Cars to Steer Clear of for Poorest Fuel Efficiency

In the ever-evolving automotive landscape, fuel efficiency remains a crucial factor for consumers. However, some vehicles continue to fall short in this area, costing owners more at the pump.

The Dodge Journey V6, Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Diesel, and Mitsubishi Mirage (subcompact) are among the vehicles with poor fuel efficiency. They are listed among the worst fuel consumers in their classes due to high fuel consumption and excessive CO2 emissions compared to more efficient models, despite some being hybrids.

Large SUVs, performance coupes, and hefty trucks are notorious for delivering dismal miles per gallon. For instance, the Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Diesel has a combined fuel economy of 14 mpg, making it one of the least fuel-efficient pickup trucks. Similarly, the Dodge Grand Caravan boasts a combined fuel economy of 17 mpg, which is among the worst in the minivan category.

The Nissan Armada, with a combined fuel economy of 14 mpg, and the Ford Mustang GT, with a combined fuel economy of 19 mpg, are also on the list of least fuel-efficient vehicles in their respective categories – sporty cars and overall vehicle categories, respectively.

The Cadillac Escalade, a popular choice among luxury three-row SUVs, has one of the lowest fuel economies, with a rating of 16 miles per gallon. The Ram 2500 Diesel, another pickup truck, and the Maserati Ghibli S Q4, a luxury midsized car, both have combined fuel economies of 14 mpg and 19 mpg, respectively, placing them among the least fuel-efficient in their classes.

The Dodge Journey GT V6, Jeep Cherokee V6, and Volvo V60 also make the list, with combined fuel economies of 16 mpg, 21 mpg, and 21 mpg, respectively, in their midsize SUV, small SUV, and wagon/hatchback categories.

Choosing the wrong vehicle can be costly and reflect poor planning. Consumers should not only compare the MSRP but also the fuel costs over the ownership period. It's essential to balance what you drive with what you spend, as poor fuel economy means less money for other expenses.

While fuel economy alone doesn't tell the whole story – other factors like fuel type, real vs. rated MPG, and reliability and resale should be considered – it's clear that some vehicles are more costly to run than others. Consumers would do well to consider their fuel efficiency when making a car purchase.

In the face of modern alternatives like hybrids and EVs that often surpass traditional vehicles in efficiency and cost savings, it's worth considering these alternatives for a more economical driving experience. Government and third-party testing often reveal discrepancies between advertised and actual fuel efficiency, making it crucial to research and compare vehicles thoroughly before making a decision.