4 Cylinder SUVs: Top Picks for 2025 That Offer Power and Efficiency
When considering a new SUV, one of the key factors that buyers often weigh is the engine type. Traditionally, many SUVs were equipped with larger V6 or V8 engines for greater towing capacity and power. However, 4-cylinder SUVs have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their ability to balance performance with fuel efficiency. In 2025, more automakers are offering compact and midsize SUVs equipped with 4-cylinder engines, providing a great combination of practicality, performance, and savings at the pump. This article will explore the benefits of 4-cylinder SUVs and highlight some of the best models available for 2025.
Why Choose a 4 Cylinder SUV?
4-cylinder engines have long been known for their fuel efficiency, and with the latest technological advancements, they can now provide adequate power for most driving needs. The 4-cylinder engine design is simpler, lighter, and generally more fuel-efficient than larger engines, making it a great option for those who need the versatility of an SUV without the larger engine's higher operating costs.
Additionally, many 4-cylinder SUVs are designed with turbocharged engines that enhance power output without sacrificing fuel efficiency. This is particularly beneficial for drivers who want an SUV that can handle highway driving and light towing, but don't require the raw power of a V6 or V8.
Top 5 4 Cylinder SUVs for 2025
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Toyota RAV4 The Toyota RAV4 remains one of the most popular compact SUVs in the market, and the 2025 model continues to impress. Equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, the RAV4 offers a balanced combination of performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produces ample power for city driving and highway cruising, while the hybrid version provides even better fuel economy for eco-conscious drivers.
The 2025 RAV4 also comes with Toyota's standard suite of safety features, including lane departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and pre-collision system, ensuring peace of mind on the road. With its reputation for reliability, practicality, and low maintenance costs, the RAV4 remains a top choice in the 4-cylinder SUV category.
Key Features:
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2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine
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Available hybrid model for enhanced fuel efficiency
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Toyota Safety Sense suite for advanced driver assistance
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Honda CR-V The Honda CR-V has long been a leader in the compact SUV segment, known for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and exceptional fuel efficiency. The 2025 model continues the tradition with a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that delivers a perfect balance of power and efficiency. With 190 horsepower, the CR-V offers enough performance for most driving situations, including highway merging and light off-roading.
The 2025 CR-V features a spacious cabin with plenty of room for both passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families. It also includes Honda's suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation braking, lane-keeping assist, and road departure mitigation.
Key Features:
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1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
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Spacious and comfortable interior
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Honda Sensing suite of safety features
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Ford Escape The Ford Escape is another popular choice among compact SUVs, and the 2025 model provides a wide range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission that offers responsive acceleration and excellent fuel efficiency for city and highway driving.
The 2025 Escape also stands out with its tech features, including a standard 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. For families, the Escape provides a comfortable ride with ample cargo space, and it offers available all-wheel drive for better traction in challenging weather conditions.
Key Features:
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1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
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Standard 8-inch touchscreen with smartphone integration
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Available all-wheel drive for added traction
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Mazda CX-5 The Mazda CX-5 combines sportiness with practicality, making it a great choice for those who want an SUV that drives like a car but with the added benefits of extra space. The 2025 Mazda CX-5 comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 187 horsepower, providing a more spirited driving experience than many other compact SUVs in this class. It also offers excellent handling and a smooth ride, making it one of the most fun-to-drive SUVs in its segment.
Inside, the CX-5 boasts a premium interior with soft-touch materials, an intuitive infotainment system, and a quiet cabin. The 2025 model also includes a variety of standard and available safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a 360-degree camera system.
Key Features:
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2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower
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Premium interior with upscale materials
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Standard and available safety features like blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
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Hyundai Tucson The 2025 Hyundai Tucson is a compact SUV that stands out with its bold design, high-tech features, and impressive value for money. The Tucson comes with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine, providing plenty of power for both city and highway driving. It's also available in hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions, giving drivers more eco-friendly options.
The 2025 Tucson also offers a spacious and well-designed interior, with ample legroom for passengers and a generous amount of cargo space. Hyundai's standard safety features include forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and driver attention monitoring, making the Tucson a safe and practical choice for families.
Key Features:
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2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with hybrid and plug-in hybrid options
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Spacious interior with ample cargo space
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Standard safety features like forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist
Conclusion
4-cylinder SUVs have become a popular choice for buyers looking for a versatile and efficient vehicle that can handle daily driving and weekend adventures. The models listed above—Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Mazda CX-5, and Hyundai Tucson—are all excellent options for 2025, offering a combination of fuel efficiency, power, comfort, and advanced technology.
For buyers looking for an SUV that balances practicality with performance, a 4-cylinder engine is a great option. Whether you're looking for a vehicle that can comfortably transport your family or one that offers fun-to-drive dynamics, there's a 4-cylinder SUV for everyone. With the 2025 models continuing to evolve in both performance and technology, the future of 4-cylinder SUVs looks bright.
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