Unveiling the Real-World MPG Victors: A Deep Dive into Hybrids and EVs That Outperform Their EPA Estimates

“B.C. supports EV adoption from purchase through repair” by BC Gov Photos is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

In the automotive world, official EPA mileage ratings serve as crucial benchmarks, guiding consumers toward vehicles that promise efficiency and lower running costs. Yet, like any standardized test, these figures don’t always tell the full story of real-world performance. Driving conditions, routes, and even driver habits can significantly influence how a vehicle actually performs once it leaves the controlled environment of a testing lab.

To bridge this gap between official estimates and on-road reality, the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada annually hosts EcoRun. This remarkable event gathers about 20 of the country’s top auto journalists, placing them in an array of efficient vehicles for three days. The goal is simple: to see who can achieve the best efficiency in a friendly but fierce competition. This year, EcoRun 2023 exclusively featured electrified vehicles, ranging from conventional hybrids to plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and full electric vehicles (EVs), reflecting the evolving market.

What makes EcoRun particularly compelling is its rigorous methodology. With 18 drivers rotating through 18 vehicles across 10 distinct legs, the event effectively cancels out individual driver variability. Every vehicle navigates the same routes on the same days, under identical conditions, creating an incredibly level playing field. This meticulous approach offers what we consider the best real-world comparison of how some of the most efficient vehicles on the market stack up against their official estimates. And what we found was truly eye-opening: many vehicles didn’t just meet their EPA targets; they absolutely blew past them. Here are the top performers that significantly exceeded their official ratings, ranked by the impressive percentage they beat their estimates.

“Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 2.0 4xe Plug-in-Hybrid Rubicon (IV, Facelift) – f 30032025” by © M 93 is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

1. **Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4xe**Among the many surprises of EcoRun 2023, the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited 4xe stands out as perhaps the most unexpected overachiever. This iconic vehicle, renowned more for its rugged off-road capability than its fuel-sipping prowess, defies conventional wisdom with a shape often described as a brick, coupled with a suspension lift and knobby all-terrain tires. These characteristics typically spell disaster for aerodynamic efficiency and fuel economy.

Yet, the Wrangler 4xe delivered a staggering performance, beating its EPA combined cycle rating by an incredible 41 percent. The official window sticker suggests it should manage only 20 miles per gallon (11.8 L/100 km). However, in the demanding real-world conditions of this test, the 4xe impressively achieved 28.2 mpg (8.3 L/100 km), demonstrating a remarkable ability to extract far more efficiency than expected.

This dramatic improvement isn’t achieved through complex aerodynamic trickery or groundbreaking hybrid configurations. Instead, the Wrangler 4xe’s success lies in a more fundamental principle: the inherent efficiency of electric motors compared to a traditional gas engine. By leveraging its electric powertrain to its fullest, it transforms what would otherwise be a “miserable” fuel economy score into something genuinely “acceptable” for a vehicle of its size and design. While it still registered as the second-worst fuel economy score overall in the test, just behind the Range Rover PHEV, the sheer magnitude of its overperformance—using half the expected amount of fuel—is an important and truly impressive accomplishment for such a seriously thirsty vehicle.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Jeep Wrangler
Caption: Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, Sahara edition
Manufacturer: Jeep
Class: Compact SUV
Production: 1986–present
Predecessor: Jeep CJ
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Related: AIL Storm
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles
Summary: The Jeep Wrangler is a series of compact and mid-size four-wheel drive off-road SUVs manufactured by Jeep since 1986, and currently in its fourth generation. The Wrangler JL, the most recent generation, was unveiled in late 2017 and is produced at Jeep’s Toledo Complex. The Wrangler is a direct progression from the World War II Jeep, through the CJ (Civilian Jeeps) produced by Willys, Kaiser-Jeep, and American Motors Corporation (AMC) from the mid-1940s through the 1980s. Although neither AMC nor Chrysler (after it purchased AMC in 1987) have claimed that the Wrangler was a direct descendant of the original military model — both the CJ Jeeps and the conceptually consistent Wrangler, with their solid axles and open top, have been called the Jeep model as central to Jeep’s brand identity as the rear-engine 911 is to Porsche. Similar to the Willys MB and the CJ Jeeps before it, all Wrangler models continue to use a separate body and frame, rigid live axles both front and rear, a tapering nose design with flared fenders, a fold-flat windshield and can be driven without doors. Also, with few exceptions, they have part-time four-wheel drive systems, with the choice of high and low gearing, and standard open bodies with removable hard or soft tops. However, the Wrangler series was specifically redesigned to be safer and more comfortable on-road, to attract more daily drivers, by upgrading its suspension, drivetrain, and interior, compared to the CJ line. The suspension on all Wranglers included trackbars and anti-roll bars, and, from the 1997 TJ onwards, front and rear coil springs instead of the previous leaf springs. From 2004 on, the Wrangler has been complemented with long-wheelbase versions, called Wrangler Unlimited. 2004-2006 models were longer versions with 2 doors. In 2004 only automatic transmission-equipped “Unlimited” versions were sold. In 2005 both an automatic and manual 6-speed (NSG-370) were offered. Since 2007, the long-wheelbase Wranglers were four-door models, offering over 20 in (508 mm) more room. By mid-2017 the four-door models represented three-quarters of all new Wranglers on the market.

