Full Size SUVs with Best Gas Mileage

The 2024 Lexus TX three-row SUV is an all-new model, slotting above the popular midsize RX. The RX offered a three-row L version for five years, but Lexus dropped the RX-L after 2022, returning to a five-passenger-only RX SUV as it prepared for the TX debut. This was a good move, as the RX-L, built on the standard RX's wheelbase, had only an additional 6 inches of overall length. That meant the third row was not very spacious, and cargo capacity behind the rear seats was cramped. The all-new Lexus TX solves those issues with a longer wheelbase, which results in a spacious cabin, generous cargo capacity with or without rear passengers, and most importantly, a two-passenger third-row seat designed for adults.

Due in dealer showrooms this fall, the TX will challenge other feature-laden three-row SUVs, including the slightly smaller Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90. The MDX doesn't offer a hybrid version, while the TX comes with three powertrain options: a turbocharged four-cylinder for the TX 350, a hybrid-powered TX 500h, and a TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid with an expected all-electric driving range of 33 miles. The Aviator comes in a standard gasoline-powered turbocharged V6 or plug-in hybrid model, and the XC90 gets a four-cylinder turbo, a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder, and a plug-in version of the turbo engine covered in a separate XC90 Recharge review.

Although Lexus hasn't released a full list of features and options by trim level, we expect all versions to be well-equipped luxury SUVs. We do know all-wheel drive is available on all models, the entry-level TX 350 comes in three different trim grades (Standard, Premium, and Luxury), and all versions get a 14-inch infotainment touchscreen with the option to add a 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system. We'll have more information, including driving impressions, later this year.

The 2025 BMW X5 is the rare luxury SUV that feels light on its feet, while still backing up its promise of a true premium experience. With butter-smooth engines from which to choose and a stately interior on all models, the X5 is impressive and well-rounded. There may be another luxury midsize crossover that better fits your needs, but there likely isn't a better benchmark for the class.

Now in its fourth generation, the X5 was redesigned completely for the 2024 model year. That means there are only minor changes for the 2025 version. But that’s not a bad thing. The X5 offers a turbocharged inline-six base engine, an upgraded twin-turbo V8, or an advanced plug-in hybrid variant. There is also the high-performance X5 M if you plan to hit the track.

All versions of the X5 provide a crisp driving experience, and they all make great use of space for both passengers and cargo. Seating is limited to five passengers in this generation, but the materials are befitting a class leader. In some cases, the upgraded upholstery and rich authentic glass and wood inside the cabin are downright opulent.

There are many SUVs to choose from in this class, but the X5 competes most directly with the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz GLE. All are solid options, but the X5 is the most fun to drive.

The Toyota Land Cruiser arrived in the late 1950s as a competitor to established 4X4s such as the rudimentary Willys (Jeep) CJ-2A as well as the International Scout. But in the decades since, the Land Cruiser has evolved into a four-door, four-wheel-drive wagon — ratcheting up the luxury and off-road capability with each new generation. The last version of the legendary Land Cruiser nameplate we saw ended production in 2021. It was a premium machine with many unique mechanical components, and it cost close to $100,000. The all-new 2024 Land Cruiser cuts that price in half, making it more appealing to four-wheel-drive enthusiasts shopping for a new adventure vehicle. For those looking for more luxury in a similar package, the Lexus GX 550 shares much with the new Land Cruiser.

The modern Land Cruiser is smaller than the old model (losing the optional third-row seat), and is built with a personality that’s far less posh. It rides on the same chassis system as the recently redesigned Toyota Tacoma and Toyota 4Runner, with a truck-like body-on-frame design using an independent front suspension and coil sprung solid axle in the rear. Every model has a standard locking rear differential to help maximize traction, and some models offer a disconnecting front sway bar to help free up some wheel travel and provide more ride comfort when driving off-road.

Toyota ditched the old, thirsty V8 for a four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with slightly less horsepower but even more torque. Toyota says the new Land Cruiser will deliver 23 mpg in combined city and highway driving. That’s almost 10 mpg better than the old model.

