Ranking 2026 Kia SUVs by Combined Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency remains a top priority for drivers across Ontario seeking to maximize value while minimizing environmental impact. Kia's 2026 SUV lineup offers strong efficiency across multiple segments, with hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains leading the way. 

Understanding how these models compare helps you identify the right balance of capability, space, and economy for your driving needs.

The 2026 Kia lineup includes compact, midsize, and three-row SUVs with advanced electrified powertrains. Each model targets specific buyer priorities - from urban commuting to family hauling - while maintaining Kia's reputation for reliability and value. 

This ranking focuses exclusively on combined fuel economy ratings to help efficiency-focused buyers make informed decisions.

The Most Efficient: 2026 Kia Niro Lineup

The Niro family dominates Kia's efficiency rankings, offering three distinct powertrain options tailored to different driving patterns.

Niro EV: Pure Electric Efficiency

The 2026 Kia Niro EV leads with an electric consumption rating of 2.1 Le/100 km combined. This all-electric compact crossover delivers 201 horsepower and 188 lb-ft of torque through a front-wheel-drive configuration. 

With an estimated range of 407 kilometres and a 64.8 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, the Niro EV eliminates gasoline consumption entirely while providing practical cargo capacity of 646 litres with rear seats up.

DC fast charging capability allows 10-80% charging in approximately 43 minutes at 350 kW stations, making longer trips feasible. Level 2 charging completes a full charge in 6 hours 5 minutes with the onboard 11 kW charger.

Niro Hybrid: Traditional Hybrid Excellence

The 2026 Kia Niro Hybrid achieves 4.4 L/100 km combined on LX, EX, and EX Premium trims. This rating makes it one of the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered SUVs available. 

The powertrain pairs a 1.6-litre gasoline direct injection engine producing 104 horsepower with a 32 kW electric motor, delivering 139 horsepower combined.

The SX trim achieves 4.8 L/100 km combined - still highly efficient while offering additional performance-oriented features. With a 42-litre fuel tank, the Niro Hybrid provides strong range between fill-ups. 

Cargo capacity reaches 646 litres with rear seats upright, expanding to 1,805 litres when folded.

Niro Plug-In Hybrid: Best of Both Worlds

The 2026 Kia Niro PHEV offers dual-mode capability with 2.1 Le/100 km combined when operating in gasoline-and-electric mode, and 4.8 L/100 km combined in gasoline-only mode. 

The 11.1 kWh battery provides up to 55 kilometres of all-electric range - sufficient for most daily commutes without burning gasoline.

Combined output reaches 180 horsepower, with the 1.6-litre GDI engine and electric motor working together. The smaller 37-litre fuel tank reflects the reduced gasoline dependency, while cargo space measures 550 litres with seats up.

Midsize Efficiency Leaders: 2026 Kia Sportage Electrified Models

The Sportage family brings hybrid technology to the compact SUV segment, offering more space than the Niro while maintaining strong efficiency.

Sportage Hybrid: Balanced Performance and Economy

The 2026 Kia Sportage HEV achieves 6.7 L/100 km combined across all trims. This rating delivers strong efficiency for a compact SUV with standard all-wheel drive. 

The 1.6-litre turbocharged GDI engine pairs with a 47.7 kW electric motor to produce 232 horsepower combined and 271 lb-ft of torque.

With a 52-litre fuel tank and AWD capability, the Sportage HEV handles diverse driving conditions while maintaining economy. Cargo capacity reaches 977 litres behind the second row with the cargo floor raised, expanding to 1,119 litres when lowered. 

Towing capacity reaches 907 kg (2,000 lbs) when properly equipped.

Sportage Plug-In Hybrid: Maximum Flexibility

The 2026 Kia Sportage PHEV achieves 6.6 L/100 km combined. The 13.8 kWh battery and 72 kW electric motor deliver 268 horsepower combined with 271 lb-ft of torque. 

The smaller 42-litre fuel tank reflects increased electric operation capability.

Cargo space measures 977 litres behind the second row with the floor raised, matching the hybrid variant's practicality. The PHEV maintains the same 907 kg (2,000 lbs) towing capacity as the HEV.

Three-Row Efficiency: 2026 Kia Sorento Electrified Options

The Sorento brings hybrid technology to the three-row SUV segment, offering family-friendly space with improved fuel economy.

Sorento Hybrid: Three Rows, Strong Economy

The 2026 Kia Sorento HEV achieves 7.0 L/100 km combined - strong efficiency for a three-row SUV. The 1.6-litre turbo GDI engine pairs with a 47.7 kW electric motor to produce 227 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. 

Standard AWD and a 67-litre fuel tank provide capability and range.

Six-passenger seating with captain's chairs in the second row comes standard, while cargo capacity reaches 357 litres behind the third row, 1,090-1,274 litres behind the second row, and 2,139 litres with all rear seats folded. 

Towing capacity ranges from 750-907 kg (1,653-2,000 lbs) depending on configuration.

Sorento Plug-In Hybrid: Electrified Family Hauler

The 2026 Kia Sorento PHEV offers 2.8 Le/100 km combined in gasoline-and-electric mode, with 6.9 L/100 km combined in gasoline-only operation. Combined output reaches 268 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque.

The smaller 47-litre fuel tank reflects increased electric operation, while cargo dimensions match the HEV. Estimated charging time reaches 3.8 hours on 240V Level 2 equipment. 

Towing capacity ranges from 750-907 kg (1,650-2,000 lbs) when properly equipped.

Efficiency Comparison Table

Choosing the Right Efficient Kia SUV

Your ideal choice depends on daily driving patterns, passenger needs, and charging infrastructure access.

For urban commuters with home charging: The Niro EV or Niro PHEV eliminates most gasoline consumption while providing compact maneuverability. The EV suits drivers with predictable daily ranges under 300 kilometres, while the PHEV offers gasoline backup for longer trips.

For drivers without charging access: The Niro Hybrid delivers strong economy without requiring charging infrastructure. Its 4.4 L/100 km combined rating makes it one of the most fuel-efficient gasoline-powered SUVs available.

For families needing more space: The Sportage HEV balances compact SUV practicality with strong 6.7 L/100 km combined efficiency. Standard AWD and 907 kg (2,000 lbs) towing capacity add versatility.

For three-row capability: The Sorento HEV achieves 7.0 L/100 km combined efficiency while seating six passengers. The Sorento PHEV offers electric-only commuting capability with family-hauling flexibility.

Find Your Most Efficient Kia SUV

The 2026 Kia SUV lineup demonstrates that efficiency doesn't require compromising capability or space. From the pure-electric Niro EV to the three-row Sorento Hybrid, each model delivers strong economy while maintaining Kia's reputation for value and reliability.

Visit our team at Bessada Kia to explore the complete 2026 Kia SUV lineup and learn which efficient model best fits your driving needs.

To learn more about Kia SUVs like the 2026 Kia Sorento HEV, visit Kia.ca