Get more information about: Jeep Wrangler

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Brand: Jeep Model: Wrangler Unlimited 4xe
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

2. **Kia Niro EV**The Kia Niro EV emerged as another stellar performer in the EcoRun test, proving that efficiency doesn’t always require a flashy, futuristic facade. This unassuming electric vehicle, part of Kia’s redesigned Niro lineup which uniquely offers EV, PHEV, and hybrid models, managed to achieve the highest overall efficiency score on the test, averaging an astounding 156 MPGe (4.6 mi/kWh, 13.5 kWh/100 km).

Beyond its top-tier average efficiency, the Niro EV also secured the second-best position for beating its EPA estimates. It outperformed its official 113 MPGe (3.4 mi/kWh, 18.3 kWh/100 km) window sticker figure by an impressive 38 percent. This substantial improvement in real-world driving conditions has significant implications for its practical range.

The test results strongly suggest that the Kia Niro EV is capable of managing closer to 350 miles on a single charge, rather than the 253 miles suggested by the EPA. This considerable difference of nearly 100 miles is a game-changer for potential owners, offering vastly extended usability and mitigating range anxiety. The Niro EV’s ability to so dramatically exceed its official figures underscores its exceptional engineering and efficiency, making it a highly compelling option in the electric vehicle market, especially for those seeking maximum range and minimal energy consumption.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Kia Niro
Caption: Kia Niro PHEV (SG2)
Manufacturer: Kia
Production: 2016–present
ModelYears: 2017–present
Class: Subcompact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Sp: us
Categories: 2010s cars, All articles covered by WikiProject Wikify, All articles with dead external links, All pages needing cleanup, Articles containing Korean-language text
Summary: The Kia Niro (Korean: 기아 니로) is a subcompact crossover SUV (B-segment) manufactured by Kia since 2016. It is an electrification-focused vehicle, offering three versions: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery electric variants.

Get more information about: Kia Niro

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Kia Model: Niro EV
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

3. **Genesis Electrified GV70**The Genesis Electrified GV70 makes a compelling case that superior efficiency isn’t solely a product of wind tunnel optimization. While automakers relentlessly pursue aerodynamic sleekness, the GV70 demonstrates that other factors can contribute significantly to real-world performance, even with a design that might seem less than ideal on paper. This electric luxury SUV is notably wider, taller, and boasts more ground clearance than some of its rivals, characteristics that typically increase total aerodynamic drag.

Despite these seemingly detrimental physical attributes, the Electrified GV70 delivered an exceptional performance in EcoRun. It managed to beat the Mercedes-Benz EQE and nearly matched the Lexus RZ, achieving a robust 120 MPGe (3.5 mi/kWh, 17.8 kWh/100 km). This figure represents an outstanding 31 percent improvement over its official EPA rating of 91 MPGe (2.7 mi/kWh, 23 kWh/100 km), a testament to its underlying electric powertrain and energy management systems.

The GV70’s success highlights that a holistic approach to efficiency, incorporating advanced motor technology, intelligent power distribution, and effective regenerative braking, can overcome conventional aerodynamic challenges. Its ability to achieve such a significant real-world gain over its estimates makes it a surprisingly strong contender in the premium EV segment, offering both luxury and an unexpected level of efficiency that defies its physical stature.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Genesis GV70
ModelCode: JK1
Caption: 2021 Genesis GV70 Sport
Manufacturer: Genesis Motor
Production: 2020–present
ModelYears: 2022–present
Assembly: Ulsan
Designer: Ki-Euk Kim (exterior)
Class: Compact executive car,crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai-Kia M platforms
Engine: unbulleted list
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Powerout: unbulleted list
Transmission: Automatic transmission
Battery: Lithium-ion battery
Wheelbase: 2875 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4715 mm
Width: 1910 mm
Height: 1630 mm
Weight: unbulleted list
Charging: Vehicle-to-grid
Sp: uk
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Korean-language sources (ko), Cars introduced in 2020
Summary: The Genesis GV70 (Korean: 제네시스 GV70) is a compact luxury D-segment crossover SUV manufactured by Korean luxury automaker Genesis, a luxury vehicle division of Hyundai. Internally codenamed JK1, it is the second SUV model from the brand after the mid-size GV80.

Get more information about: Genesis GV70

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Genesis Model: Electrified GV70
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

4. **Mercedes-Benz EQE 500 4Matic**The Mercedes-EQ EQE 500 4Matic sedan presents a fascinating study in design and efficiency. It is a large and undeniably bulky vehicle, epitomizing luxury within its well-appointed interior. However, its exterior shape is often described as “strangely shaped,” a design choice that, while perhaps polarizing aesthetically, clearly plays a pivotal role in its impressive real-world efficiency.

Despite its substantial size, the EQE’s distinctive and somewhat unconventional aerodynamic profile proved highly effective in cutting through the air during the EcoRun test. This design, which may not be conventionally sleek, enabled it to deliver an exceptional 119 MPGe (3.5 mi/kWh, 17.8 kWh/100 km). This performance stands in stark contrast to its EPA estimate of 94 MPGe (2.8 mi/kWh, 22.2 kWh/100 km), marking a significant 26 percent improvement.

