Sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) are generally classified as either small/compact, midsize or full-size. As the popularity of the smaller compact SUVs has increased, so has the character of available makes and models. For 2010, there are Eighteen SUV models classified as compact by Edmunds.com.
MPG estimates
Higher MPG using alternative fuels
There are four Two thousand ten compact SUVs using alternative fuels; two hybrid and two flex-fuel. The two hybrids are both rated at Thirty four mpg city/31 mpg highway. The flex-fuel models, which operate on either standard unleaded gasoline or E85 ethanol fuel, get Twenty mpg city/28 mpg highway and Nineteen mpg city/25 mpg highway respectively.The now roster of compact SUVs has a Broad compass of mileage ratings. For standard gasoline-powered engines, the two most fuel-efficient models get an EPA-estimated Twenty three mpg in the city and Twenty eight mpg on the highway. The worst mpg for the class is from one model rated at Fifteen mpg city/19 mpg highway.
Engine size
One reason for the relatively high mileage ratings for compact SUVs is their small engine size. All but three of the Two thousand ten base models come with a 4-cylinder engine. Not surprisingly, the three that come standard with a 6-cylinder engine also have the three lowest mileage ratings. Midsize and full-size SUVs have at least Six cylinders and usually 8.
Weight
Weight is another factor in fuel mileage. Gross weight for the compact base models range from just over 3,200 lbs. to nearly 4,300 lbs. As suspected, the heavier models have the worst mpg ratings, though one model weighing over 4,000 lbs.has mpg figures of Twenty two city/32 highway. Full-size SUVs weigh as much as 5,600 lbs.
Price
Compact SUVs are the most affordable of the three SUV classes, with Two thousand ten prices for base models starting at less than $20,000. One model has a suggested price of $16,995, while the most expensive in the class retails for $35,500---significantly more than the second most expensive model at $24,250.
