Not Just the Toyota Camry! Experts Test and Reveal the 'Top 6 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars,' Praised by Owners: Easy to Drive, Comfortable, Spacious, Affordable, and Low Maintenance

As hybrid technology continues to mature, SUVs—once considered gas-guzzlers—are now achieving outstanding fuel efficiency. Although hybrid models typically have a higher upfront cost than traditional gasoline versions, the daily fuel savings quickly make up for the price difference. Consumer Reports tested six hybrid SUVs that each save over $590 (approximately NT$19,000) annually in fuel costs, with some recouping the vehicle price difference in as little as one year through fuel savings alone.

Consumer Reports' Real-World Test: Top 6 Most Fuel-Efficient SUVs

1. Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 14.88 km/L Annual Fuel Savings (vs. Gasoline Version): ~$810

2. Lexus NX Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 16.16 km/L Annual Fuel Savings: ~$800

3. Lexus RX Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 14.45 km/L Annual Fuel Savings: ~$720

4. Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 15.73 km/L Annual Fuel Savings: ~$700

5. Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 14.45 km/L Annual Fuel Savings: ~$590

6. Kia Sportage Hybrid Average Fuel Economy: 15.31 km/L Annual Fuel Savings: ~$590

Most Fuel-Efficient Car #1: Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid As a flagship large SUV, the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid delivers exceptional fuel efficiency. According to Consumer Reports' real-world testing, the hybrid version achieves an average of 14.88 km/L—far surpassing the gasoline version's 9.35 km/L. This translates to annual fuel savings of approximately $810 (about NT$26,000). With a price difference of around $1,275 (NT$41,000) between hybrid and gasoline models, owners can recover the cost difference in about two years through fuel savings alone.

User reviews highlight: "Compared to other large SUVs, the driving comfort is much better"; "It looks like a giant RAV4—very stylish"; "The safety system is excellent, especially the blind-spot detection on both sides and the rear"; "Extremely comfortable on highways, perfect for long drives"; "The head-up display is very convenient when using Apple Maps, showing turn-by-turn navigation"; "The central touchscreen is large"; "It might be a bit large for Taiwan, but it's the perfect SUV size in the U.S."; "Love the adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist"; "The Max trim's engine is fantastic—torque and acceleration feel like a sports car, especially accelerating from 50 to 70+ mph on the highway"; "Smooth, quiet, and fuel-efficient"; "The third-row seats fold completely flat, creating massive cargo space."

Most Fuel-Efficient Car #2: Lexus NX Hybrid Coming in second is the Lexus NX Hybrid, the most fuel-efficient model in the Lexus lineup. Real-world testing shows it achieves 16.16 km/L—significantly better than the gasoline version's 10.63 km/L. On average, owners save about $800 (NT$26,000) annually on fuel. What makes it especially attractive is the small price gap: only about $900 (NT$29,000) more than the gasoline model. This means owners can nearly break even on fuel savings within just one year.

User feedback includes: "Lexus has the best after-sales service"; "I don't drive fast with kids, but the ride is stable and problem-free"; "Lexus stands for peace of mind and high reliability—when you don't want to gamble on car quality, it's the safest choice"; "The NX is undoubtedly a well-balanced, excellent car"; "If you buy Lexus, it has to be the hybrid"; "Acceleration at low to mid speeds is quick and responsive, like an EV. One tank of 95-octane gasoline can last over 1,000 km"; "Low maintenance costs"; "The body rigidity is excellent—I drove through mountain roads and felt the chassis and body move as one, with no separation"; "The electronic shifter is great—it adds a sense of tech and sophistication"; "The NX's exterior design is really appealing."

2026 Top 5 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars Ranking

According to the latest 'Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Guide' released by Taiwan's Bureau of Energy, the Honda FIT e:HEV takes the top spot with an average fuel economy of 26.9 km/L.

1. Honda FIT e:HEV – 26.9 km/L (Hybrid e:HEV) 2. Lexus LBX HYBRID – 26.4 km/L (Hybrid HEV) 3. Toyota CAMRY HYBRID – 25.3 km/L (Hybrid HEV) 4. Toyota COROLLA HYBRID – 25.3 km/L (Hybrid HEV) 5. Lexus UX300h HYBRID – 24.6 km/L (Hybrid HEV) 6. Suzuki SWIFT GLX – 24.5 km/L (Mild Hybrid)

Source: consumerreports Further Reading: 'Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Unboxing,' 'My NX350h Premium Purchase Journey and One-Month Review'

Editor: Chen Defu