The Least Fuel-Efficient Car: A Guzzler's Guide

what is the worst fuel efficient car

The fuel efficiency of a car is an important selling point for those looking for a new vehicle. However, it doesn't influence every purchase. Certain cars and trucks are worth being a little thirsty at the pump if they are worth the driving experience or money. Sports cars, luxury cars, and supercars are often the least fuel-efficient, with brands like Bugatti, Lamborghini, Ferrari, Bentley, and Rolls-Royce making frequent appearances on the list of the worst fuel economy cars. However, some mass-market vehicles also compete for the title of the worst fuel economy.

Characteristics Values
Worst Fuel Economy Cars Bugatti Chiron, Bugatti Divo, Lamborghini Aventador, Lamborghini Urus, Ferrari GTC4Lusso, Lexus LX570, Land Rover Discovery, Audi SQ5, Audi S8, Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, Ford Ranger Raptor, Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, Cadillac CT5 V, Audi RS Q8, Infiniti QX80, Porsche 911 GT3, Nissan Armada, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, Bentley Continental GT, Bentley Flying Spur, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Explorer, Chevy, Ford Galaxie 500, Peterbuilt
Worst Fuel Economy Trucks Roush-modified Ford F-150, Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang

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Sports cars and SUVs are common offenders

Other sports cars with poor fuel efficiency include the Ferrari GTC4Lusso, the Lexus LX570, and the Aston Martin V12 Vantage, which gets an estimated 12 miles per gallon in the city. The Mercedes-Benz GLA-class AMG-tuned GLA45 variation is another sports car with poor fuel efficiency, getting just 20 miles per gallon in the city and 27 on the highway for a combined 23.

When it comes to SUVs, the Lexus LX 570 is a large SUV with a fuel economy of 13 miles per gallon in the city. The Toyota Sequoia, a full-size SUV, gets just 14 miles per gallon combined when equipped with the 5.7-litre V-8 engine and 4WD drivetrain. The Nissan Armada, another full-size SUV, gets 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 on the highway for a combined 15. The Merc-AMG GLS 63 is another large SUV that lags behind in fuel efficiency, although it boasts an impressive 585 horsepower.

In addition to sports cars and SUVs, trucks and luxury sedans are also known for their poor fuel economy. The GMC Savana 3500 and Chevrolet Express 3500, for example, have a combined estimate of 13 miles per gallon. The Bentley Continental Flying Spur sedan has a respectable 20 miles per gallon on the highway but a low estimate of 12 miles per gallon in the city.

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The 2024 Nissan Armada is a large SUV with poor fuel economy

The Nissan Armada's poor fuel economy is partly due to its powerful engine and large size. The 2025 model, with its twin-turbo V-6 engine, produces 425 horsepower and offers a maximum towing capacity of 8500 pounds. This type of performance and capability comes at the cost of fuel efficiency. Additionally, as a large SUV, the Armada has a higher drag coefficient than smaller, more compact vehicles, which can also contribute to its poor fuel economy.

When compared to other vehicles in its class, the Nissan Armada falls short in terms of fuel efficiency. For example, the 2025 Infiniti QX80, which shares the same engine as the 2025 Armada, is rated at up to 18 mpg combined. Other SUVs in the full-size class may offer similar towing capabilities and passenger space but with better fuel economy. However, it's worth noting that the Armada's fuel economy is not the worst among all vehicles.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) publishes an annual list of the "Least Efficient Cars by EPA Size Class," which typically includes high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles. In 2020, the Bugatti Chiron and the Lamborghini Aventador were among the vehicles with the worst fuel economy, with combined mpg ratings of 11 and 13, respectively. While the Nissan Armada's fuel economy is not exceptional, it fares better than these low-efficiency vehicles.

Overall, while the 2024 Nissan Armada offers impressive performance, capability, and space, its poor fuel economy is a trade-off that potential buyers should consider. With a combined fuel economy of up to 16 mpg for the 2024 model and an estimated improvement for the 2025 model, the Armada may not be the best choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient SUV. However, for those prioritizing power and space, the Armada could still be a viable option despite its fuel economy drawbacks.

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The 2024 Audi RS Q8 is a performance crossover SUV

Let's start with the engine. The RS Q8 boasts a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine that delivers an impressive 591 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. This engine is paired with Quattro all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth and responsive acceleration. The RS Q8 can blast from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds, a performance that rivals more expensive vehicles like the Lamborghini Urus.

The RS Q8's performance is further enhanced by its advanced features. It comes standard with an adaptive air suspension system, which offers a controlled ride height and damping, resulting in precise and thrilling handling. The Electromechanical Active Roll Stabilization (eAWS) system, with integrated electric motors, counteracts body lean during cornering, providing exceptional stability. The quattro rear sport differential enables seamless power transfer to the appropriate wheel while cornering, giving you unparalleled control.

The exterior design of the RS Q8 reflects its power and performance. It features larger air intakes, a Singleframe® honeycomb grille, and a prominent rear diffuser with dual oval RS exhaust tips. The HD Matrix-design LED headlights with Audi laser light and Digital OLED taillights not only enhance visibility but also add to the vehicle's sleek and aggressive look.

The interior of the RS Q8 is equally impressive. The five-seat cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for adults in both rows. The RS-specific trim includes sportier, aggressively bolstered front seats to keep you securely in place during those high-speed cornering maneuvers. The luxury-lined cabin features soft leather upholstery, faux suede accents, and sharp-looking display screens, creating an atmosphere of both excitement and refinement.