This outstanding efficiency figure allowed the EQE 500 4Matic to just edge out the impressive Hyundai Ioniq models in terms of exceeding its estimates. It demonstrates that Mercedes-Benz’s engineering team has found a way to marry opulent luxury and considerable bulk with remarkable aerodynamic efficiency. The EQE’s ability to so dramatically surpass its EPA rating highlights that innovative, albeit unconventional, design choices can yield substantial real-world benefits, confirming that there’s more than one path to achieving superior electric vehicle performance.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Mercedes-Benz EQE
Manufacturer: Mercedes-Benz Group
ModelCode: V295
Production: 2022–present
ModelYears: 2023–present
Assembly: ubl
Designer: Bastian Baudy
Class: Executive car
BodyStyle: sedan (car)
Layout: ubl
Platform: Mercedes-Benz EVA
Related: ubl
Motor: Synchronous motor#Permanent-magnet
Powerout: ubl
Battery: kilowatt hour
Range: convert
Charging: 170 kW DC, 11 kW AC (or 22 kW AC in option)
Wheelbase: 3120 mm
Abbr: on
Length: convert
Width: 1960 mm
Height: convert
Weight: convert
Categories: Articles with short description, Cars introduced in 2021, Executive cars, Luxury vehicles, Mercedes-Benz vehicles
Summary: The Mercedes-Benz EQE (V295) is a battery electric executive car produced by German automobile manufacturer Mercedes-Benz Group. It is part of the EQ family, and was presented at the Munich Motor Show 2021. The only model available at launch was the rear-motor EQE 350. Its engine has a peak power of 215 kW (292 PS), and it has a range of up to 660 km (410 mi). More variants were said to follow later, including a 4Matic AWD dual-motor setup with a peak engine power output of up to 500 kW (680 PS). The U.S. will get one version simply called the Mercedes AMG EQE which is the same as the 460 kW (625 PS; 617 hp) EQE 53 4matic+ seen in Europe. In February 2022, the high-performance Mercedes-AMG EQE 43 & 53 4MATIC+ versions were unveiled. Changes include power bumps of up to 505 kW (687 PS; 678 hp), 1,000 N⋅m (738 lb⋅ft) of torque, upgraded internals and AMG touches inside and out. In March 2022, the EQE 350 4MATIC and EQE 500 4MATIC were unveiled. In July 2022, the cheaper EQE 300 version was unveiled.

Get more information about: Mercedes-Benz EQE

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Mercedes-Benz Model: EQE 500 4Matic
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

“Hyundai Ioniq 6 (CE) Washington DC Metro Area, USA” by OWS Photography is licensed under CC BY 4.0

5. **Hyundai Ioniq 6**The Hyundai Ioniq 6 is a prime example of how dedicated aerodynamic design can translate directly into exceptional real-world efficiency. Its streamlined shape is immediately apparent, and its benefits are most noticeable at highway speeds. During the EcoRun test, drivers reported almost no wind noise compared to other EVs, a clear indicator of its superb aerodynamic slipperiness and its ability to effortlessly cleave through the air.

EcoRun also provided some intriguing insights into the Ioniq 6’s performance. Two Ioniq 6 sedans were tested, revealing a variance where one consistently returned higher efficiency—ranging from 10 to 35 percent better on the same legs. This highlighted the significant impact an individual driver can have on efficiency, while also suggesting subtle differences between individual vehicles, possibly related to details like paint finish (shiny versus matte gray). Such observations underline the complexity of real-world testing versus static ratings.

On average, the two Ioniqs collectively achieved an impressive 129 MPGe (3.8 mi/kWh, 16.3 kWh/100 km), which is a substantial 25 percent better than the official EPA estimate of 103 MPGe (3.1 mi/kWh, 20.0 kWh/100 km). Hyundai also equips the Ioniq 6 with clever features to further boost efficiency, such as an Eco drive mode that reduces maximum power output and the option to power down the front axle on dual-motor trims, ensuring that drivers have tools to maximize their mileage.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Hyundai Ioniq 6
ModelCode: CE
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: July 2022 – present
ModelYears: 2023–present (North America)
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: SangYup Lee
Class: Mid-size car
BodyStyle: fastback,Sedan (automobile)
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai E-GMP
Related: unbulleted list
Motor: Permanent magnet synchronous motor
Battery: Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxides
ElectricRange: Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure
Charging: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2950 mm
Abbr: on
Length: 4855 mm
Width: 1880 mm
Height: 1495 mm
Weight: convert
Categories: All articles lacking reliable references, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles lacking reliable references from December 2024, Articles with short description, CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id)
Summary: The Hyundai Ioniq 6 (Korean: 현대 아이오닉 6) is a battery electric mid-size fastback sedan produced by Hyundai Motor Company. It is the second vehicle marketed under the electric car-focused Ioniq sub-brand after the Ioniq 5, and the fourth model developed on the Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). The vehicle was first sold in South Korea in late 2022, with deliveries in the United States beginning in March 2023.

Get more information about: Hyundai Ioniq 6

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Ioniq 6
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

“Hyundai IONIQ 5 N Line NE PE Ecotronic Gray Pearl (6)” by Damian B Oh is licensed under CC BY 4.0

6. **Hyundai Ioniq 5**Following in the impressive footsteps of its sleeker sibling, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 also showcased a remarkable ability to exceed its EPA ratings during the EcoRun event. While the Ioniq 5 features a boxier and taller design compared to the Ioniq 6, its real-world performance surprisingly mirrored the Ioniq 6’s percentage overperformance, despite the less aerodynamic profile.

