As of this writing, the national average fuel price in the United States is $4.24 per gallon, according to the American Automobile Association.

Up 20% from a month ago, gas prices aren91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™t likely to taper or deflate unless crude oil supply improves or consumer demand softens. Until that happens, costly fill-ups are hitting Americans who are already grappling with inflation.

Understandably, drivers are keen to keep their fuel bills in check. Purchasing a new vehicle solely for better fuel economy isn91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™t usually a wise decision, and that91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s especially true in today91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s shortage-plagued car-buying market. But if you were already shopping for a new SUV, now91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s a great time to consider a more fuel-efficient model.

To refine your research, Edmunds highlights five SUVs based on a combination of EPA-estimated fuel economy and our test team91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s full evaluations of performance, utility and more. All prices below include the destination charge.

2022 FORD ESCAPE HYBRID

Offered in both conventional and plug-in hybrid variations, the 2022 Ford Escape is one the most fuel-efficient small SUVs you can buy. The standard hybrid earns an EPA-estimated 41 mpg combined (44 city/37 highway), giving it a total potential maximum range of 582 miles. The plug-in hybrid returns 40 combined mpg and supplements its efficiency with 37 miles of electric-only operation. That means those with shorter commutes and convenient charging options may rarely need to use fuel.

Regardless of configuration, the Ford Escape Hybrid boasts a comfortable cabin, a compliant ride and sufficient power. A couple of drawbacks are its smaller than average cargo capacity and air conditioner that doesn91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™t quite get super cold on hot days.

Starting price: $30,415

2022 TOYOTA RAV4 HYBRID

Like the Escape, Toyota91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s RAV4 is offered in both hybrid and plug-in flavors. The conventional hybrid nets 40 combined mpg (41 city/38 highway) for a total max range of 580 miles. The RAV4 Prime PHEV scores 38 combined mpg and a class-leading 42-mile all-electric range. Better still, the Prime is downright quick with 302 horsepower and a 0 to 60 mph sprint of just 5.6 seconds.

Other highlights of the 2022 RAV4 Hybrid include a roomy cabin, plenty of cargo space and standard all-wheel drive. Drivers will be less enthused with a somewhat awkward brake feel and the infotainment system91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s dated-looking graphics.

Starting price: $30,290

HYUNDAI TUCSON HYBRID

The Hyundai Tucson small SUV is fully redesigned for 2022. In addition to distinctive new styling and features, Hyundai has added hybrid powertrains to the Tucson91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s portfolio. Rated at 38 combined mpg (38 city/38 highway), and slightly less on higher trims, the standard hybrid can travel up to an estimated 521 miles on a single tank. Alternatively, the plug-in model returns 35 combined mpg and offers 33 miles of all-electric range.

Spacious, pleasant-riding and quick, the Hyundai Tucson is currently Edmunds91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™ highest-rated hybrid SUV. Fuel economy and electric range lag slightly behind close competitors, but Hyundai91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s class-leading warranty provides extra ownership assurance.

Starting price: $30,595.

TOYOTA HIGHLANDER HYBRID

Thankfully, those requiring a third row of seating aren91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™t doomed to bad gas mileage. The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid touts class-leading fuel economy of 36 mpg combined (36 city/35 highway), for a total range of 616 miles. Toyota91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s modest upcharge over the base Highlander and lower starting price than rivals keep the Hybrid attainable.

The Highlander Hybrid is easy to maneuver and smooth-riding, and it includes a full suite of driver aids as standard. Taller riders will have a tight squeeze in the third row and cargo space behind that row is constrained, though the total cabin volume is competitive.

Starting price: $40,270

2022 TESLA MODEL Y

The only thing better than fuel sipping is fuel abstinence. Tesla91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s Model Y Long Range serves up to 330 miles of electric range on a full charge. In our own range testing, we91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™ve found the Model Y underperforms its EPA estimate a little, but it91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ™s still one of the best SUVs available for going the distance. With overnight top-ups via a Level 2 charger, or stops at a Tesla Supercharger station, most drivers will never experience range anxiety and can happily ignore lofty fuel prices.

The Model Y is quick and cavernous, and it offers cutting-edge technology. Its inconsistent build quality and uninspiring design have opened the door for new challengers, however.

Starting price: $64,440

EDMUNDS SAYS:

A burgeoning electric vehicle market and compelling hybrid options give consumers a variety of ways to beat the prices at the pump. But keep in mind that amid a vehicle shortage and rising fuel costs, these cars may be even harder to find or may carry premiums at dealers.

91ÂãÁÄÊÓƵ”Miles Branman, The Associated Press