Driving a bona fide SUV as an alternative of a crossover doesn’t imply limitless ache on the pumps. We’ve discovered essentially the most fuel-efficient 4×4 SUVs to present you most functionality with minimal fueling prices.
The road between crossover and SUV will be fairly blurry. Name us old school as a result of we consider an SUV as having a body that’s separate from the physique of the car. The suspension and physique are bolted to that body. It’s what offers the SUV its ruggedness — truck-like bones beneath that permit it work onerous.
Are there exceptions to that rule? In fact. So, we’ll name out the crossovers that may work simply as onerous as an SUV. Their credentials embrace off-road energy and high-capacity towing, however they don’t have a body-on-frame chassis.
Why do we’d like the separation? As a result of we imagine {that a} hardcore SUV fulfills our heavy-duty towing and all-around utility calls for. On the similar time, that ruggedness comes at the price of poor gasoline economic system.
We’ve used the EPA’s official gasoline economic system scores to search out the 12 SUVs that supply the perfect gasoline economic system and the go-anywhere traction of 4×4 or all-wheel drive (AWD). A few of these stunned us with their effectivity and the number of powertrains on the checklist.
Right here we now have essentially the most fuel-efficient SUVs, ranked from worst to finest, sorted by the EPA combined-cycle gasoline economic system ranking.
(If vehicles are extra your factor, try The ten Most Gasoline-Environment friendly 2022 4×4/AWD Pickups.)
The 12 Most Gasoline-Environment friendly 2023 4×4 SUVs
12. Infiniti QX80 (15 MPG)
The QX80 is Infiniti’s luxurious off-road brute. This large, three-row SUV comes with a 5.6L V8 that makes 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed computerized does its finest to assist gasoline economic system, however it’s working with plenty of weight and horsepower.
Regardless of luxurious options like quilted leather-based seats, it gives actual off-road functionality. It additionally gives Hydraulic Physique Movement Management suspension that may ship stress to the interior or outer suspension to assist cut back roll.
Infiniti’s QX80 can tow as much as 8,500 kilos. Its EPA estimate says it ought to return 13 mpg metropolis and 19 freeway.
2023 Infiniti QX80 Specs
- Engine: 5.6L 32-valve V8
- Horsepower: 400 hp at 5,800 rpm
- Torque: 413 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: Seven-speed computerized w/ adaptive shift management and handbook shift mode w/downshift rev-matching
- Drive sort: Infiniti All-Mode 4WD
- Max tow capability: 8,500 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 13 / 19 / 15 mpg
- Vary: 390 miles
11. Mercedes-Benz G 550 (16 MPG)
Magnificence meets beast within the 2023 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Trying fairly in contrast to the rest within the German luxurious automaker’s lineup, the G-Wagen (because the SUV can be recognized), is constructed for going locations the place others dare not. The German tank boasts a ladder-type body with a mounted physique that accounts for its off-roading energy and stability, plus it aids safety of the underbody components.
A 4.0L turbocharged V8 rated at 416 horsepower lies underneath the bonnet of the G 550. Mixed metropolis and freeway driving will web 16 mpg as per EPA estimates.
For others who scoff on the considered lowering their carbon footprint, the Mercedes-AMG G 63 packs a bi-turbo model of the motor, conjuring an imposing 577 horsepower.
2023 Mercedes-Benz G 550 Specs
- Engine: 4.0L V8 bi-turbo
- Horsepower: 416 hp at 5,250-5,500 rpm
- Torque: 450 lb.-ft. at 2,000-4,750 rpm
- Transmission: 9G-TRONIC 9-speed computerized
- Drive sort: Full-time AWD w/2-speed switch case
- Max tow capability: 7,000 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 14 / 17 / 16 mpg
- Vary: 416 miles
10. Lexus GX 460 (16 MPG)
The Lexus GX 460 is a rugged off-road body-on-frame SUV that has been on sale because the 2010 mannequin 12 months. Off-road devoted {hardware} consists of full-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed switch case, and Torsen locking heart differential. The most effective half about quantity 10 on our checklist of most fuel-efficient SUVs means you don’t should accept a stripped-down econobox.
Powering the GX 460 is a 4.6L V8 that makes 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a six-speed computerized. This modest mixture returns an EPA-estimated 16 mpg mixed metropolis and freeway driving.
