Full Size SUVs with Best Gas Mileage

It's surprising that it has taken Lexus this long to arrive at the three-row luxury SUV party, but the 2025 Lexus TX, now in its second year of production, makes up for lost time with a big, roomy interior, a bundle of tech and driver safety features, and a trio of gas, electric, and rechargeable powertrains. Its combination of capabilities makes it something of a unicorn, especially its hybrid options.

Slotting above the popular RX, the TX bridges the gap between that midsize crossover and the larger, truck-boned LX, itself a cushier three-row version of the Toyota Land Cruiser. Lexus attempted a smaller three-row option with the RX-L, an extended body built on the standard RX's wheelbase. It offered only an extra 6 inches of overall length, which made for a cramped third row and not much cargo space.

The TX solves those problems with a longer wheelbase, plenty of legroom in both rear rows, and more cargo space than its competitors, regardless of how the seating is configured. The TX seats seven in standard configuration, but second-row captain's chairs and a rear center console are available if you don't mind reducing capacity to six. Either way, the third-row seat is no penalty box, but rather a relatively spacious area where two adults can stretch out comfortably.

A full complement of in-car tech includes a 14-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and more than a dozen standard driver-assist features. Highlights under the hood include a standard four-cylinder engine that quickly reaches its limits trying to motivate this big SUV. The 366-horsepower hybrid is better suited to the job, or you can opt for the 404-hp, V6-based plug-in hybrid that gets up to 29 mpg combined and generates up to 33 miles of electric range.

This versatility puts the TX up against an interesting array of competitors, ranging from gas-only rivals like the Acura MDX, Lincoln Aviator, and Volvo XC90 to hybrid and plug-in hybrids like the XC90 Recharge, BMW X5, and Mercedes-Benz GLE. And with a starting price of around $56,000, the TX should appeal to a wide swath of SUV buyers.

The midsize Cadillac XT6 lives in the supersized shadow of the premium brand’s flagship, the considerably larger and more expensive Escalade. The enormous Escalade may be the more popular of the two, but the three-row XT6 is the better choice for most families. Cadillac’s largest crossover slots above the XT4 and XT5 in the brand’s growing SUV lineup. Although it was last refreshed in 2020, the XT6 remains properly handsome, without too much bling, and its ride comfort is as good as it gets in this class. It also delivers a premium experience with a plush interior, intuitive tech, and good passenger space. Seating for seven is standard, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing it to six.

When it comes to swank, however, the Cadillac’s cabin materials and finishes fall short of the Genesis GV80 and Lincoln Aviator. Though well-placed and easy to use, its 8-inch touchscreen is the smallest in this class. Cadillac does include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and we were impressed by the excellent sound quality of the SUV's premium 14-speaker Bose audio system.

The XT6 doesn't drive as sporty as the BMW X5, Mercedes-Benz GLE, or Acura MDX, but it is powerful enough for most buyers. This year, the XT6 is available with GM’s Super Cruise driver-assist system that allows hands-free driving on specific roads that meet certain conditions. In this class, only the Lincoln Aviator is also available with similar autonomous driving technology.

For over six decades, the Toyota Land Cruiser has expertly blended highway civility with off-road capability. Land Cruisers are the vehicle of choice for many overlanders looking to explore the backcountry when they need a reliable vehicle that can carry people and their gear through just about any terrain. The latest generation launched as an all-new model last year, bringing more affordability and efficiency to the Land Cruiser line.

The previous-generation Land Cruiser, which left us in 2021, was equipped with a thirsty but powerful V8 engine. This one uses a new 2.4-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque paired with an eight-speed automatic. And like every Land Cruiser that's ever put a tire on U.S. soil, there's a competent 4WD system to take the driver and passengers deep into the rough. The Land Cruiser's body-on-frame construction is like that of a traditional SUV, with an independent suspension up front and a less sophisticated but durable solid axle in the rear. Smooth riding coil springs are at each corner, making this SUV comfortable on almost any street or trail. Lock the rear differential, shift the Land Cruiser into Low Range, and disconnect the front swaybar — the Land Cruiser becomes one very talented SUV in the dirt.

This Land Cruiser's less expensive price point means it will attract more buyers with its off-roading skills. For those looking to combine the Land Cruiser's dirt chops with a bit more luxury, power, and tow capacity, the Lexus GX 550 offers a similar package at a higher price.

The Land Cruiser is smaller and lighter than the previous-generation V8 models, but there's still plenty of room for five people. Because the SUV is a bit shorter and the hybrid system's battery pack takes up some cargo space, there's no room for a third row of seats.