The Land Cruiser may have a modern powertrain and chassis, but the design harkens back to the boxy Land Cruisers of old drawing, with particular inspiration from the popular FJ60 wagons. The modern twist should appeal to many loyalists as well as new customers looking for an SUV that exudes off-road authenticity, such as the Jeep Wrangler, Land Rover Defender, and Ford Bronco — all of which offer serious trail capability.

However unlike some of those models, the Land Cruiser promises to be one of the most well-behaved on paved roads, where most of these SUVs will spend their time.

We'll soon have complete driving impressions and an evaluation of how the new Cruiser works on road and off. But based upon what we know so far, the Land Cruiser is a promising comeback for the iconic model.

Cadillac introduced the XT6 in 2020, adding a three-row option to the luxury brand's lineup that is overall smaller and considerably less expensive than the flagship Escalade. The XT6 features elegant styling with familiar design cues that fit nicely with the rest of the Cadillac lineup. Three well-equipped trims are offered for XT6 shoppers, available with front-wheel or all-wheel drive.

The XT6 has a comfortable interior with good passenger space in all seat rows. The 8-inch touchscreen display integrated into the dash is smaller than in most competitors, but its large icons make it intuitive and easy to use. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connect wirelessly, and the XT6 is available with a premium 14-speaker Bose audio system. Seating for seven is standard, with optional second-row captain's chairs dropping it to six.

Interior materials are nice, but they don't meet the level of luxury expected of a Cadillac. The finish feels subpar compared to rivals such as the BMW X5, Lincoln Aviator, Mercedes-Benz GLE, or even the Hyundai Palisade.

All XT6 trim levels come with the latest advanced driver-assist systems, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-change alert, rear cross-traffic alert, and follow distance indicator. Higher-level trims of the XT6 can be equipped with Cadillac's Super Cruise driver-assist system that allows hands-free driving on specific roads that meet certain conditions.

Now into its second year of the latest design, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia packs plenty of capability into a handsome, full-size SUV. And this is no crossover masquerading as an SUV; the Sequoia shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Tundra full-size truck. That means the Sequoia has a study frame underneath, multiple suspension options, and plenty of power under the hood. There's no longer a V8 available, but the standard twin-turbo V6 delivers 437 horsepower and competitive gas mileage. It's a hybrid system, so there's an electric motor that provides an extra punch of torque that you can feel. A 10-speed automatic handles the shifting duties, and four-wheel-drive models add a two-speed transfer case for maximum control during off-roading at slow speeds. There's a TRD Off-Road package for added capability, or for drivers who like to go even farther off the beaten path, there's a TRD Pro version with a fully retuned suspension, slow-speed crawl control, and meaty off-road tires. The cabin is practical and comfortable on lower level trims, while the flagship Capstone gets luxurious leather seats and real wood trim. Three rows of seating is standard, with the higher level trims offering second-row captain's chairs in place of a bench seat. The Sequoia benefits from Toyota's latest infotainment technology, which provides wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with a 14-inch display screen that comes standard on all but the base SR5 trim. All Sequoias come standard with a full array of safety technology that includes features such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot assist.

The competing Chevrolet Tahoe is priced lower but has no hybrid engine. The Ford Expedition also has a lower starting price. The Nissan Armada is cheaper as well, but has a less attractive interior and a less refined ride.

We don't typically think of Audi as a bargain brand. But relative to its traditional three-row luxury SUV rivals, the 2025 Audi Q7 is a bit of an underrated value. It measures up to its BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS peers with a high quality interior, coddling ride comfort, comparable advanced tech and safety features, and a European pedigree. But it does it for much less than either of its German peers — about 30% less than the Mercedes — while sacrificing little in return.

The Q7 seats seven and comes with a gutsy turbocharged four-cylinder engine. It's nimble and quick, agile enough to please even discerning enthusiast drivers. Those seeking a bit more vitality can upgrade to the optional turbo V6 engine, capable of reaching 60 mph in fewer than 6 seconds.