2023 Lexus GX 460 Specs
- Engine: 4.6L DOHC 32-valve VVT-i V8
- Horsepower: 301 hp at 5,500 rpm
- Torque: 329 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed computerized ECT
- Drive sort: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 6,500 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 15 / 19 / 16 mpg
- Vary: 368 miles
9. Toyota 4Runner (17 MPG)
The Toyota 4Runner is similar to the Lexus GX listed above — 4×4 and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension are each provided, as is a locking rear differential. And the 4Runner is available in TRD particular variations that add much more spectacular off-road functionality options, together with tuned off-road shocks and is derived.
Not like the Lexus, the 4Runner comes with a V6 as an alternative of a V8. It means barely much less energy, at 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Mixed with a five-speed computerized, the Toyota is ready to supply barely improved gasoline economic system.
It could actually handle an EPA-estimated 16 mpg on metropolis streets and 19 mpg on the open freeway.
2023 Toyota 4Runner SR5 Specs
- Engine: 4.0L DOHC V6 VVT-i
- Horsepower: 270 hp at 5,600 rpm
- Torque: 278 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed computerized
- Drive sort: Half-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 5,000 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 16 / 19 / 17 mpg
- Vary: 391 miles
8. Ford Expedition / Lincoln Navigator (18 MPG)
The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator appear like very completely different autos from the surface and from behind the motive force’s seat. However beneath, they’re almost the identical. That features a absolutely boxed body, which additionally underpins the F-150 — the bestselling pickup on the earth.
Although it’s body-on-frame, utilizing aluminum for the bodywork trims some kilos out of the 2 large SUVs. That may assist save gasoline. As a substitute of a V8, the pair use a 3.5L V6 with two turbochargers.
The XL, XLT, and STX trims of the Expedition make 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The highest-end trims, the Timberline and Stealth, develop as a lot horsepower because the Navigator: 440. All fashions, no matter trim degree, use a 10-speed computerized transmission.
Authorities gasoline economic system estimates for the decrease trims of the four-wheel drive Expedition sit at 18 mpg in mixed driving. In line with the EPA, the heavier and higher-powered 4×4 Lincoln Navigator additionally returns 18 mpg.
2023 Ford Expedition (XL, XLT, STX) 4WD Specs
- Engine: 3.5L EcoBoost V6 w/auto start-stop
- Horsepower: 380 hp at 5,000 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb.-ft. at 2,250 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed computerized w/SelectShift
- Drive sort: Half-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 9,200 lbs. (w/Heavy-Responsibility Trailer Towing Package deal)
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 16 / 22 / 18 mpg
- Vary: 418 miles
7. Jeep Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer Hurricane (19 MPG)
The acclaimed V8 engine from Stellantis will quickly be part of the dodo hen as Dodge, RAM, and Jeep transition towards electrification. Assuming the mantle of industrial quality hauler is an all-new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six dubbed the Hurricane. Two variations of the Hurricane will go into the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
The primary variant of the twin-turbo engine will summon 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque, and a major increase in gasoline financial savings over the 6.4L V8. The second variant, the Hurricane 510, rustles up 510 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque. Put all that energy into play, and trailering capability maxes out at 9,800 to 10,000 kilos.
The Grand Wagoneer is a critical luxurious mannequin with an effortlessly easy powertrain boasting unimaginable capabilities and refinement. Low-range gearing, Selec-Terrain traction administration, and an out there electronically managed air suspension with adjustable journey top are all a part of the equation.
EPA estimates for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer Hurricane culminate at 19 mpg in mixed freeway and metropolis driving.
2023 Grand Wagoneer Hurricane Specs
- Engine: 3.0L Hurricane twin-turbo
- Horsepower: 420 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 468 lb.-ft. at 3,500 rpm
- Transmission: Eight-speed computerized
- Drive sort: AWD
- Max tow capability: 9,800 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 16 / 23 / 19 mpg
- Vary: 494 miles
6. Lexus LX 600 (19 MPG)
The posh counterpart of the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser makes use of the identical platform because the all-new Toyota Tundra. It additionally will get a model of the truck’s new powertrain: a 409-horsepower twin-turbo 3.4L V6 and 10-speed computerized. The Lexus LX 600 underwent a whole redesign in 2022, so solely a bit of has modified for 2023.
