I am looking for a vehicle with good gas milage (over 25 mpg) in which I can carry 1 - 3 bikes inside. So with the seats down, the dimensions need to min. of 6’ length and 45" height. It works in my astro van, but I only get 20 mpg. Oh yes, it also needs to be AWD or 4wd since I live in the mountains. thanks
Ypou are stating 2 different needs. Most compact hatchbacks can accommodate 3 bikes with the rear seat folded down That leaves space for driver and passenger. Look at the Toyota Matrix, Pontiac Vibe, Mazda 3 Hatchback, Honda Element, Scion xB?, etc. All have 4 cylinder engiees and are very economical to operate.
You now drive an Astro Van, 2WD I assume. Did you just move to the mouintains, or has someone told you you NEED AWD? How did you manage before with the Astro? I live near the mountains and hike and ski year round there. We have not found any need for AWD, but have good winter tires (not all weather tires), such as Michelin X-ICE, on our cars.
AWD vehicles (SUVs) have less inside room, but you should check out the new Honda CRV, the new Subaru Forester, and, I believe the Matrix/Vibe will be avilable with AWD. A bigger AWD SUV will be a lot thirstier than your Astro van.
Another solution is to buy a regular compact car and mount a 3-bike rack on the back with a trailer hitch. I see a lot of these.
You’re going to have to go look for yourself. One trunk may have larger dimensions then another trunk, but because of it’s configuration getting bikes in and out could be more difficult.
Have you looked at something like Scion XB, or the Honda Element. Both get OVER 25mpg and I think either can accomidate 2-3 bikes easily…but check anywaays.
And take your bikes with you when you shop. The sales staff will see how serious you are that this criterium is important, or no sale. Back when I got my 92 Explorer I took the salesman on a little test drive to my band practice room and pointed out 4 speaker cabinets, 2 amp heads, 2 bass guitars, floor monitor, lights & stands, mic & guitar stands, 2 milk crates of wires & cables, and a 5 piece drum kit & stands and stated " I have to fit these in there or no sale " .
He actually helped me load…I bought the truck .
The bikes may fit in a Scion Xb, but they will definitely fit in a Honda Element.
Overall, Consumer Reports achieved 21 mpg with an Element, and 23 mpg with an Xb. The highway mileage will be higher, but the combined city/highway mileage of these vehicles, as well as virtually anything else big enough for your purposes, will be a few mpg lower–as it is with the Element and the Xb.
I am not being silly but the Frieghtliner/Dodge Sprinter gets mileage in that area and is very roomy, if a big van fits your lifestyle.
If you could live with FWD, the Mazda 5 or Kia Rondo might work (go with a set of mounted snows during the winter).