Gas prices are higher than they have been in more than a decade. The last time this happened, many consumers ran out and bought small hybrid hatchbacks to combat the challenge of elevated fuel costs, but that might not work for you. If you still need to drive an SUV but want a fuel-efficient vehicle, you have some options.

These SUVs allow you to drive smart without compromise

Too often, we compromise what we want without considering that an alternative might be available to us. Thankfully, Consumer Reports offers a list of SUVs that offer the best value right now. You can enjoy the performance, reliability, satisfaction, and versatility of the SUV you drive while adding a decent efficiency level to the mix.

With the homework done for you, it’s easier to find the most highly-recommended SUV to drive. CR considered the best value based on pricing for the past month, their recommendations, and the best fuel mileage to give you these SUVs.

The 2022 Lexus RX is the right midsize luxury SUV

The Lexus RX scored an 83 and ranks fourth among luxury SUVs. This midsize vehicle is a familiar face that brings the cargo space needed for a family and the fuel mileage desired. The price range for this Lexus is $45,570-$57,660, and the average fuel mileage reaches 24 city/33 hwy mpg. The RX 450h is an option if you want a hybrid alternative that aids your fuel savings.

Do you need a three-row SUV? Check out the 2022 Toyota Highlander

Reliability and versatility are part of the core attributes you’ll see in the Toyota Highlander. This SUV scored an 87 and ranked second among midsize SUVs in the mainstream market. The price range for the Highlander is $35,405-$51,160, and the average fuel mileage is 27 city/41 hwy mpg. A hybrid version in the XLE trim offers better fuel mileage during your drive.

The 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E is an interesting option

If you select the Ford Mustang Mach- E, you’ll never worry about the fuel prices. This electric vehicle ranks third among luxury compact SUVs. You might not think it belongs in this class, but it scored an 82 to be a highly-ranked model among the small luxury vehicles. The price range for the Mach-E is $43,895-$61,995, and you won’t need to worry about the fuel mileage.

Toyota gives you an easy choice with the compact 2022 RAV4 SUV

Everywhere we look, the Toyota RAV4 seems to be on the list, especially when discussing the positive qualities of a vehicle. This compact SUV earned a 68 and ranked the ninth-best compact SUV in the market. The price range is $26,525-$37,575, and the average fuel mileage is 32 city/41 hwy mpg. You can enjoy the improved fuel efficiency of the RAV4 Hybrid XLE if you want to maximize your savings.

Another regular on these lists is the 2022 Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V reaches impressive levels of packaging and quality, as it has done for many years. This is one of the most highly-rated compact crossover SUVs in the market, earning a score of 82, making it fourth in this class. The price range for the CR-V is $26,400-$37,400, and it offers an average fuel mileage of 32 city/37 hwy mpg. If you want to improve the fuel economy, check out the CR-V Hybrid EX version.

Which of these SUVs should you drive?

With five possibilities, you’ll need to understand what your driving requirements are before you make the selection of which SUV to drive. The Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 are incredibly close, competing in the same class, but the other three are different in many ways. There’s a lot to consider, but now you know which SUVs Consumer Reports recommends, which is a good place to begin.