Outfitted with soft-touch materials and modern tech, the modern Toyota has the drivetrain controls placed around the shifter, so everything you need is right at your fingertips. The $57,900 base price of the 1958 model provides skills in the dirt thanks to the standard electronic locking rear differential, Crawl Control (like an off-road cruise control system), and an 8-inch touchscreen with camera. The $63,900 Land Cruiser grade adds more lux and capability, including an electronic swaybar disconnect system for enhanced off-roading, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and rectangular LED headlights.

The 2025 Land Cruiser might have modern mechanicals, but the exterior design harkens back to the cool Land Cruiser FJ60 wagons of the 1980s. The whole package should catch the eye of anyone cross-shopping authentically capable SUVs like the Ford Bronco, Jeep Wrangler, or Land Rover Defender.

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 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a full-size luxury SUV that delivers on all the touchpoints buyers in this upper price class want. A large vehicle with three rows of seating, the GLS can accommodate seven passengers with the standard second-row bench seat or six with optional captain’s chairs. The good news is that adults of all sizes will find comfort in either seating configuration.

SUVs competing against this Mercedes-Benz are not short on space, style, luxury, or power. There are several great choices, such as the ultra-luxe Land Rover Range Rover and the extra-large Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The GLS’ most direct challenger is the BMW X7, which offers many of the same strengths as the Mercedes-Benz but with a bit more driving poise. But for many buyers in this segment, it’s the legendary class, style, and pampering of a Mercedes-Benz that wins out.

Those opting for the three-pointed star will not be disappointed. That’s especially true when it comes to the Mercedes SUV's powerful engine lineup. Even the base GLS 450 delivers a respectable 375 horsepower from a smooth inline-six cylinder. The GLS 580 gets a substantial bump in accelerative force with 510 hp. That means 60 mph arrives in the mid-5-second range. But the top model in terms of thrust is the startlingly quick AMG GLS 63, which drops 2 seconds from that acceleration time. On a vehicle that weighs 3 tons, that’s a wild experience and perhaps the ultimate way to get the kiddie carpool to school on time. The downside, of course, is always the price: The AMG starts near $150,000. But the ultimate GLS in terms of price and poshness is the Maybach GLS 600. This exclusive model can easily top $200,000.

The GLS delivers its speed with plenty of comfort, too, thanks to the standard adjustable air suspension, which provides a creamy ride. The optional E-Active Body Control system scans the road ahead for potholes and softens the suspension so passengers don’t feel a thing. The GLS is a capable machine on a twisty road, too. The more you move up in power and price, the more fun and interesting this SUV becomes.

Much like its distant rival, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the 2025 Land Rover Range Rover has transcended its roots to become a cultural icon. The G-Class' boxy shape hints at its former military utility, but today it's a pop star favorite. Likewise, the Range Rover — itself derived from a military lineage — brought luxury to the outdoors, its owners keen to exploit its capabilities in the rolling countryside.

Today you're more likely to see Range Rovers ranging over pavement than mountain passes. It's too bad, since a Rover is arguably today's most capable luxury SUV off-road. Its adjustable air suspension shakes off the jostling from roots and ruts, and can rise to offer nearly 12 inches of ground clearance. Four-wheel drive and four-wheel steering help negotiate the toughest trails, and it can pass through almost 3 feet of water. But we get it. These are expensive machines and not every owner appreciates the scars of hard-fought trail victories.

For them, the Range Rover is still a magnificent place to battle the urban landscape. Soft leather and beautiful wood finishes combine with minimalist design for a lush and elegant cabin. It retains its signature upright and commanding driving position, offering excellent visibility and easing the work of piloting the Rover around town. And despite its advanced body roll control, this is still a large, heavy SUV that can't tackle curves like alternatives including the Porsche Cayenne and Lamborghini Urus.

You don't get a Range Rover for the curves, though. You get it for its sheer presence, which includes its trio of powertrains: a robust six-cylinder, two grades of V8, and a plug-in hybrid with up to 51 miles of electric range. A full-electric version is in the works, too. And, if you don't mind a few bruises, you get a Range Rover for its ability in the rough, which dominates over competitors like the Mercedes Benz GLS, BMW X7, and, at the top end, the Bentley Bentayga.

Buyers dreaming of a three-row Jeep SUV had their wishes answered when Jeep recently revived a classic nameplate and slapped it on a big, roomy, and, of course, off-road-capable SUV. The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer debuted three years ago to challenge big family SUVs like the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe, offering more room than the Grand Cherokee L with its optional third row and exorcising memories of Jeep's disappointing three-row Commander from more than a decade ago.

