Avoid These Cars With the Worst Fuel Economy

Let's face it: Trips to the pump can become painfully frequent when you drive a vehicle that guzzles fuel. Fuel economy isn't just a number; it's an invisible expense that adds up fast.

According to a Consumer Reports video that recently spotlighted models with some of the worst mileage ratings in their categories (based on meticulous on-track testing), you should base your comparisons of models that are considered the best in their class.

"According to the extensive fuel economy test performed at the Consumer Reports test track, you might not expect massive three-row luxury SUVs to get Stellar gas mileage, but while the best-in-class can get up to 24 miles per gallon overall, the Cadillac Escalade is at the back of the pack, reaching only 16 miles per gallon―and that's on premium fuel."

Why Fuel Economy Matters

Choosing the wrong vehicle isn't only costly, it reflects poor planning and can quickly fill your budget with regret.

Heavy on the Price, Low on Miles: The High Cost of Inefficient Vehicles

Consumer Reports uses controlled, repeatable test-track conditions to determine real-world fuel usage, which ensures accuracy and reliability. Among the vehicles flagged, CR analysts found that the following were good examples of models that many consumers were unaware of:

1. Dodge Journey (V6) – A midsize SUV known for disappointing range given its size.
2. Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Diesel – A powerful but thirsty heavy-duty truck.
3. Mitsubishi Mirage (subcompact) – Supposed to be economical; in reality, it performs poorly at the pump.

In fact, while these cars may boast power or affordability, their efficiency levels make them poor value for money over time.

More Than Just MPG: Consumers Should Consider the Total Cost of Ownership

Fuel economy alone doesn't tell the whole story. Other factors matter. For example:

1. Fuel Type: Vehicles requiring premium or diesel can offset MPG gains with higher fuel costs.
2. Real vs. Rated MPG: Factory or EPA estimates often don't hold up under real-world conditions.
3. Reliability and Resale: Fuel efficiency can affect a vehicle's longevity and resale value.

In other words, bad MPG doesn't just drain fuel, it also drains your wallet.

Money Pit or Smart Investment? Here's How to Avoid Getting Burned

1. Do your homework: Compare not only the MSRP but also the fuel costs over the ownership period. Consumer Reports offers tools for this—understanding how test results translate to reality Consumer Reports.
2. Avoid the obvious gas hogs: Large SUVs, performance coupes, and hefty trucks usually deliver dismal miles per gallon.
3. Consider hybrids and EVs: Modern alternatives (like these hybrids listed recently) often surpass traditional vehicles in efficiency and cost savings.
4. Watch for real-world performance gaps: Government and third-party testing often reveal discrepancies between advertised and actual fuel efficiency.

Let Efficiency Drive Your Decision

Choosing a car should be about balancing what you drive with what you spend. Poor fuel economy doesn't just translate to more frequent gas stops ‒it means less money for everything else that matters.

Make the smart move: study the benchmarks, ask about real-world performance, and prioritize fuel-efficient options. Your wallet (and the planet) will thank you in the long run.

For a Larger List of Worst-in-Class Models Gleaned from Consumer Reports studies, here are some additional models to be wary of that you would be wise to steer clear of if fuel savings are a priority

WORST-IN-CLASS: LEAST FUEL-EFFICIENT MODELS

Overall Least Fuel Efficient (any class):

• Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Diesel – combined 14 mpg
• Nissan Armada – combined 14 mpg
• Ram 2500 Diesel – combined 14 mpg
• Toyota Land Cruiser – combined 14 mpg

Pickup Trucks:

• Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Diesel – 14 mpg
• Ram 2500 Diesel – 14 mpg

Midsize SUVs: Dodge Journey GT V6 – 16 mpg

Minivans: Dodge Grand Caravan – 17 mpg

Sporty Cars: Ford Mustang GT – 19 mpg

Luxury Midsized Cars: Maserati Ghibli S Q4 – 19 mpg

Wagons / Hatchbacks: Volvo V60 – 21 mpg

Small SUVs: Jeep Cherokee V6 – 21 mpg

Midsized Cars: Ford Fusion 2.0T – 22 mpg

Compact Cars: Kia Soul – 26 mpg

Subcompact Cars: Chevrolet Sonic – 28 mpg

For additional information on each of the recommended models (and those to avoid), consider a subscription to Consumer Reports. A small investment in their invaluable advice can save you thousands of dollars.

COMING UP NEXT: I Just Bought a 2015 Highlander off a Lot. However, After Not Driving for a Day or Two I Would Go Out to the Highlander and the Car Would Not Start. That Is When I Saw It…a Tracking Unit Zip Tied Around the Radiator Fan Wiring Harness

Timothy Boyer is an automotive reporter based in Cincinnati who currently researches and restores older vehicles, often incorporating engine modifications for improved performance. He also covers modern cars—including EVs—with a focus on DIY mechanics, tool use and selection, and other topics related to automotive repair. Follow Tim on Twitter (@TimBoyerWrites) and Facebook for daily updates and insights on new and used cars and trucks.

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