Fuel Efficient Doesn't Mean "Small"

Yes, fuel prices remain relatively low. Despite rising numbers over the past several months, drivers still ended up paying the lowest prices at the pump over the Fourth of July weekend last month than in at least five years, AAA reports.

Still, plenty of car shoppers want more practical fuel economy than they have, so they are looking for good fuel efficiency when looking for a new or used car. However, many consumers think that fuel efficiency translates only to small cars. Well, that’s not necessarily the case these days.

Here’s a selective list of decent-sized vehicles that also are respectable fuel misers.

Hybrids
Motorists looking for fuel economy have benefitted from this era of hybrids. This category started with mostly small vehicles—think Toyota Prius—but as hybrids evolved, a fair number of medium- and large-sized hybrid vehicles have emerged. Here are four popular hybrids that offer amazing miles per gallon.

Kia Optima Hybrid
This stylish hybrid has all the creature-comfort bells and whistles and, depending on configurations, ranges in price from $20,000 to $30,000. Estimated mpg: 36/40.

Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Its sculpted design gives this hybrid a cool, sporty look. Sonata Hybrid sells for under $30,000. Estimated mpg: 36/40.

Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Camry already is the best-selling car in America. Adding a hybrid version makes the model even more popular. Base price is just under $29,000. Estimated mpg numbers are 39 and 43.

Ford Fusion Hybrid 41 and 44
The automotive press has said that Ford did an admirable job “transitioning” the Fusion from gas to electric power. It retains its sleek design and includes high-end cabin materials. The hybrid sells for around $30,000. Estimated mpg: 41/44.

Trucks
People are crazy for trucks, but fuel-efficient trucks? Isn’t that an oxymoron? Well, no, not these days.Don’t expect your truck to rival the miles-per-gallon totals of hybrid vehicles, of course, but the MPG numbers of these five truck models are respectable—for trucks, anyway.

Nissan Titan
Smart design and rugged construction make this truck a popular choice. Prices range rom $30,000 to just under $40,000. Estimated mpg: 13/18.

Toyota Tundra
Reviewers have said that the 2015 version of the Tundra is the most stylish, value-driven and capable Tundra yet. Base price is just under $30,000. Estimated mpg: 15/19.

**Nissan Frontier **
This affordable rig rates highly in several consumer surveys. Prices range from $18,000 to $24,000. Estimated mpg: 19/23.

Ford F-150
The F-150 is large yet surprisingly fuel-efficient. Prices range considerably, from $24,445 to $54,000. Estimated mpg: 19/26.

SUVs
Beyond hybrids and trucks, several SUVs these days also provide beneficial fuel efficiency. This is especially important for cost-conscious families who have opted for SUVs instead of minivans. Here are four that offer impressive MPGs.
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Toyota Highlander**
As Motor Matters reports, the Highlander offers a distinct “balance of style, comfort, performance and utility.” Starting price is just under $30,000. Estimated mpg: 27/28.

Honda CRV
Mid-sized and affordable, this SUV is one of the most reliable rigs on the road. Estimated starting price is $23,320. Estimated mpg: 27/34.
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Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid**
Here’s an all-wheel drive and hybrid combo. Plus it has all of the advanced tech you’re looking for. Starting price is $21,595. Estimated mpg: 26/34.

Lexus NX 300h (hybrid)
This hybrid SUV delivers elegant luxury, lots of room and great gas mileage. Starting price is $48,705. Estimated mpg: 31/35.

Shop for these models at CarSoup.com.