The EPA’s combined cycle estimate for the Ioniq 5 is 98 MPGe (2.9 mi/kWh, 21.4 kWh/100 km). However, in the rigorous testing conditions of EcoRun, the Ioniq 5 averaged an outstanding 122 MPGe (3.6 mi/kWh, 17.3 kWh/100 km). This translates to an impressive 25 percent improvement over its rating, directly matching the percentage gains seen with the Ioniq 6. Such consistency across Hyundai’s EV lineup strongly suggests that the manufacturer might be deliberately conservative in its official range and efficiency ratings.

Like the Ioniq 6, the Ioniq 5 benefits from smart efficiency tricks, including its Eco drive mode, which helps drivers extract more miles from each charge. The ability of this boxier EV to perform on par with its more streamlined counterpart in exceeding EPA figures speaks volumes about the robust engineering and intelligent power management systems underpinning Hyundai’s electric vehicles. It offers compelling evidence that real-world performance can often pleasantly surprise, especially for those who adopt efficient driving habits.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Sp: uk
Name: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
ModelCode: NE
Production: March 2021 – present
ModelYears: 2022–present (North America)
Assembly: Unbulleted list
Designer: Lee Ji-hyeon
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Unbulleted list
Platform: Hyundai E-GMP
Related: Unbulleted list
Motor: permanent magnet synchronous motor
Battery: SK On
ElectricRange: cvt
Charging: ubl
Wheelbase: cvt
Length: Unbulleted list
Width: Unbulleted list
Height: Unbulleted list
Weight: Unbulleted list
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, Articles containing Korean-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id), CS1 Korean-language sources (ko)
Summary: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 (Korean: 현대 아이오닉 5) is a battery electric compact crossover SUV produced by Hyundai since 2021. It is the first product to be marketed under the Ioniq sub-brand, and the first model developed on the Hyundai Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).

Get more information about: Hyundai Ioniq 5

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Ioniq 5
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

Mazda CX-90 PHEV — File:2024 Mazda CX-90 Mild Hybrid Inline 6 Turbo GS-L AWD in Deep Crystal Blue Mica, Front Left, 09-10-2023.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

7. **Mazda CX-90**Mazda’s entry into the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) segment, the three-row CX-90, made a solid and commendable showing in the EcoRun road trip test. As Mazda’s first plug-in hybrid, it delivered an impressive real-world performance, significantly surpassing its official EPA combined rating. The CX-90 achieved 30 mpg (7.8 L/100 km) during the test, which is a full 5 miles per gallon better than its 25 mpg (9.4 L/100 km) EPA estimate.

This performance represents a notable 20 percent increase over its expected efficiency, demonstrating that Mazda’s first foray into the PHEV space is a strong one, capable of delivering tangible fuel savings. Beyond its impressive fuel economy, the CX-90 offered a unique feature that set it apart from every other vehicle in the test: it provided separate, dedicated gauges to display instantaneous gas consumption and electric power usage. Furthermore, the same dial simultaneously showed the average consumption for each power source.

This innovative instrumentation proved to be incredibly valuable for drivers. It made it significantly easier to understand which power source was predominantly in use at any given moment, offering real-time feedback that facilitated more efficient driving. The author of the EcoRun report explicitly credited this gauge with helping achieve a remarkable 39-mile-per-gallon (6.0 L/100 km) stint in the CX-90, showcasing how intelligent driver aids can empower motorists to maximize their vehicle’s efficiency. The CX-90 truly stands out for both its performance and its driver-centric approach to fuel management.

Having explored the top tier of vehicles that dramatically outperformed their EPA fuel economy ratings, our EcoRun journey continues with another eight impressive contenders. These vehicles, from luxury SUVs to compact sedans, further underscore the fascinating discrepancies between laboratory figures and on-road realities, revealing unexpected efficiencies and innovative engineering at play. Let’s dive into the next wave of challengers that pushed past their official estimates, ranked by their impressive percentage improvements.

The Land Rover Range Rover — File:2022 Land Rover Range Rover SE P440e AWD Automatic 3.0 Front.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

8. **Range Rover P440e**The Range Rover P440e entered the EcoRun test as arguably the most formidable presence, both in terms of its sheer bulk and its premium price point. This plug-in hybrid SUV, designed for luxury and capability, delivered a surprisingly potent performance during the EcoRun. Despite its commanding size and a substantial 38 kWh battery pack providing an EPA estimated 48 miles of electric range, its efficiency with the combustion engine engaged was noteworthy.

During the real-world driving conditions of the EcoRun, the P440e impressively achieved 25.1 mpg (9.4 L/100 km). This figure represents a notable 19.4 percent improvement over its official EPA rating of 21 mpg (11.2 L/100 km). For a vehicle of its stature, this is a significant achievement, highlighting the effectiveness of its plug-in hybrid system even when operating without an initial battery charge, a specific condition of the EcoRun PHEV testing.

