If fuel efficiency matters to you, then you’re more than likely a budget-savvy car buyer. There are a few reviews out there to help you sort the latest models based on EPA ratings. Of course, you know the hybrids will likely get better gas mileage over traditional gas-powered vehicles. And if you have an SUV in mind, the 2020 and 2021 Kia Niro models should be on your short-list of considerations. In one automotive best-of list, it’s the 2020 Kia Niro that proves to be the most fuel-efficient hybrid SUV you can buy right now.

How the Kia Niro fits on this list

U.S. News put together a ranking for the fuel-efficiency-minded buyers out there. Based on the EPA’s estimates and the in-house evaluation scores, these vehicles will offer huge savings at the pump. And the roster also includes information about cost-savings should you select the hybrid variation of the same car. This allows car buyers to compare the best values among the available hybrids out there. These models range in vehicle segment and represent both 2020 and 2021 model years, as well, for a complete snapshot of fuel efficiency options. 

Hybrid and plug-in hybrid SUVs are becoming more and more popular. But only one of these crossovers made it on the U.S. News list. Both the 2020 Kia Niro and the 2020 Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid rank on this fuel efficiency list. The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid comes in at No. 10, with an annual fuel cost of $700 and an overall score of 7.4 out of 10. Its MPGe estimate comes in at 105 MPGe, and its traditional mpg rating of 46 MPG.

The 2020 Kia Niro Hybrid will save you roughly $3,000 annually over the average new ride with its $750 annual fuel cost. While it doesn’t offer the electric-only range like its plug-in counterpart, it will still achieve an impressive 49 MPG.

A roster of worthy competition

If you are open to sedans and compact cars, there are a few really great fuel-efficient models on this list beyond just the Kia Niro. The 2021 Honda Accord Hybrid earns high marks with its 48 mpg, and the 2020 Hyundai Ioniq achieves a 58 mpg, coming in at No. 1 on this best-of comparison. Honda is represented well as the 2021 Honda Clarity Plug-In Hybrid, and the 2021 Honda Insight also made appearances.

And of course, you can’t have a fuel economy competition without the 2021 Toyota Prius, a pioneer hybrid that earns 56 mpg these days. And it can also be helpful to visit fueleconomy.gov for additional official ratings to help narrow your search.

Performance meets efficiency in one adorable package – the Kia Niro

The Kia Niro might sometimes get overlooked. But this latest list demonstrates it deserves attention. You’ll enjoy plenty of standard features for a valuable buy, in addition to its ability to save money at the pump. Edmunds says the Kia Niro stands out from the likes of the Hyundai Ioniq and the Toyota Prius, a perfect SUV style all its own.

The 2020 Kia Niro enjoys a few upgrades, including a longer list of features for some of its five trims and an available 10.25-inch touchscreen. Every Kia Niro comes armed as a five-passenger crossover/hatchback with a four-cylinder hybrid-electric powertrain capable of harnessing 139 hp.

You can outfit your Kia Niro with the amenities you want with your trim selections of the LX, the LXS, the Touring, the Touring Special Edition, and the EX Premium. From the base model to the high-end version with heated, leather seats, you can still expect to pay between $24,000 to $33,000.

If fuel economy matters to you, and you need something a little more substantive than a sedan or compact car, take another look at the Kia Niro. It’s a great mix of performance, value, and fuel efficiency, in a uniquely styled little SUV.