10 of the Most Economical SUVs For Sale Today
11th Sep 2026
By Edward Cook
SUVs have become a firm favourite with UK drivers, offering the practicality, comfort and versatility needed for everyday life. For those who need a larger car the appeal of the SUV is clear to see, yet their more spacious dimensions no longer necessarily mean higher running costs.
The evolution of modern petrol and diesel engines, the introduction of smaller capacity engines to SUV models and the rapid improvements to hybrid and electric powertrains have made SUVs more efficient than ever.
Drivers looking for savings on running costs will consider the most suitable vehicles for them given their specific circumstances. This may include consideration of local fuel costs, mileage requirements, insurance costs, general driving locations/patterns, local restrictions on specific vehicle types and access to EV charging infrastructure at home, on the move or at work.
From there drivers can calculate whether a traditional internal combustion engine model will suit their wallet better, or whether longer term a mild hybrid (mHEV), a full hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or all-electric (BEV) vehicle is a better choice.
PHEV and BEV options are sometimes initially more expensive to buy, whilst working out as cheaper to run in the medium to long term. There are also grants for electric vehicles for UK drivers to take into account when it comes to up front purchase, so this is another important consideration.
In this in-depth guide, we’ve selected some of the very best options across a range of combustion engine and electric motor variations, to suit all driving preferences.
- Peugeot 3008
- Dacia Duster
- Renault Captur
- Kia EV3
- Vauxhall Frontera
- Hyundai TUCSON
- Citroën C5 Aircross
- Ford Kuga
- MG ZS
- Skoda Karoq
Peugeot 3008
The Peugeot 3008 combines family SUV practicality with some impressively economical powertrains.
As with many modern SUVs, it’s easy to get your hands on a 3008 with either a petrol or diesel engine, whilst there are now used and new full hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions available.
The regular petrol engine variations include a 1.2-litre with 129bhp, or a 1.6-litre petrol with either 162bhp or 178bhp, which can return between 35 and 48mpg. Diesel variants are the 1.5-litre with 129bhp, a 1.6-litre with 118bhp or a 2.0-litre with 147bhp or 174bhp - and they can return between 41 and 60mpg.
The 3008 is also available with a powerful full hybrid 136 e-DCS6 engine that provides an efficient driving experience, without the requirement of ever plugging in. The 3008 full hybrid delivers strong fuel efficiency, with consumption figures ranging from 44.6 to 52.5mpg.
Meanwhile, the petrol plug-in hybrid 3008 is the most economical and powerful, in either 221bhp or 295bhp versions - with 157mpg possible.
This array of frugal yet punchy engine choices within the 3008 range ensures that despite the bigger SUV proportions, 3008 running costs are not an expensive affair. Insurance can be reasonable too, with some 3008 variants starting from group 11.
Search New Peugeot 3008 Search Used Peugeot 3008Dacia Duster
The Dacia brand is synonymous with affordability and the Duster’s rugged design has made it highly popular amongst adventurous individuals and families. Newer models add even more practicality, refreshed looks and economical hybrid options, with the Duster proving that a robust SUV does not have to be thirsty.
Used 1.5-litre diesels can return around 60mpg, while the 1.0-litre petrol manages around 46mpg, underlining the Duster's reputation for affordable running costs. The Duster is also available as an LPG biofuel option, with the biofuel engine delivering 35mpg. LPG is usually a significantly cheaper fuel, often 40 to 50 percent less expensive than petrol.
Latest generation Duster Hybrid 155 models feature a 1.8-litre, four-cylinder unit that produces 157bhp and runs at up to 60.1mpg, offering low running costs, flexibility and power for both day-to-day and off-road driving.
The Dacia Duster mild hybrid 140 is a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder unit that provides 142bhp. Both economical and affordable, it can return around 55mpg, making it another viable option for those who want the practicality the Duster undoubtedly possesses.
Search New Dacia Duster Search Used Dacia DusterRenault Captur
The classy-looking Renault Captur SUV, with its practical features and French panache, has made a significant impact since its launch and has proved popular with conscientious families and drivers across the UK. Those ‘in the know’ have praised its comfortable dynamics and affordable running costs.
Drivers have a choice between a traditional petrol engine or a full hybrid (HEV), with improved fuel efficiency in the latest models.
With the TCe 115 you get a 1.0-litre engine, which produces 117bhp, accelerating from 0 to 62mph in 12.1 seconds and up to 49.6mpg combined. Meanwhile the E-Tech full hybrid 160 Auto has a 1.8-litre engine, with 162bhp, doing 0 to 62mph in 8.9 seconds and running at up to 64.2mpg combined.