Crucially, this real-world efficiency is approximately 40 percent better than what a similarly powerful V8 gasoline-only Range Rover is estimated to achieve on the combined cycle. This illustrates that even a luxury behemoth like the Range Rover can deliver substantial fuel savings when equipped with advanced hybrid technology. While it did return one of the worst single-segment figures at 20 mpg on a particularly challenging leg, its robust overperformance against its own V8 sibling and its EPA estimate is a testament to intelligent powertrain integration.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Caption: 2022 Range Rover SE P440e (L460, fifth generation, United Kingdom)
Aka: Range Rover Vogue (1981–2022),Range Rover Autobiography (1994–present)
Name: Range Rover
Manufacturer: ubl
Production: 1969–present
Assembly: Solihull
Class: Mid-size luxury car,SUV
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: uk
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Land Rover Range Rover, generally shortened to Range Rover, is a 4WD luxury mid to full size crossover marque and sub-brand of Jaguar Land Rover, owned by India-based Tata Motors. The Range Rover line was launched in 1970 by British Leyland and since 2022 is in its fifth generation. Additional models have been launched under the Range Rover name, including the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar.

Get more information about: Range Rover

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Range Rover Model: P440e
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

9. **Lexus RZ 450e**Lexus’s inaugural dedicated electric vehicle, the RZ 450e, arrived with a fair bit of discussion surrounding its official range figures. Its stated 196 miles from a 71.4 kWh battery pack was met with less than enthusiastic reception when initially announced. However, Lexus was quick to emphasize that the vehicle’s efficiency, rather than pure numerical range, was a critical design priority, a claim tested during EcoRun.

In the diverse conditions of the EcoRun test, the Lexus RZ 450e certainly proved its efficiency mettle. It managed to beat its official EPA rating of 102 MPGe (3.0 mi/kWh, 20.7 kWh/100 km) by an impressive 18.2 percent. This strong showing demonstrates that the RZ 450e is indeed capable of extracting more from its battery than its window sticker might initially suggest, aligning with Lexus’s focus on operational efficiency.

While its 3.6 miles per kWh (17.3 kWh/100 km) consumption figure was, interestingly, matched by some larger, more powerful, and longer-range EVs in the test, the RZ 450e’s ability to exceed its own estimates is still a positive indicator. It confirms that Lexus has engineered a thoroughly efficient electric powertrain, providing drivers with greater practical range and reduced energy consumption in everyday scenarios than the conservative initial estimates might lead one to believe.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Lexus RZ
ModelCode: unbulleted list
Caption: Lexus RZ 450e (XEBM15, Germany)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: 2023–present
ModelYears: 2023–present (North America)
Assembly: Toyota, Aichi
Designer: Daichi Kimura
Class: Mid-size luxury car,crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Platform: e-TNGA
Related: unbulleted list
Motor: unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Powerout: 230 kW
Transmission: eAxle
Battery: kWh,Lithium-ion battery
Range: unbulleted list
Charging: 150nbspkW DC
Wheelbase: 2850 mm
Length: 4805 mm
Width: 1895 mm
Height: 1635 mm
Weight: convert
Sp: us
Categories: All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, Articles containing Japanese-language text, Articles with short description, CS1 Japanese-language sources (ja)
Summary: The Lexus RZ (Japanese: レクサス・RZ, Hepburn: Rekusasu RZ) is a battery electric mid-size luxury crossover SUV built by Toyota for its luxury division Lexus since 2023. It is considered a “large SUV” by Euro NCAP and a “small sport utility vehicle” by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The RZ is built on the e-TNGA platform shared with the Toyota bZ4X/Subaru Solterra, it is the first dedicated battery electric vehicle of the Lexus marque that will be sold worldwide and also the second battery electric model after the ICE-based UX 300e.

Get more information about: Lexus RZ

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Lexus Model: RZ 450e
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

10. **Kia Niro PHEV**The Kia Niro PHEV distinguished itself as the most economical combustion-engine vehicle among those tested at EcoRun. This boxy crossover, which might not immediately suggest aerodynamic prowess, surprised many with its ability to efficiently cut through the air. The notable lack of interior wind noise at highway speeds spoke volumes about its aerodynamic refinement, further enhanced by its distinctive rear side blades designed to channel air effectively around the vehicle.

Powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, the Niro PHEV delivers a respectable 180 horsepower (134 kW) and 195 lb-ft (265 Nm) of torque. This powertrain combination enabled it to achieve an outstanding 54.5 mpg in the test, a significant 11.1 percent improvement over its official 49 mpg (4.8 L/100 km) EPA rating. This level of overperformance is truly remarkable for a vehicle in its class, especially given its estimated electric range of 33 miles.

Consistency was also a strong suit for the Niro PHEV, as it delivered better than 52 mpg (4.5 L/100 km) on every single leg of the EcoRun. It culminated in an astonishing best of 71 mpg (3.3 L/100 km)—the highest single-leg efficiency recorded across the entire event. Moreover, the fact that this impressive feat was accomplished while the vehicle was equipped with snow tires, which typically reduce fuel economy, makes its performance even more laudable. Drivers found its hybrid system particularly adept at maintaining electric-only propulsion, even at highway speeds, a key factor in its superior real-world economy.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Kia Model: Niro PHEV
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

11. **Polestar 2**As the first all-electric vehicle on this particular segment of our list, the Polestar 2 dual-motor long-range model made a compelling case for its real-world performance. With an official EPA rating of 100 MPGe (3 mi/kWh, 20.7 kWh/100 km) and an advertised range of 260 miles, the expectations for its performance in the EcoRun were high, and it largely delivered, albeit with an interesting twist among its EV peers.