This modern Jeep Wagoneer is a surprisingly upscale SUV, built not only to outmatch its Ford and Chevy rivals, but offer an alternative to pricier Lexus GX, Infiniti, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Cadillac SUVs. The cabin is covered in high-quality leather and trim, and comes with luxe appointments like heated and cooled front seats, reclining rear seats, and a heated steering wheel even in the base trim. Top models take it a step further with upgraded leather, optional second-row captain's chairs and a powerful McIntosh sound system.

Underhood there's a turbocharged six-cylinder engine that moves the 3-ton SUV with ease and generates more towing power than anything in its class. Rear-wheel drive is standard, but exploiting the Wagoneer's full capabilities requires the optional Quadra Trac II or Quadra Drive II four-wheel-drive systems. The optional adjustable air suspension is also a nice touch, delivering a supple ride and the ability to rise for 10 inches of ground clearance, or "kneel" closer to the ground for easier cabin entry and exit.

Buyers who want even more room can look to the extended wheelbase Wagoneer L model, which adds about 15 more cubic feet of cargo space — about the size of a typical midsize sedan's trunk — behind any of its three rows. Drivers seeking even more power can opt for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer (reviewed separately), which offers the same luxury with a very powerful, and very quick, 510-horsepower engine. There's even a new all-electric Wagoneer S, reviewed separately.

Starting at around $60,000 and reaching north of $80,000, the Wagoneer isn't your typical budget-oriented Jeep built for outdoor fun, with concessions to daily driveability. This is a Jeep that can carry a family in plush, quiet comfort on the highway, but scramble a trail or fire road to reach another distant ribbon of asphalt. It's more expensive than the Expedition and Tahoe and nicer and more capable than both. On the other hand, it costs less than similarly luxurious options like the Infiniti QX80, which can't tow as much and isn't as capable off-road. With its combination of refinement and capability, the Jeep Wagoneer is in a niche of its own.

The redesigned 2025 GMC Yukon continues its role as an upgrade from its workhorse Chevrolet Tahoe counterpart and a stepping stone to the opulence of the Cadillac Escalade. That's the marketing theory, anyway. In reality, the Tahoe and Yukon are so similar in specs and features that buyers largely choose on style and price.

For 2025, the Yukon looks a little more muscular, taking cues from the Sierra pickup with its taut creases and character lines, most noticeably in the grille and the rear lower bumper. Changes are less subtle inside the cabin. The dash has been recast with a lower, flatter, and vaguely Audi-like design, then embedded with a massive touchscreen and updated Google-based infotainment system. Tech upgrades continue with new active safety features (among them, enhanced cyclist detection and automatic braking to help avoid intersection collisions) and the full-line availability of the Super Cruise hands-free driving system.

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 typically makes it a hard sell, though. GMC hasn't announced pricing yet, but the lower trims come with the same basic features as the equivalent Tahoes, but usually start around $5,000 higher. 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. The Yukon AT4 trim hits the sweet spot of value, features, and even some off-road performance (plus more if you want it), but it's harder to make a case for the higher trims given the competition.

The QX80 is Infiniti’s big, three-row luxury SUV, and it has been completely redesigned for 2025. It gets a fresh new look, an all-new powertrain, a long list of standard and optional features, a thoroughly updated interior, and bold new tech that actually makes it a player in the segment again.

The modernization begins under the hood where a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 produces 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque. That’s not only a massive increase over its predecessor, but more than everything in the segment except the Jeep Grand Wagoneer and Cadillac Escalade V. Sure enough, it provides smooth, effortless power, even when this big-ol’ SUV is loaded with people and stuff.

Most versions come equipped with an adaptive air suspension, but the resulting ride quality can be jarring and it’s hard not to wonder if the accompanying 22-inch wheels are to blame. The new interior is far more successful. The design is fresh, materials and construction top notch, and space has increased considerably. A pair of 14.3-inch screens showcase the instruments and infotainment, while a 9-inch touchscreen below handles climate functions. There’s also an available color head-up display. Google built-in contributes to this new system being easy to figure out.

All the changes, of which we just scratched the surface on, result in a luxury SUV that’s a more compelling alternative to the Escalade, Grand Wagoneer, Lincoln Navigator, and Lexus LX 600 [Lexus LX] (/lexus/lx). It’s still an alternative, though. The Cadillac and Lincoln are getting overhauls for 2025, which aren’t as extensive as the QX80’s, but include pillar-to-pillar interior displays that look beamed in from the future. We also think those American rivals are more comfortable and refined to drive. They’re a bit more expensive, which is another reason why the QX80 is a compelling alternative.