For 2025, the Q7 gets a good scrub with restyled front and rear ends, including new grille and light designs. The updated look should give the Q7 more visual swagger alongside its more recently refreshed rivals, and carry it through to its next incarnation as a fully electric or hybrid electric SUV. Audi has pledged to introduce only electric vehicles after 2026.

And while the Q7 sacrifices little, it does ultimately give up something, namely size. Slightly larger than a typical midsize SUV, the Q7 is still 5 to 6 inches shorter than the X7 or GLS, offering less cargo space and less expansive third-row accommodations.

But the Q7 offers performance and utility equal to or better than similarly sized and priced rivals like the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90.

The Range Rover is the top model in Land Rover’s SUV lineup and it’s been that way since the British brand landed in the U.S. in the late 1980s. The Range Rover was all-new last year and has proven to be supremely popular for those shopping for the ultimate luxury SUV. Buyers are immediately attracted to its smooth, tasteful, and modern exterior design. The Range Rover makes an impression wherever it goes.

The Range Rover is a pleasure to spend time in, primarily because of its gorgeous interior. The soft leather and beautiful wood finishes combine with the almost minimalist interior design to create an elegant and upscale environment. If the standard fitments feel too plain, Range Rover has plenty of ways to make the interior even more posh.

But the best part about the Rover is the drive experience. Yes, it still has the traditional upright and commanding driving position that has been its trademark for decades. It helps make driving such a big machine relatively easy and gives a tremendous view ahead. On the open road or around town, the Range Rover expertly delivers a smooth and isolated ride thanks to the adjustable air-ride suspension. And yet, its sophisticated roll control system makes the handling quite sharp for a vehicle this tall and heavy. Of course, don’t expect this machine to tackle curves with the athleticism of a Porsche Cayenne or Lamborghini Urus. The Range Rover is just too large, soft, and heavy. The company offers several powertrains ranging from a turbocharged six-cylinder hybrid with 395 horsepower up to a 606-hp V8 on the top SV models. The V8's power is intoxicating. It makes passing lesser machines effortless on a long freeway cruise. Plus, it’s nearly silent, even when you dig deep into the throttle. But for most buyers, the standard six-cylinder offers plenty of pace. Many eco-conscious Range Rover buyers are waiting for the fully electric EV model to launch. It’s coming this year and will ride on its own distinct chassis, but details are not yet available.

The Range Rover is a seriously capable off-roader, too. The soft suspension has gobs of travel, meaning it can absorb large ruts and bumps without transferring discomfort to the cabin. Raise the suspension to its max height and you'll have almost a foot of ground clearance. Once locked into low-range four-wheel drive, the Range Rover can handle even the toughest of trails. The four-wheel steering helps here, too. Plus, it can ford nearly 3 feet of water. But if you’re going to make a habit of off-roading a Range Rover, consider swapping the tires for ones with a meatier tread. Regardless, the Rover crushes the Mercedes Benz GLS and BMW X7 when it comes to off-road capability.

Want to be driven instead of driving? Opting for the SV model’s Signature Suite gains an even more sumptuous cabin and private jet-like accommodations. If the Range Rover’s duties are more family oriented, the long-wheelbase models with a third-row seat will make every elementary school carpooler jealous.

Full-size luxury SUVs like the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS are for drivers who need transportation with plush accommodations and boundless room for passengers and cargo. The three-row GLS is part of a competitive segment that includes desirable candidates such as the BMW X7, Land Rover Range Rover, Cadillac Escalade, and Lincoln Navigator. The models in this class have amenities designed to move families in comfort and opulence, whether it's a short commute to school or a long road trip to a vacation house.

Potency is the name of the game with the GLS. Its base six-cylinder engine, found in the GLS 450, provides 375 horsepower, so there's more than enough muscle to move this large SUV with haste. The powertrain range includes choices with up to 603 horses, making the GLS a top pick in its class for drivers seeking quick acceleration.