Within the LX 600, you’ll discover full-time four-wheel drive, energetic height-adjustable suspension, and even crawl management. It doesn’t appear like an off-roader, however don’t let the spindle grille idiot you. This large ute can wheel.
It has an official estimate of 19 mpg total.
2023 Lexus LX 600 Specs
- Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6
- Horsepower: 409 hp @ 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 479 lb.-ft. @ 2,000-3,600 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed computerized w/SelectShift
- Drive sort: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 8,000 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 17 / 22 / 19 mpg
- Vary: 401 miles
5. Ford Bronco 2-Door EcoBoost (20 MPG)
The primary actual competitor to the Jeep Wrangler in years, the Ford Bronco places the Ford Ranger platform to good use. The fashionable off-roader helps you to take away the doorways, the roof, and even the fenders. It additionally has computerized and handbook transmission variations that provide the similar gasoline economic system ranking.
The shorter and lighter Bronco two-door will get the perfect gasoline economic system. It’s additionally the one one that gives the seven-speed follow crawler gear.
Fitted with the two.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, Bronco gives 275 horsepower and 315 pound-feet on common fuel. It’ll handle 300 horsepower in case you spend further for premium gasoline.
The mighty little engine will reward you with 20 mpg in mixed metropolis and freeway driving.
2023 Ford Bronco 2-Door Specs
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 w/auto start-stop
- Horsepower: 300 hp at 5,700 rpm (premium gasoline)
- Torque: 325 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm (premium gasoline)
- Transmission: 10-speed computerized w/SelectShift
- Drive sort: Half-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 3,500 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 20 / 21 / 20 mpg
- Vary: 338 miles
4. Toyota Sequoia 4WD (20 MPG)
By and enormous, the all-new 2023 Sequoia gives a very highly effective driving expertise. Bringing all that power to bear is an i-Power MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain that’s good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of twist. A part of that hybrid magic requires a 48-horsepower electrical motor sandwiched between the V6 and a 10-speed computerized transmission.
The powerplant isn’t the one piece of recent tech in widespread with the Tundra. The redesigned Sequoia sits on a contemporary body-on-frame chassis with a completely boxed body additionally shared by the Tundra. Nonetheless, Toyota’s revamped SUV carries a beefy presence — and never simply because it pushes the restrict of each single parking house it occupies.
Can we miss the trusty V8? Sure, however the brand new Sequoia hybrid delivers extra energy, extra torque, spectacular gasoline economic system, and an total higher expertise. Learn our evaluate of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia to study extra particulars and insights.
2023 Toyota Sequoia SR5 4WD Specs
- Engine: i-FORCE MAX: 3.5L aluminum block V6 Hybrid, twin-turbochargers
- Horsepower: 437 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 583 lb.-ft. at 2,400 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed computerized
- Drive sort: Half-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 9,120 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 19 / 22 / 20 mpg
- Vary: 450 miles
3. Cadillac Escalade/GMC Yukon XL/ Chevrolet Tahoe/Chevrolet Suburban 3.0 Duramax Diesel (22 MPG)
Sure, that’s plenty of autos, all underneath one entry. Whereas this gaggle of GM SUVs differs in appears and viewers, all of them share the identical chassis.
GM’s large haulers can tow as much as 8,000 kilos when fitted with the three.0L Duramax diesel engine and four-wheel drive. The Duramax turbo inline-six makes 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 10-speed computerized helps take advantage of that.
GM gives luxurious fashions, family-friendly carriages, and even SUVs designed for work responsibility and off-roading, letting you choose one excellent on your wants. Whichever one fits your fancy, official estimates report 22 mpg for the diesel powerplant.
2023 GMC Yukon 4WD Specs
- Engine: 3.0L DOHC I-6 Duramax turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 277 hp at 3,750 rpm (diesel gasoline)
- Torque: 460 lb.-ft. at 1,500 rpm (diesel gasoline)
- Transmission: 10-speed computerized w/SelectShift
- Drive sort: Half-time 4WD
- Max tow capability: 8,000 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 20 / 26 / 22 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Vary: 528 miles
2. Jeep Wrangler 4xe (49 MPGe)
The final word off-roader with a plug. The Jeep Wrangler has been the king of manufacturing facility off-road SUVs for many years, with solely Ford’s Bronco making an attempt to wrestle away the crown.