During the extensive testing, the dual-motor Polestar 2 recorded an average of 108.2 MPGe (3.2 mi/kWh, 19.4 kWh/100 km). This figure represents a solid 8.2 percent improvement over its official estimate. While the Polestar 2 registered the lowest overall efficiency among the EVs tested, achieving over 108 MPGe is far from a disappointment. It signifies a robust energy management system and a responsive powertrain that can exceed expectations when driven in varied conditions.

This real-world data suggests that the Polestar 2 is capable of managing closer to 280 miles on a full charge, extending its practical usability beyond the EPA’s initial 260-mile projection. This additional range is a significant bonus for owners, offering greater flexibility for longer journeys and reducing the frequency of charging stops, underscoring the tangible benefits of real-world efficiency gains that translate into everyday convenience.

Car Model Information: 2022 Polestar 2 Long Range Dual Motor
Name: Polestar 2
Manufacturer: Polestar
Production: 2020–present
Designer: Thomas Ingenlath
Assembly: Luqiao
Class: Luxury vehicle#Premium compact
BodyStyle: liftback
Layout: Front-motor, front-wheel-drive
Platform: Compact Modular Architecture
Related: Unbulleted list
Motor: Unbulleted list
Abbr: on
Sigfig: cite web
Battery: Unbulleted list
ElectricRange: Unbulleted list
Charging: Unbulleted list
Length: 4606 mm
Wheelbase: 2735 mm
Width: 1859 mm
Height: 1482 mm
Weight: cvt
Sp: us
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with unsourced statements, Articles with short description, Articles with unsourced statements from October 2019
Summary: The Polestar 2 is a battery electric 5-door liftback marketed by Polestar, an affiliate of Geely Holding and Volvo Cars. Based on the CMA platform, production began in March 2020 at the Luqiao CMA Super Factory in Luqiao, Zhejiang, China.

Get more information about: Polestar 2

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Polestar Model: 2
Price: $25,980 Mileage: 28,049 mi.

Lexus RX luxury SUV — File:Lexus RX 500h F SPORT+ (V) – f 14072024.jpg – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

12. **Lexus RX 500h**The Lexus RX 500h arrived at EcoRun billed as a “performance hybrid,” and its specifications certainly support that claim. Unlike some of its larger Toyota and Lexus hybrid counterparts, which often utilize a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, the RX 500h marries hybrid drive technology with the company’s 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder. The result is a substantial 376 horsepower (280 kW) system output, delivering genuinely rapid acceleration for a luxury SUV.

While its primary focus might lean towards spirited driving, the RX 500h still demonstrated a commendable ability to surpass its fuel economy estimates. Against an EPA rating of 27 mpg (8.7 L/100 km), which itself isn’t the highest among dedicated fuel-sippers, the RX 500h delivered 28.6 mpg (8.2 L/100 km) during the test. This translates to an encouraging 6.1 percent improvement over its expected efficiency, proving its hybrid system’s effectiveness even under performance demands.

It’s worth noting that the RX 500h, alongside the Range Rover PHEV, recorded the worst single-segment fuel economy of 20 mpg (11.9 L/100 km) on one particularly challenging leg of the EcoRun. However, its overall performance in exceeding its combined EPA estimate speaks to Lexus’s ability to blend high-performance attributes with intelligent hybrid efficiency, making it a compelling option for those who demand both power and reasonable fuel consumption in a luxury SUV.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Lexus RX
Caption: Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance (TALH17, Germany)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: Toyota Harrier
Production: December 1997 – present
ModelYears: 1998–present
Class: unbulleted list
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Chassis: Unibody
Successor: unbulleted list
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Lexus RX (Japanese: レクサス・RX, Hepburn: Rekusasu RX) is a luxury crossover SUV sold since 1998 by Lexus, a luxury division of Toyota. Originally released in its home market of Japan in late 1997 as the Toyota Harrier, export sales began in March 1998 as the Lexus RX. Considered as the first luxury crossover SUV by many sources, five generations of the RX have been produced to date, the first being compact in size, and the latter classified as mid-size. Both front- and four-wheel drive configurations have been used on the RX series, and several gasoline powertrain options, including V6 engines and hybrid systems, have been offered. In the Lexus model lineup, the RX sits below the larger Lexus LX (marketed as the Toyota Land Cruiser body-on-frame SUVs outside North America, respectively), and below the body-on-frame, but also mid-size GX SUV. The name “RX” stands for “Radiant Crossover”. It has also been labelled as “Recreational Cross Country” in some markets. The RX’s current Toyota counterpart is the Highlander/Kluger; past counterparts included the Harrier and Venza. The first-generation RX 300, fitted with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, began sales in 1998. The Japanese market Harrier released in 1997 also offered a 2.2-liter inline-four, later uprated to 2.4 liters. The second-generation RX 300 (3.0-liter V6) and RX 330 (3.3-liter V6) models went on sale in 2003, with both variants supplanted by the more powerful RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) in 2006. Like the previous series, a 2.4-liter inline-four engine was sold alongside the 3.0-liter V6 in the Japanese market Harrier. In 2005, a hybridized gasoline-electric version of the 3.3-liter second-generation model was made available as the RX 400h in export markets and as the Harrier Hybrid in Japan. For the third generation released in 2009, both RX 350 (3.5-liter V6) and RX 450h (3.5-liter V6 hybrid) models were initially offered, with an entry-level RX 270 (2.7-liter inline-four) offered by Lexus in some Asian markets, including in Japan, since 2010. Since the release of the third generation, Japanese sales have occurred under the RX name as opposed to Harrier as had been the case previously. In the fourth generation, a turbocharged (2.0-liter inline-four) RX 200t/300 model was introduced to replace the previous 2.7-liter unit. The RX has been assembled at Toyota Motor Kyushu since launch. The RX and RX Hybrid were the first Lexus models to be built outside Japan, with North American market versions produced at the Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada plant in Cambridge, Ontario beginning 2003 (RX) and expanded in 2014 (RX Hybrid). Hybrid transaxles are built at the Kokura plant in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka since 2009.

