Which SUV offers good fuel economy and reliability?

I am a tall 60-year-old man who needs something higher off the ground. I have been looking at SUVs, notably diesels, not necessarily new but as a pensioner I want my cake and to eat it. I'd like something with good fuel economy, well built, reliable and cheap to repair. I have looked at CR-Vs, Hyundai ix35s and even the Dacia Duster. I would appreciate your thoughts.

Asked on 8 June 2013 by PT, via email

Answered by Honest John
The lowest emission new SUVs are the Renault Captur 1.5dCI EDC at 66g/km and the Peugeot 2008 1.6 HDI 92 EGS at 99g/km, both with free annual tax. Dusters are not particularly low emission, at best I think 139g/km. Mazda CX-5s get down to 119g/km and £30 tax. The forthcoming new CR-V 1.6iDTEC 2WD should also be under 120g/km.
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