That robust engine lineup is matched by driving dynamics that give this Mercedes an air of nimbleness and refinement. It's a responsive companion that feels smaller than a full-size SUV when you're behind the wheel. Topping things off is a cabin that combines spaciousness with the ritzy design you expect from a vehicle bearing the Mercedes-Benz nameplate. Though rivals like the Escalade have bigger interiors with more cargo space, the GLS is plenty roomy, with adult-friendly seating in all three rows.

Buick is at its best when it embraces the identity that made it famous. The 2024 Buick Enclave is a perfect example, a spacious three-row SUV with a quiet cabin, a soft ride with alert handling, and a classic, subtle design that doesn't crave attention. It also adds a generous measure of SUV utility with vast cargo capacity that ranks among the best in class. And while a cushy, isolated ride won't be every driver's idea of a thrill, the Enclave leans into this signature Buick quality, going as far as offering standard active noise cancellation and an optional adaptive suspension with hydraulic dampers.

Buick's comfort emphasis has earned it a reputation as stodgy and conservative, but there's nothing boring about blunting the edge of a hectic commute, particularly with six passengers — some likely very young — aboard. The Enclave's V6 is one of the heartiest among premium three-row SUVs, giving it ample acceleration and average towing ability. But it's also thirsty and the Enclave's rating of 21 mpg for combined city and highway driving isn't impressive next to its rivals.

The Enclave is also more expensive than newer competitors such as the Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade, yet isn't quite as nice from the driver's seat. The Enclave costs significantly less than the latest luxury three-row entry, the Genesis GV80, however, and less even than the Acura MDX. While it's not the most expensive premium three-row SUV, it's expensive for what you get. But for drivers who need maximum space and maximum calm, it may be worth it.

Jeep has been delivering handsome and capable SUVs for decades. But one model missing from the lineup was a traditional full-size, eight-passenger SUV that can tow heavy loads and tackle off-road trails. We’re talking about a big boy, larger than the extended Jeep Grand Cherokee L. Two years ago Jeep brought back the Wagoneer nameplate on an SUV that matches large rivals such as the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe. The modern Jeep Wagoneer, however, is much more upscale than those rivals.

The big Jeep offers a standard 420-horsepower twin-turbocharged six-cylinder engine that moves the 3-ton SUV with ease. The powerful engine is quiet and delivers the torque needed to handle long freeway grades, even when loaded with passengers and gear. Drivers looking for even more power can opt for the luxurious Jeep Grand Wagoneer (reviewed separately). It comes standard with 510 hp. And it’s very quick.

The base two-wheel-drive Wagoneer may be a good value, but it isn’t the best example of this breed. The most capable and Jeep-like experience requires four-wheel drive. But take note: Three different four-wheel-drive systems are available. Only Quadra Trac II and Quadra Drive II offer the traction to handle more than a snowy road. To maximize comfort and capability, opt for the supple-riding adjustable air suspension, too. It can increase ground clearance to 10 inches or go lower to allow easier access to the cabin. Need more room than the standard model? The L version delivers nearly 15 cubic feet more space behind the third row. That's equal to the trunk space in a typical midsize sedan.

The Wagoneer's cabin is inviting and comfortable, filled with high-quality materials. Even the least-expensive Series 1 model includes leather seating, heated and cooled front passenger seats, and a 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen. The top models offer exceptional luxury, including a powerful McIntosh sound system, upgraded leather, and second-row captain’s chairs.

Priced at the top of the segment, the 2024 Jeep Wagoneer is more expensive than the Expedition and Tahoe. But neither is as posh as the Jeep. Consider the GMC Yukon if you want something a bit ritzier. The Infiniti QX80 is priced closer to the Wagoneer, but it has a lower tow rating and is less capable off-road.

The 2024 Ford Expedition accommodates as many as eight people in comfort, with sumptuous seating and plenty of room for luggage and gear. Although based on the best-selling Ford F-150 pickup, the Expedition doesn't feel like a truck. In fact, its ride is so plush it is often used in limousine service. The extended-wheelbase Expedition MAX provides even more cargo space behind its third row of seats. The Expedition's well-designed interior is filled with tech, including a giant infotainment display screen. It is powered by a turbocharged V6 engine, giving it significantly better fuel economy than its V8-powered rivals. Despite its imposing size, the SUV is easier to drive than may be expected. It manages city streets and parking lots in stride, and on the highway, it makes miles melt away painlessly.

