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CR’s 7 Used 2-Row SUVs With The Best Fuel Economy - Subaru Outback Ranks 1st

With new model prices rising, what are the most fuel-efficient used 2-Row SUVs? A new report says the 2018 Subaru Outback is the top pick for 5-year-old models. Check out the complete list here before you buy.

According to an updated Consumer Reports (by subscription) ranking, with the new 2023 and 2024 model vehicle pricing rising, there are fuel-efficient used 2-Row SUVs you should put on your list. CR says the 2018 Subaru Outback ranks the best for shoppers this fall.

The 2018 Subaru Outback is at the top in fuel mileage of the seven best models that are five years old. CR says it offers all-weather traction, performs well in road tests, has better than average reliability, gets top safety scores, and is fuel-efficient.

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CR’s top seven-best 5-year-old models ranked in order of their overall fuel economy during their CR tests when new.

Consumer Reports says the Subaru Outback is number one, followed by the Hyundai Santa Fe Sport, Ford Edge, Nissan Murano, Kia Sorento, Lexus RX, and BMW X5. They are the best 2018 model year 2-Row SUVs with the best fuel mileage.

Why should the Subaru Outback be on your shopping list this fall?

Consumer Reports says, “Subaru’s popular Outback gained some welcome refinement with its 2015 redesign. Roomy and spacious, the interior is nicely finished, and the touch-screen infotainment system is a major improvement. The Outback rides very comfortably, and handling is responsive and secure.”

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“Acceleration from the standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder and the continuously variable transmission is adequate, and we measured 24 mpg overall, beating most midsized SUVs. Even the performance-oriented 3.6R version got a good 22 mpg overall.” Consumer Reports says the Outback gets an owner-reported 26 mpg.

What is the 2018 Outback fuel mileage?

The 2018 Outback with the 2.5-liter engine gets an EPA-estimated 25/32 city/highway and 28 combined mpg with the automatic transmission. The Outback 3.6R gets an estimated 20/27 city/highway and 22 combined mpg. 

What are the Outback’s safety scores?

The 2018 Subaru Outback earned the top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS.

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What sets the Outback apart from the other six 5-year-old 2-Row SUVs?

The 2018 Outback is an SUV that drives and rides like a car and appeals to a broader audience in the U.S. than ever before. The 2-Row SUV has excellent cargo capacity a higher ground clearance (8.7 inches), and comes standard with Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for all-weather performance.

The 2018 Outback offered more luxury than ever before. The 2018 Touring model gives consumers a rich Java Brown perforated leather-trimmed upholstery and exclusive wood-grain interior finish. The 2018 Outback also has safety features when ordered with Subaru’s Eyesight driver-assist system.

If the 2023 Subaru Outback is not in your budget, check out the 2018 model year. Consumer Reports says it’s the best of the seven top picks and offers the best fuel economy among 2-Row SUVs they recommend.

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Denis Flierl brings over thirty years of combined auto industry and automotive journalism experience to Torque News readers. He is an accredited Rocky Mountain Automotive Press (RMAP) member. The last twelve years have been spent with Torque News, covering Subaru vehicles and the latest news. Check back daily for his expert Subaru analysis. You'll find the latest stories on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

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