Get more information about: Lexus RX

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Brand: Lexus Model: RX 500h
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

13. **Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD**The Toyota Corolla Hybrid AWD emerged as a quiet achiever in the EcoRun, delivering efficiency figures that surprisingly surpassed even the acclaimed Prius Prime. What makes the Corolla’s performance impressive is that it accomplished this feat despite the added weight and mechanical complexity of an all-wheel-drive system, which typically penalizes fuel economy. This underscores Toyota’s mastery of hybrid powertrain integration across its diverse lineup.

The Corolla Hybrid AWD, featuring a 1.8-liter engine and electric motors driving both the front and rear wheels, offers a combined output of just 138 horsepower (103 kW). This is notably less power than the Prius Prime, a factor that likely contributed to its superior efficiency in the real-world test. On the demanding EcoRun route, the Corolla Hybrid AWD achieved an impressive 50.7 mpg (4.6 L/100 km).

This real-world result represents a solid 5.7 percent improvement over its official EPA estimate of 48 mpg (4.9 L/100 km). For buyers seeking a practical, reliable, and exceptionally efficient compact sedan, especially one offering the added traction of all-wheel drive, the Corolla Hybrid AWD proves to be an outstanding value. Its ability to exceed its estimates while offering everyday usability makes it a truly smart choice for discerning drivers.

Car Model Information: 2022 Toyota Corolla LE
Name: Toyota Corolla
Caption: Twelfth generation model (2020, hatchback)
Manufacturer: Toyota
Aka: unbulleted list
Production: November 1966 – present
Class: unbulleted list
Predecessor: Toyota Publica
Categories: 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars
Summary: The Toyota Corolla (Japanese: トヨタ・カローラ, Hepburn: Toyota Karōra) is a series of compact cars (formerly subcompact) manufactured and marketed globally by the Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation. Introduced in 1966, the Corolla was the best-selling car worldwide by 1974 and was one of the best-selling cars in the world until 1997, when it surpassed the Volkswagen Beetle as the world’s best-selling automobile of all time. Toyota reached the milestone of 50 million Corollas sold over twelve generations in 2021. The name Corolla is part of Toyota’s naming tradition of using names derived from the Toyota Crown for sedans, with “corolla” Latin for “small crown”. The Corolla has always been exclusive in Japan to Toyota Corolla Store locations, and manufactured in Japan with a twin, called the Toyota Sprinter until 2000. From 2006 to 2018 in Japan and much of the world, and from 2018 to 2020 in Taiwan, the hatchback companion had been called the Toyota Auris. Early models were mostly rear-wheel drive, while later models have been front-wheel drive. Four-wheel drive versions have also been produced, and it has undergone several major redesigns. The Corolla’s traditional competitors have been the Nissan Sunny, introduced the same year as the Corolla in Japan and the later Nissan Sentra, Subaru Leone, Honda Civic and Mitsubishi Lancer. The Corolla’s chassis designation code is “E”, as described in Toyota’s chassis and engine codes.

Get more information about: Toyota Corolla

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Brand: Toyota Model: Corolla
Price: $19,839 Mileage: 24,919 mi.

14. **Honda CR-V Hybrid**The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid shares the Accord’s efficient hybrid drive system, but with additional hardware for all-wheel drive. While the CR-V’s larger frontal area and the AWD system do inherently reduce its overall fuel efficiency compared to its sedan sibling, it demonstrated a commendable ability to surpass its official EPA estimates during the EcoRun.

With an EPA estimate of 37 mpg (6.4 L/100 km), the CR-V Hybrid delivered an impressive 38.5 mpg (6.1 L/100 km) in the real-world test. This translates to a solid 4 percent improvement over its expected figures, showcasing Honda’s consistent ability to engineer hybrids that perform better in practice. Interestingly, the CR-V consistently trailed the Accord by about 6 mpg on each leg, illustrating the practical impact of its larger size and AWD system.