A used 1.5-litre diesel Captur can be found at highly competitive pricing, offering similar performance and solid economy, with 58mpg possible. Finally, drivers can also consider the used 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Captur, with its 9.8kWh battery, which again offers comparable performance, offering an ultra-impressive 188mpg.
Running costs can be helped further by low insurance ratings, with some Captur models sitting in groups 7 to 8.
Search New Renault Captur Search Used Renault CapturKia EV3
Making the commitment to go fully electric isn’t always easy and economically it typically requires some up front investment and practical decision making around charging costs and logistics. Longer term though, joining the electric revolution can provide significant savings.
For those who are ready to make the switch the all-electric (BEV), the Kia EV3 is a competitively priced and practical compact SUV which is particularly efficient, whilst also being beautifully designed.
Whilst achieving up to 4.1 miles/kWh, the 81.4kWh Long Range version of the EV3 can travel up to 375 miles on a single charge.
For many, power, efficiency and speed are just as important as money and with the Kia EV3 you won’t be wasting time, or left wanting for punch. The EV3 produces 201bhp, good for a 0 to 62mph time of 7.5 seconds, with Kia’s advanced Vehicle Charging Management System also ensuring you can charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 31 minutes.
Search New Kia EV3 Search Used Kia EV3Vauxhall Frontera Electric
Another solid All-Electric (BEV) choice, the Vauxhall Frontera Electric also combines zero tailpipe emissions with the practicality expected from a family SUV. In terms of purchase price and running costs it compares well to rivals in its class.
A single electric motor paired with a 44kWh battery allows the Frontera Electric to offer a 187-mile range on a single charge, taking you up to 3.4 miles/kWh. The 54kWh Vauxhall Frontera Electric Extended Range version offers a range of 253 miles at 3.86 miles/kWh, making it suitable for both urban commuting and longer journeys.
The Frontera Electric produces 111bhp, giving a 0 to 62mph acceleration time of 12.1 seconds, which means you won’t be sprinting away from the local boy racers, but you will experience a comfortable, economical and relaxing drive.
You can also replenish battery charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 30 minutes, minimising downtime and ensuring your passengers are not kept waiting too long.
Search New Vauxhall Frontera Search Used Vauxhall FronteraHyundai TUCSON
The Hyundai TUCSON offers plenty of space and practicality without necessarily bringing the fuel bills associated with a traditional family SUV.
The 1.6-litre petrol version is the simplest option, returning up to 39.8mpg, while the full hybrid (HEV) improves this considerably, achieving up to 49.5mpg. Independent testing has also seen the full hybrid return 44.4mpg, demonstrating its strong proven efficiency in real-world conditions.
Drivers able to charge regularly and cost-efficiently, whilst also able to afford the steeper purchase price can instead consider the plug-in hybrid (PHEV). Combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with a 13.8kWh battery, it provides up to 43.5 miles of electric-only range.
Official fuel economy is stated at a notably high 282.5mpg, though achieving figures approaching this requires journey planning, regular charging and driving patterns that maximise electric running.
Hyundai have established themselves in the UK as a well-loved brand producing well-built and practical cars with a competitive five-year manufacturer warranty on new models, whilst used TUCSON models are proven to be affordable, popular and reliable.
Search New Hyundai TUCSON Search Used Hyundai TUCSONCitroën C5 Aircross
With its muscular and striking appearance, the C5 Aircross is a sought-after SUV in the futuristic-looking Citroën line-up. Offering spacious family-friendly dimensions and assertive design, the C5 Aircross features fine aerodynamics to improve efficiency, with a choice of economical petrol, diesel and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) powertrains.
The 1.2-litre PureTech petrol engine is offered with 129bhp, whilst there is also a 1.6-litre 178bhp variant too. These engines can respectively return 46 and 39mpg. A pair of 1.5-litre 129bhp and 2.0-litre 174bhp diesel engines are further options, with up to 58 and 47mpg respectively returned.
However, the most economical version of the C5 Aircross is the petrol plug-in hybrid choice, which offers over 200mpg, also delivering the most power at 221bhp.
Citroën’s evolving and modernised design language and technology have further enhanced their overall appeal in recent years. The C5 Aircross is a notable example of their updated head-turning style, also offering superb comfort, a premium-feeling interior and lower running costs.
Search New Citroën C5 Aircross Search Used Citroën C5 AircrossFord Kuga
The Kuga offers several routes to economical family SUV ownership, with petrol, older diesel, full hybrid (HEV) and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) versions available. This broad powertrain choice allows drivers to match their Kuga to their mileage and charging habits, and the used market for this solid SUV is particularly varied.
