How Much Difference in Fuel Consumption Between SUVs and Sedans?
3 Answers
There is a difference of about 1.5 liters per 100 kilometers in fuel consumption. Generally, sedans are more fuel-efficient than SUVs. Here is some information about the fuel consumption of sedans and SUVs: 1. Influencing factors: However, if one is a regular sedan and the other is a hybrid SUV, the situation may be reversed, with the SUV being more fuel-efficient than the sedan. Another factor is that, under the same conditions of displacement and pure fuel engine or hybrid, the sedan is inevitably more fuel-efficient. 2. Comfort: Generally, the weight of a family sedan ranges from 1.1 to 1.4 tons; SUVs are heavier, usually between 1.5 and 1.8 tons, which means SUVs consume more fuel relatively. When buying a car, you should consider the main purpose and the comfort of your family. SUVs generally have larger rear seats and more spacious trunks, with higher seating positions that provide better visibility and are less likely to cause motion sickness.
I've really noticed the difference in fuel consumption after driving several cars. SUVs usually consume much more fuel than sedans, mainly because SUVs are heavier and have greater air resistance. For example, the compact SUV I drove had a combined fuel consumption of around 11L to 13L per 100km, while a sedan in the same class only used 8L to 10L—a full 2-3L difference. This is especially noticeable during daily commutes in congested urban areas, where an SUV's fuel consumption can skyrocket to over 15L in traffic, compared to around 12L for a sedan. Not only does this cost more money—adding up to thousands more in fuel expenses over a year or two—but it also affects the driving experience. SUVs accelerate more slowly, and you can practically watch the fuel gauge drop. On highways, SUVs have more wind noise and still consume significantly more fuel. I recommend regularly checking tire pressure and keeping up with maintenance to save a bit on fuel, but in the long run, if you're looking for economy, a sedan is the more reliable choice.
As a car enthusiast, I've studied various vehicle data, and the fuel consumption difference between SUVs and sedans typically ranges from 1.5 to 4 liters per 100 kilometers. The reason is simple: SUVs weigh 200-500 kg more – my midsize SUV has a curb weight approaching 2 tons, plus significantly higher drag coefficient. Sedans, like common family three-box cars, are over 200 kg lighter with better aerodynamics, naturally achieving lower fuel consumption. Engine choice also matters greatly – SUVs often use larger displacement engines to move their bulk, while sedans can employ smaller turbocharged engines with stronger fuel efficiency advantages. For example, the Honda CR-V averages about 9.5L/100km versus the Accord's 7.5L/100km, a minimum 2-liter difference. Long-term, SUV fuel consumption fluctuates more dramatically, especially burning extra fuel during hill climbs. Hybrid SUVs can narrow this gap, but overall sedans still hold the advantage. My advice: don't just consider appearance when choosing – calculate daily fuel costs first, because hassle-free operation is what truly matters.