The Ford Expedition's most formidable competitor is the Chevrolet Tahoe. The two vehicles have been going head-to-head for decades now. The GMC Yukon, a Tahoe cousin in the GM family, is another key competitor. Two years ago, Stellantis' Jeep brand entered the fray with its modern Jeep Wagoneer model. And the 2023 Toyota Sequoia was completely redesigned to better challenge the large-SUV rivals.

When a Cadillac Escalade is a little too fancy for your full-size SUV needs, but the Chevrolet Tahoe a little too plain, the 2024 GMC Yukon splits the difference. GMC infuses Chevy's humble full-size SUV with a bit more luxury and style, but retains its massive interior space and potent towing ability. It also stays several thousands under the Escalade's price.

All three SUVs are built on the same foundation and provide similar performance. The Yukon's three engine choices — two V8s and a V6 diesel — deliver enough grunt to tow 7,700 to 8,400 pounds, while the standard and optional air suspensions mask the Yukon's truck roots. The quiet and cavernous interior can seat up to nine passengers and cargo space is larger than in any of the Yukon's rivals.

The Yukon's price makes it a hard sell, though. The lower trims start around $5,000 more than equivalent Tahoe trims, but come with the same basic features. Moving up to the Denali and Denali Ultimate trims gets into Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and even Land Rover Range Rover territory — all high-class options with comparable power and towing capacity. GMC's mid-trim Yukon SLT, with a few options, hits the sweet spot of value, style, and performance.

The 2024 Lincoln Navigator has a lot going for it. If you're in the market for a fancy, full-size three-row luxury SUV, the Navigator stands out for its powerful V6 engine and abundant space for both passengers and cargo. Its large center touchscreen uses the Sync 4 operating system, which is among our favorites for its clarity and responsiveness. Some models also offer the hands-free driving aid known as Lincoln Blue Cruise (previously called ActiveGlide).

Lincoln saves its finest materials for the inside of the Navigator, particularly on the opulent Black Label versions — some even come with massaging rear seats and laser-engraved designs on the open-pore wood dashboard. Cargo space is also a plus. The Navigator offers an impressive 19.3 cubic-feet of storage space behind the third row of seats, and extended Navigator L versions boast a massive 34.3 cubic feet. That's plenty of room for carrying oversized luggage or sports equipment and camping gear. Some competitors do offer more, however.

Whether you opt for the Navigator or the extended Navigator L, this is one large SUV. It takes up a lot of space on the road and when pulling into tight parking spots. But the Navigator is relatively nimble compared to many rivals. Its steering feels light and accurate, especially considering it can weigh up to 3 tons. It also feels smooth on the road, thanks to consistent power from the engine and an adept 10-speed automatic transmission. Even base models come with an adaptive suspension that adjusts to different road conditions on the fly.

Lincoln issued a hefty refresh for the 2022 Navigator, and the 2024 model will likely be the last one before a redesign arrives. So if you like what the Navigator has to offer and don't want to wait for a complete overhaul, the 2024 model should be on your shopping list. We expect the next-generation Navigator to arrive for the 2025 model year.

You don't need to look far to find capable, high-performance SUVs. But you won't find many like the 2025 Audi SQ7. With its potent 500-horsepower V8 engine, luxury trimmings, and standard third row, the SQ7 is a bit of a unicorn. A standard air suspension helps match the SQ7's prodigious power to tight, controlled handling, without turning the ride into a jarring paint mixer.

Standard all-wheel steering helps the SUV handle better than its size suggests. For even more precision, the optional S Sport package adds an upgraded rear differential and electric motors on each axle that actively suppress body roll.

Performance isn't the SQ7's only dimension, though. The interior is impeccably assembled and well-appointed with features such as diamond-stitched leather seats, massaging front seats, and a Bang & Olufsen surround-sound audio system. A sharp-looking infotainment touchscreen is one of three main displays up front, although at 10 inches, it's a little small by today's standards. And it's debatable whether the SQ7's dedicated display for climate controls and functions is merited.