Older Ford Kuga models offer efficient conventional options, with the 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol capable of 45.6mpg and some 2.0-litre diesels achieving 54.3mpg, while the newer 2.5-litre Full Hybrid (HEV) can return around 50mpg combined.
Those with access to regular charging can maximise savings with the 243bhp plug-in hybrid. Its 14.4kWh battery provides up to 41 miles of electric-only driving, making shorter commutes and urban journeys possible without using petrol.
Official combined economy can reach 282.5mpg, although again achieving this relies heavily on regular charging and maximising electric running with smooth, practical driving habits.
Search New Ford Kuga Search Used Ford KugaMG ZS
The MG ZS is MG’s compact SUV, offering excellent value, being keenly priced, confidently styled and coming with a seven-year/80,000-mile warranty.
Affordable SUV motoring is central to the philosophy behind the MG ZS, with petrol models providing a straightforward option for budget-conscious drivers.
Powered by a 1.5-litre engine, delivering 108bhp, paired with a five-speed manual transmission, the petrol version of the ZS returns up to 42.7mpg. Used 1.0-litre versions are also available with manual or automatic gearboxes, offering the same power and fuel economy.
Newer full hybrid (HEV) versions add electrification to the formula, with MG officially rating the ZS Hybrid+ at 193bhp, with the model hitting 0 to 62mph in 8.7 seconds and producing a return of 55.4mpg. Independent testing has shown 48.7mpg in mixed real-world driving conditions, while confirming the same 193bhp and 8.7-second performance figures, highlighting the strong efficiency for this practical family SUV.
Search New MG ZS Search Used MG ZSSkoda Karoq
Skoda has long been associated with providing value-for-money to its customers and the brand has become increasingly associated with quality and performance in recent years.
The Czech outfit offers vehicles to suit all drivers’ needs at affordable prices, with their economical engine designs returning impressive fuel economy figures. The Karoq fits perfectly with this wider reputation and is a sensible SUV choice for drivers wanting traditional petrol or diesel power.
Current 1.5-litre petrol versions can achieve up to 45.6mpg, while the 2.0-litre diesel manages up to 47.9mpg, impressive figures for a practical mid-sized family SUV.
Modern Skoda models are well-regarded for the comfortable driving experience they offer and the Karoq is no different, yet it is also fairly agile and good fun to drive as well. The running costs are also reasonable, insurance starts at group 10 (out of 50) for the older, smaller 1.0-litre 115bhp petrol version, rising up to group 24 if you prefer one of the larger engine specifications.
Search Used Skoda KaroqFrequently asked questions
SUV stands for sports utility vehicle and is a segment of vehicles that are larger and more practical than the likes of hatchbacks and saloons. It's the most popular segment of car, with many manufacturers having at least one, if not multiple, options for you to choose from. You can get small, medium, and large SUVs with plenty of seating options, a higher ride height, and ample boot space, making them a go-to for families.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the most economical SUV to own in the UK. Petrol, diesel, hybrid and electric models suit different drivers, with annual mileage, fuel and charging costs, purchase price, insurance, servicing and driving habits all influencing which SUV offers the best overall value.
ULEZ compliance means a vehicle meets London’s required emissions standards, allowing it to be driven within the Ultra Low Emission Zone without having to pay the daily ULEZ charge. Most modern versions of the SUVs on our list should be ULEZ compliant, although exact used vehicles should always be checked by registration. Examples include the Kia EV3 and Vauxhall Frontera Electric, which are all-electric, plus modern petrol/hybrid versions of the Peugeot 3008, Dacia Duster, Renault Captur, Hyundai TUCSON, Citroën C5 Aircross, Ford Kuga and MG ZS.
Is an economical SUV right for you?
Whether you spend most of your time tackling motorway miles, navigating busy city roads or simply want to make fewer trips to the pumps or charging points, choosing an economical SUV can make a real difference.
Historically SUVs may have been regarded as expensive to buy and more costly to run, in particular with larger, older models, but that certainly is not the case now. In this fiercely competitive and highly popular category there has never been a greater choice available in terms of new and used models and flexible finance packages.
Ultimately, the most economical SUV is the one that best matches how, where and how often you drive and there are now more options than ever to make those miles cost less.
If you're interested in finding your next vehicle, our extensive range of new and used cars is sure to have something that appeals. Already got your eyes set on a specific model? Contact your nearest Evans Halshaw retailer and a friendly associate will be able to help you get behind the wheel to experience it yourself.