While the 2024 Audi RS Q8 certainly delivers on performance and style, it comes at a cost. With a starting price of $126,995, it is a significant investment. Additionally, fuel efficiency may be a concern, with EPA estimates of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway. However, in a real-world 75-mph highway fuel economy test, the RS Q8 achieved a more impressive 23 mpg.

So, if you're in the market for a high-performance SUV that offers an exhilarating driving experience, the 2024 Audi RS Q8 is a strong contender. With its potent engine, advanced handling technologies, and stylish design, it provides a perfect blend of performance and luxury.

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The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is a hybrid sports car

While some cars are known for their poor fuel efficiency, such as the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, which gets an estimated 8 miles per gallon in the city, and the Lamborghini Aventador, which gets 15 miles per gallon on the highway, the 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 offers a different proposition. This hybrid sports car, with its sleek and edgy design, provides a unique blend of performance and value, making it a regular fixture on the Editors' Choice list.

The Corvette Z06 is not just about looks; under the hood, it packs a punch with a 670-horsepower, 5.5-liter flat-plane crank V-8 engine that can reach 8500 rpm. This engine, combined with its advanced aerodynamics, allows the Z06 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a breathtaking 2.6 seconds, outperforming rivals like the Porsche 911 GT3. Its mid-engine design and advanced damping system provide exceptional precision and control, making it a true supercar that's equally at home on the track as on the open road.

The Z06's retractable hardtop roof seamlessly integrates into the body design, allowing drivers to enjoy the breeze without compromising performance. The interior boasts a fighter jet-inspired cockpit, keeping everything within easy reach for a seamless driving experience. Available in striking colors like Riptide Blue Metallic, Cacti Green, and Sea Wolf Gray Tricoat, the Z06 also offers dual racing stripes and carbon-fiber wheels with optional red stripes for a truly customized look.

The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 is more than just a high-performance sports car; it's an engineering marvel that delivers an exceptional driving experience. With its advanced technology, precision handling, and versatile performance, the Z06 has raised the bar for hybrid sports cars, offering an attractive package that's accessible to enthusiasts and collectors alike.

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The 2024 Bentley Continental GT has a 12-cylinder engine

The 2024 Bentley Continental GT is a powerful and luxurious grand touring car. With a starting price of $244,275, it offers a range of models, including the GT V8 Coupe, GTC Speed Convertible, and GT Mulliner V8 Coupe. While the 2024 specifications are not available, the 2025 model is equipped with a plug-in-hybrid powertrain, marking a transition from the previous W-12 engine. This new powertrain pairs a twin-turbo V-8 engine with an electric motor, resulting in an impressive 771 horsepower.

Now, let's talk about the 12-cylinder engine. While the 2024 Bentley Continental GT is an exceptional car, it is important to note that it is not known for its fuel efficiency. The 2025 model has transitioned to a plug-in-hybrid powertrain, replacing the previous 6.0-liter W-12 engine. This engine produced up to 650 horsepower, which is less than the new hybrid powertrain. The W-12 engine was known for its power and performance, but it may not have been as fuel-efficient as other engines.

When it comes to fuel efficiency, there are a few factors to consider. The first is the environmental impact of the car's fuel consumption. Cars with lower fuel efficiency contribute more to air pollution and climate change. The second factor is the cost of fuelling the car. Fuel-inefficient cars can be more expensive to run, as they require more fuel to cover the same distance as a fuel-efficient car. This can add up to a significant expense over the car's lifetime.

Some of the worst fuel-inefficient cars, according to the Environmental Protection Agency's list of "Least Efficient Cars by EPA Size Class," include high-performance sports cars and luxury vehicles. For example, the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, with 1500 horsepower, has an estimated fuel economy of just 8 miles per gallon in the city. Similarly, the Lamborghini Aventador, with 730 horsepower, offers 13 miles per gallon on the highway. These cars prioritize power and performance over fuel efficiency, and their fuel economy numbers reflect that.

While the 2024 Bentley Continental GT with a 12-cylinder engine may not be the most fuel-efficient car on the market, it represents a balance between performance and luxury. The new hybrid powertrain in the 2025 model suggests that Bentley is moving towards more sustainable options while still delivering the power and elegance expected of the Continental GT.

Frequently asked questions

The 2024 Nissan Armada is one of the worst fuel-efficient cars, unsurprising given that the SUV is large enough to fit inside a 2,500-year-old redwood tree. The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 and the 2024 Bentley Continental GT also made it onto the list of the worst fuel mileage contenders.

The 2024 Audi RS Q8, the 2024 Infiniti QX80, the 2024 Porsche 911 GT3, the 2024 Jeep Wrangler, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado ZR2, the 2024 Cadillac CT5 V, the 2024 Bentley Flying Spur, the 2020 Bentley Mulsanne, the 2020 Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang, the 2025 Audi S8, the 2025 Land Rover Discovery, and the 2025 Mercedes S-Class are all cars that have poor fuel efficiency.

The 1969 Charger with a 440 Magnum engine, the 1966 Galaxie with a “small” 289 V8 engine, the 1972 Chevy Dually, the 1969 Ford Galaxie 500, the Lamborghini Aventador, the Bugatti Chiron, the Bugatti Chiron Pur Sport, the Ford Explorer, the Roush-modified Ford F-150, the Ferrari GTC4Lusso, the Lamborghini Urus, the Lexus LX570, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio, the Ford Ranger Raptor, the Lexus LC500 Cabriolet, and the Audi SQ5 are all older models of cars that have poor fuel efficiency.

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