How Much Higher is the Fuel Consumption of SUVs Compared to Sedans?
2 Answers
For vehicles of the same class, with the same displacement, and even the same transmission, SUVs generally consume 1 to 2 liters more fuel per 100 kilometers than sedans. Here are the reasons for the increased fuel consumption: Difference in Weight: SUVs have taller and larger body structures, requiring more high-strength steel. The higher center of gravity also reduces stability compared to sedans, necessitating reinforcement of the A, B, and C pillars. The increased use of steel naturally leads to higher weight. For example, in the A-segment, sedans typically weigh between 1.3 to 1.4 tons, while SUVs range from 1.5 to 1.7 tons. With the same engine displacement, the power-to-weight ratio decreases by approximately 20 horsepower per ton, resulting in about 2 liters more fuel consumption at the same speed. Difference in Aerodynamic Drag: During the design phase, the drag coefficient is carefully considered to minimize wind resistance during driving. However, SUVs, being taller than sedans, have a larger frontal area, leading to higher resistance. At the same speed, greater resistance translates to higher fuel consumption, resulting in a disparity of 1 to 2 liters.
After driving for 20 years, I've noticed that SUVs in the same class generally consume 25%-50% more fuel than sedans. For example, while a 2.0L compact sedan might use 8 liters per 100 kilometers, a SUV with the same displacement could consume 10-12 liters. The main reasons are that SUVs are overweight, being 200-400 kilograms heavier than sedans—equivalent to carrying three extra passengers all the time—and their taller bodies increase the drag coefficient by 20%. However, new technologies can improve this; my hybrid SUV only uses 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers, similar to an old Corolla. If you frequently drive on highways, wind resistance has a greater impact, while in the city, the auto start-stop feature has a minor effect on fuel consumption.
