Most Fuel-Efficient Used Three-Row Midsized SUVs

When Size and Price Matter

Earlier we had discussed about finding a good used SUV that is fuel-efficient compared to its bigger brothers with a recommended selection of compact SUVs analysts at Consumer Reports identified as great buys for the cost-conscious car buyer.

But what if a compact SUV just doesn’t cut it because you need a little more room for passengers and cargo for a family trip? And, you need to find a model with reasonable fuel economy?

Related article: Used Hybrids and Hatchbacks with the Best Fuel Economy Say Consumer Reports Analysts

According to a recent Consumer Reports newsletter, you can have it all---price savings, plenty of room for most families, and fuel efficiency by choosing used three-row SUVs that have 5 years of depreciation behind them and are proven to still possess acceleration, braking, and fuel economy that is on a par with brand-new cars.

To help steer you toward the best choices available today, CR analysts put together a list of the most fuel-efficient 5-year-old midsized SUVs---including some luxury models--- that are both roomy enough for multiple passengers and fuel efficient.

Relates article: Consumer Reports Lists Their Choice of the Top 6 Most Reliable Reduced Price Used Midsized SUVs

For a more detailed breakdown of each vehicle’s features, please visit the Consumer Reports website. Note that while access to some information requires a CR membership, the potential savings make it negligible in comparison when looking for the latest information to aid your car buying research.

Most Fuel-Efficient Used 3-Row Midsized SUVs

1. 2018 Toyota Highlander
Price Range: $22,675 - $34,300
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 5/5
Rated owner satisfaction: 4/5

2. 2018 Acura MDX
Price Range: $26,075 - $31,500
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 4/5
Rated owner satisfaction: 2/5 (Only 56% of owners stated they would definitely purchase this same vehicle again)

3. 2018 BMW X5
Price Range: $27,650 - $49,000
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 3/5 (Body integrity and multiple fuel system problems reported by owners)
Rated owner satisfaction: 4/5

4. 2018 Kia Sorento
Price Range: $16,475 - $23,550
Owner Reported MPG: 23 mpg
Rated reliability: 3/5 (Body integrity and climate control-related system owner complaints)
Rated owner satisfaction: 2/5 (Only 60% of owners stated they would definitely purchase this same vehicle again)

5. 2018 Audi Q7
Price Range: $25,200 - $31,250
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 3/5 (Brake issues and powered features were common complaints amongst owners)
Rated owner satisfaction: 3/5 (Only 62% of owners stated they would definitely purchase this same vehicle again)

6. 2018 Honda Pilot
Price Range: $20,875 - $28,175
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 3/5 (Transmission and fuel system problems reported)
Rated owner satisfaction: 3/5 (Only 64% of owners stated they would definitely purchase this same vehicle again)

7. 2018 Hyundai Santa Fe
Price Range: $18,400 - $25,450
Owner Reported MPG: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 3/5 (Multiple brake-related and fuel systems problems reported)
Rated owner satisfaction: 3/5 (Only 62% of owners stated they would definitely purchase this same vehicle again)

8. 2018 Lexus RX L
Price Range: Not reported
Owner Reported Mpg: 22 mpg
Rated reliability: 5/5
Rated owner satisfaction: 4/5

And finally…

For more about smart shopping for used vehicles, here are three selected articles to help you find the right car:

• The Best Used Car (Almost) No One Knows About

• Toyota Rav4 Engine Warning for Used Car Shoppers

• Consumer Reports Under $25K Used Midsized Sedans with the Best Fuel Economy

COMING UP NEXT: Ford F-150 Transmission Leak Warning

Timothy Boyer is Torque News reporter based in Cincinnati. Experienced with early car restorations, he regularly restores older vehicles with engine modifications for improved performance. Follow Tim on Twitter at @TimBoyerWrites for daily new and used vehicle news.

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