Now the Wrangler gives extra than simply rugged functionality, detachable doorways, and a prime that may keep at house. The Wrangler 4xe helps you to off-road silently, utilizing solely electrical energy.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the 4xe combines an electrical motor and a 2.0L turbo-four. The mixed energy output equals 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. To not point out the power to drive on electrical energy for as much as 21 miles.
That’s sufficient to present Wrangler 4xe a miles-per-gallon equal of 49. It will get 20 mpg mixed when the battery is empty.
Jeep additionally gives a 2.0L four-cylinder Wrangler that may have held this spot on our checklist of most fuel-efficient SUVs — if the hybrid didn’t exist — with a 23 mpg mixed EPA ranking.
2023 Jeep Wrangler 4xe Specs
- Engine: 2.0L turbo I-4
- Horsepower: 270 hp at 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 295 lb.-ft. at 3,000 rpm
- eTorque belt-start generator/motor: 44 hp / 39 lb-ft
- Transmission: Plug-in hybrid 8-speed computerized
- Built-in transmission traction motor: 134 hp / 181 lb.-ft.
- Complete powertrain output:
- Horsepower: 375 hp at 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb.-ft. at 3,000 rpm
- Drive sort: 4WD
- Max tow capability: 3,500 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (MPGe/mixed): 49 / 20 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Vary: 370 miles
1. Rivian R1S (69 MPGe)
The first Rivian R1S SUVs began delivery in 2022, making this electrical car the one body-on-frame SUV EV on sale now. Not 100% conventional, because the body holds the electrical battery and powertrain. However we are saying it nonetheless counts, as does 14.9 inches of floor clearance and as much as 7,700 kilos of towing.
Provided with a four-motor AWD making 835 horsepower and 908 pound-feet or a dual-motor AWD with 600 horsepower and 600 pound-feet of torque, the R1S has copious quantities of energy.
With a 135kWh battery pack, it gives as much as 316 miles of vary. All of that expertise equates to 69 MPGe.
2023 Rivian R1S Specs
- Motor: 2 AC everlasting magnet per wheel
- Horsepower: 600 hp
- Torque: 600 lb.-ft.
- Transmission: 1-Pace Automated
- Battery pack: 135 kWh lithium-ion
- Drive sort: Quad-motor AWD
- Max tow capability: 7,700 lbs.
- Gasoline economic system (metropolis/hwy/mixed): 73 / 65 / 69 MPGe
- EV vary: 316 miles
The Most Gasoline-Environment friendly Nearly-SUVs
We all know that discerning the distinctions between an SUV and a crossover are robust. That’s why we defined our methodology up prime. However we additionally perceive that some crossovers severely bridge the hole, just like the unibody-constructed autos under.
These autos can tow as a lot as conventional body-on-frame SUVs, and a few supply spectacular off-road capabilities. So, here’s a fast hit of those that we name “on the fence,” listed from good to exceptional for his or her gasoline economic system.
Land Rover Defender P400 (20 mpg): 18/23 metropolis/freeway. Each three-door 90 and five-door 110 fashions get the identical economic system in mild-hybrid 3.0L I6 trims.
Dodge Durango (21 mpg): 18/25 metropolis/freeway. The Durango gives one of many highest tow scores of any crossover — as much as 8,700 kilos — a formidable effort.
Hyundai Palisade/Kia Telluride (22 mpg): 19/27 metropolis/freeway. These two brutes are clearly attempting to appear like an SUV, even when they’ve a unibody chassis. However, the three.8L V6 does it proper.
Nissan Pathfinder (23 mpg): 21/27 metropolis/freeway. The all-new Pathfinder can tow like an SUV — as much as 6,000 kilos — even when it’s a crossover.
Ford Explorer Hybrid (25 mpg): 23/26 metropolis/freeway. Brawny sufficient to sort out 5,000 kilos of trailer weight and have sufficient floor clearance to present it above-average off-road functionality, the three-row Explorer Hybrid manages towing and hauling duties with aplomb.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (56 MPGe): 26-mile all-electric vary, 23 mpg mixed. The plug-in Grand Cherokee can supply spectacular gasoline financial savings.
The ten Most Gasoline-Environment friendly 2022 4×4/AWD Pickups
