go for a 2021 or 2022 Rogue, you still get the same great fuel efficiency. However, keep in mind, when shopping, the 2021 and 2022 Rogue SL or Platinum trims offer a slightly lower combined fuel economy of 32 MPG. The affordable nature of the Rogue makes it a winner for families and solo drivers looking to save without cutting corners in the style department.

A man is shown sitting near the front wheel of a parked white 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross XLE.

The 2022 Toyota Corolla Cross

The Corolla Cross is a small SUV that packs a big punch. It also delivers a noteworthy combined EPA of 32 MPG. When you get into a 2022 model, expect to save as much as $1,000 in fuel costs over the course of five years in comparison to the competition. This cute little SUV offers a peppy performance and nimble steering that makes it fun to drive.

The Corolla Cross builds on the dependable name of the Corolla sedan, offering increased flexibility for the modern driver. The interior is airy and keeps things simple with easy-to-use tech that allows for an intuitive driving experience. Drivers who want a lot of value will find the Corolla Cross delivers in a big way. Cargo space? Check. Comfort? Yes! And lots of savings? Expect the Corolla Cross to not only meet but exceed your daily driving expectations!

The 2022 Hyundai Kona

The Hyundai Kona is a subcompact crossover introduced by Hyundai in 2018. It has a low starting price and great fuel economy, which makes it a double threat to other small SUVs in its class. Expect to get a combined fuel economy of 32 MPG when you opt for a pre-owned 2022 model. On a single tank of gas, expect to travel, on average, around 422 miles! That’s a lot of miles and savings, considering it costs under $50 to fill the tank, depending on current fuel prices.

There’s a lot to love about the understated Kona. It offers an exceptional safety rating and responsive handling, making it great for the casual everyday driver who wants peace of mind when dealing with heavy traffic. When you want safety and savings, depend on the 2022 Hyundai Kona to help you out.

2021 Buick Encore GX

Want some affordable luxury? Count on Buick to deliver with the Encore GX. This compact SUV is the smallest in the Buick lineup, but just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s not mighty. A zippy engine delivers responsive performance, plus you get a great combined fuel economy of 31 MPG. Expect to save upwards of $750 in fuel costs in the first five years when you get into a 2021 Encore GX.

The affordable pricing of the Encore is remarkable because of the SUV’s high-end design, which delivers luxury style without the high-end pricing. The roomy interior creates a spa-like feel with supportive seating, a soothing color pallet, and Buick’s exclusive QuietTuning technology that uses elements like coated glass and triple door seals to filter out noise pollution so you can relax and reflect when you’re behind the wheel. Looking for a sophisticated way to save? Keep an eye out for the bold and beautiful 2021 Buick Encore GX.

A person is shown walking towards a red 2022 Kia Seltos parked on a beach.

The 2022 Kia Seltos

If you’ve been keeping up with the SUV market lately, then you’ll know that Kia is making a big splash. With updated technology and engineering advancements, it has quickly become one of the most affordable and trusted brands on the market. If you’re shopping for a pre-owned model, the 2022 Kia Seltos excels when it comes to giving you a lot for your money.

The compact SUV delivers a great combined fuel economy of 31 MPG, which can help drivers save with every mile they travel. And comfort? Of course! The cabin is surprisingly roomy, considering its compact exterior. Plenty of cargo space and seating for five makes it easy to bring along everything your trip requires. The Seltos’ affordable nature combined with a great balance of comfort and performance make it a value powerhouse for drivers shopping for a pre-owned SUV that does it all.

It’s Easy to Save With a Pre-Owned SUV

Getting a pre-owned SUV is a smart decision. The SUV and crossover body are popular because of the versatility and performance they offer drivers who need a little more than a sedan can offer. When you opt for a fuel-efficient used SUV, it’s possible to save! From shaving potentially thousands off the price tag to saving each time you fill your tank, keeping a vehicle’s estimated fuel economy in mind is a great way to get the most from your vehicle.

We get that fuel efficiency is important, but remember that it is also important to balance it with your driving habits and your lifestyle to ensure you get an SUV that suits your needs, offers the technology you want, and fits within your fuel budget so that you continue saving mile after mile.