Still, the SQ7 has few rivals that check the same boxes. The BMW X7 M60i also has three rows and a muscular V8, but it's larger and substantially pricier. The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 is a little smaller and offers an optional third row, but lacks the SQ7's performance hardware and pedigree.

The Cadillac Escalade is suitably potent and refined, but its capabilities are largely limited to straight-line performance. Nearer competitors are smaller two-row SUVs like the BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo, or electric alternatives like the Tesla Model X Plaid or Rivian R1S. Ultimately, the SQ7 occupies its own niche as a wickedly quick family hauler that doesn't skimp on speed or style.

The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer’s understated exterior design doesn’t offer any clues to the opulence that awaits passengers inside. This is one very, well, grand three-row SUV. Although Jeep isn’t known as a luxury brand, this heavyweight competes well against the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. It’s not, however, quite as lavish as a Land Rover Range Rover.

Click the shifter knob to Drive and, with a very light touch on the gas pedal, the Grand Wagoneer's torque-rich twin-turbocharged inline-six smoothly accelerates the large SUV with minimal fuss. Most of the time you won’t notice the engine or transmission at work. And for many buyers, that’s exactly as it should be in a luxury vehicle. Floor that throttle pedal and the 3-ton Jeep is very quick. No need to fret about passing on the freeway. But the best part about the Grand Wagoneer’s drive experience is the ride. It’s very smooth and refined, thanks to the standard air suspension. The Grand Wagoneer also comes with the top-level Quadra-Drive II four-wheel-drive system which provides a distinct edge over competitors whose SUVs are not meant for off-roading. Thanks to its low range, electronic limited-slip rear differential, and the suspension’s ability to raise the body up high, the Grand Wagoneer can travel surprisingly difficult terrain.

Time spent behind the wheel on longer trips passes quickly in the Grand Wagoneer. Not only is the interior quiet but it’s also fitted with upscale materials. Touch the dash, door panel, or center console and you'll feel rich leather. Need more room for the adventure? The stretched Grand Wagoneer L model provides a larger cargo hold and even more space for third-row passengers.

The tech equipment in the Grand Wagoneer is impressive. Even the least expensive model includes nearly all of the available safety equipment. And in terms of comfort and convenience, the front-seat passenger gets a screen for accessing certain apps and features without distracting the driver. Smart. The Grand Wagoneer is not inexpensive. Pricing starts just under $93,000. That’s about the same cost of a midlevel Cadillac Escalade. Our top-spec and option-laden Series III test vehicle stickered for $115,000. A low-level Land Rover Range Rover is available for that price. Drivers looking to save a few bucks can have a nearly grand experience with the less expensive Jeep Wagoneer.

The redesigned 2024 Lexus GX launches with a muscular stance that recalls the off-road capability of iconic Toyota Land Cruisers of the past. Based on the same platform that underpins the Lexus LX 600 SUV as well as the reincarnated 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, it's built with bona fide off-road credentials.

While dealer lots are full of crossover SUVs that look like off-roaders, the all-new GX doesn't share DNA with a midsize family sedan. With a new rugged-looking, square-shouldered design, the GX comes with an off-road-capable kit that's built in, not bolted on. Included with the third-generation GX reboot is a lighter but tougher frame, a more powerful, torque-rich twin-turbo 3.4-liter V6, and a more efficient 10-speed automatic transmission. A modern suspension, more powerful brakes, and sharper steering also aid an impressive 9,000-pound towing capacity.

This year the Overtrail and Overtrail+ join the lineup. These purpose-built off-road models have increased ground clearance, 33-inch all-terrain tires, lockable center and rear differentials, and other off-road tech to challenge the Land Rover Defender and versions of the Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2024 GX also gets the latest in advanced driver-assist systems and entertainment technology with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0 and Lexus Interface infotainment system.

Although available at launch with the V6 gas engine, the GX will debut a hybrid version later in the year.