Like many modern hybrids, the CR-V’s powertrain displayed unique characteristics during the test. Drivers observed that instantaneous fuel economy readings often showed either zero (in EV-only mode) or around 25 mpg (when the engine was primarily engaged), with little middle ground. This design makes it remarkably easy for drivers to engage and maintain electric-only mode, even at highway speeds, allowing them to optimize their fuel economy with relative ease and achieve real-world savings.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Honda CR-V ,(sixth generation)
Caption: 2024 Honda CR-V e:HEV Elegance
Manufacturer: Honda
ModelCode: unbulleted list
Aka: GAC Honda
Production: September 2022 – present
ModelYears: 2023–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Designer: Mitsuhiro Abe
Class: Compact crossover SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Platform: Honda HA
Related: unbulleted list
Engine: unbulleted list
Drivetrain: unbulleted list
Motor: Permanent magnet synchronous
Battery: ubl
ElectricRange: unbulleted list
Transmission: unbulleted list
Wheelbase: 2700 mm
Abbr: on (e:FCEV)
Length: unbulleted list
Order: flip (e:FCEV)
Width: 1866 mm
Height: convert
Weight: 4460 lb
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive,Front-engine, all-wheel-drive
Predecessor: Honda CR-V (fifth generation)
Categories: Articles with short description, CS1 Chinese-language sources (zh), CS1 Indonesian-language sources (id), CS1 Mexican Spanish-language sources (es-mx), CS1 Spanish-language sources (es)
Summary: The sixth-generation Honda CR-V is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by Honda since 2022, replacing the fifth-generation CR-V. Like its predecessor, the sixth-generation CR-V is available in 5-seater and 7-seater configurations. The sixth-generation CR-V is based on the Honda Architecture (HA) platform shared with the eleventh-generation Civic. Aside from a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine option, the sixth-generation CR-V is available with three electrified powertrains globally, which are the 2.0-litre petrol with e:HEV/Hybrid power-split hybrid, 2.0-litre petrol with e:PHEV plug-in hybrid, and e:FCEV plug-in hybrid fuel cell.

Get more information about: Honda CR-V (sixth generation)

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Brand: Honda Model: CR-V Hybrid
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

accord touring hybrid bose sound system — File:’05 Honda Accord Hybrid (Rear).JPG – Wikimedia Commons, Photo by wikimedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

15. **Honda Accord Hybrid**The redesigned 2023 Honda Accord Hybrid rounds out our list of overachievers, demonstrating that even modest improvements over EPA ratings are a win for consumers. Featuring a more powerful hybrid drive system, the Accord Hybrid now boasts 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque, offering a more engaging driving experience alongside its efficiency credentials.

Honda employs a unique front-wheel-drive system in the Accord Hybrid that eschews a traditional transmission. Instead, one of its two electric motors handles propulsion in most situations, with the gasoline engine directly driving the wheels via a clutch pack primarily at highway speeds. This innovative, potentially more cost-effective arrangement aims for maximum efficiency, and the EcoRun results supported its effectiveness on the road.

Against its EPA estimated 44 miles per gallon, the Accord Hybrid returned a consistent 44.7 mpg (5.3 L/100 km) during the EcoRun, representing a 1.7 percent improvement. Its consistency was particularly noteworthy, with most legs of the trip posting numbers right around 53 mpg (4.4 L/100 km). While its worst leg, a challenging mountain climb, saw it drop to 30 mpg, its overall performance reinforces that intelligent engineering, even with subtle gains, can make a significant difference in real-world driving. Like its CR-V sibling, the Accord Hybrid makes it easy for drivers to leverage its electric-only capabilities for improved efficiency.

**The Road Ahead: Driving Past Expectations**

The EcoRun 2023 results offer compelling evidence that official EPA ratings, while useful, are merely a starting point. The real-world performance of these electrified vehicles, particularly those that blew past their estimates, paints a vivid picture of innovative engineering, smart powertrain management, and the surprising influence of vehicle design. From rugged off-roaders leveraging electric torque to sleek sedans optimizing every watt, these cars redefine what we expect from efficiency.

Car Model Information: 2023 Nissan Rogue SL
Name: Honda Accord
Caption: 2023 Honda Accord LX (US)
Alt: Front three-quarter view of a front-engined four-door car.
Manufacturer: Honda
Production: 1976–present
Class: Compact car
BodyStyle: hatchback
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout
Predecessor: Honda 1300
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Honda Accord (Japanese: ホンダ・アコード, Hepburn: Honda Akōdo; ), also known as the Honda Inspire (Japanese: ホンダ・インスパイア, Hepburn: Honda Insupaia) in Japan and China for certain generations, is a series of automobiles manufactured by Honda since 1976, best known for its four-door sedan variant, which has been one of the best-selling cars in the United States since 1989. The Accord nameplate has been applied to a variety of vehicles worldwide, including coupes, station wagons, hatchbacks and a Honda Crosstour crossover.

Get more information about: Honda Accord

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Honda Model: Accord Hybrid
Price: $22,800 Mileage: 50,186 mi.

It’s a testament to the exciting advancements in hybrid and EV technology, where manufacturers are not just meeting benchmarks but actively exceeding them. As the automotive landscape continues its electrifying transformation, events like EcoRun provide invaluable insights, empowering drivers with the knowledge that many of today’s most efficient vehicles are ready to go the extra mile – and then some. The competition for real-world efficiency is fierce, and the ultimate winners are discerning drivers seeking maximum value and minimal environmental impact.