In 2019, Mercedes-Benz made headlines with the second-generation G-Class, marking the first redesign in decades of this recognizably boxy SUV. The designers kept the styling nearly identical to the original while engineers improved its driving manners and performance, and brought its technology in line with contemporaries.

Now, six years later, this second-generation G-Class receives some significant changes and upgrades. The big news is the introduction of an all-electric G 580 with EQ Technology, which is reviewed separately. For the returning internal combustion models, a new hybrid system, a more economical base six-cylinder engine, and aerodynamic alterations promise slightly improved efficiency. On the inside, the new infotainment system adds features and simplifies operation.

These changes address some of our previous complaints about the G-Class, but its price and lack of agility are likely to remain its biggest drawbacks. That said, it should still attract buyers looking to make a statement. Alternatives are limited and include the Land Rover Range Rover and Land Rover Defender, as well as the lower priced and recently redesigned Lexus GX. There are also some all-electric choices, including the Rivian R1S and a forthcoming Range Rover EV.

When Lincoln introduced the Navigator in 1997, it was the first full-size luxury SUV on the market and the first sport-ute to wear the Lincoln badge. The landscape has changed dramatically in the last 25 years, and now the Navigator is the flagship of a Lincoln lineup consisting exclusively of SUVs.

The Navigator never quite reached the success level of its chief rival, the Cadillac Escalade, which arrived on the scene just a few years after the Lincoln; however, the new 2025 Navigator should prove to be more of a challenge to the big Cadillac. In addition to its bold new looks, the new Navigator features an ultra-luxurious cabin decked out with high-quality materials and advanced technology. The updated Navigator should also compete well against smaller rivals like the Lexus LX, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Land Rover Range Rover.

Highlighting the interior is the expansive 48-inch panoramic display that spans the cabin and creates a modern, clean design. Almost all physical controls are gone — instead, there's an additional 11.1-inch touchscreen as well as the intuitive natural-voice Google Assistant voice interface. There's seating for up to eight passengers, but the first two rows get first-class treatment with heated, ventilated, and massaging seats available. The 14 USB ports ensure that everyone's device stays charged.

The Navigator is not just a luxury vehicle; it also delivers the goods as a full-size SUV. There's plenty of cargo space — especially in the extended-length Navigator L — and it can tow up to 8,700 pounds. There's no longer a V8 available; however, the twin-turbo V6 delivers plenty of power, and four-wheel drive is standard for 2025.

Customers can order the new Navigator this fall, with first deliveries expected next spring.

Ford entered the full-size SUV arena more than 25 years ago with the Expedition, and for 2025, the company's flagship SUV gets a significant update in style, capability, and technology, which should help elevate its position in this market.

Currently in its fourth generation (introduced in 2018), the 2025 Ford Expedition gets a fresh face, but that's perhaps the least noteworthy change for the new model year. Of more import is the updated interior that features dual display screens, including a new 24-inch panoramic digital display that replaces the traditional driver gauge cluster. This Expedition gets the new Ford Digital Experience Google-based infotainment system, which delivers an intuitive, easy-to-use experience.

The Expedition continues with two powerful twin-turbo EcoBoost engines, with the high-output version providing 440 horsepower. Teamed with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission, the 2025 Expedition should boast excellent performance, and when properly equipped, it can tow up to 9,600 pounds. Innovations in cargo-carrying capability are also introduced, including a new split rear hatch with a convenient tailgate. For added cargo-carrying ability, Ford offers the extended-length Expedition Max variant.

When the 2025 Expedition arrives early next year, it will be offered in four trim levels that, for the first time, includes the rugged, off-road Tremor. With standard four-wheel drive, exclusive Rock Crawl mode, 33-inch off-road tires, and 10.6 inches of ground clearance, the Tremor brings a new off-road capability to the Expedition lineup.

With its significant updates for the 2025 model year, the Expedition should prove to be quite competitive with the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Jeep Wagoneer, and newly redesigned Nissan Armada.

The 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer may look a little plain and frumpy, but its boxy, Jeep-y look hides a surprisingly opulent and cavernous interior, a server farm's worth of tech, and class-leading towing and off-road capability.

At nearly 18 feet long and 6,400 pounds, this Jeep is indeed grand. It's carried along on an air spring suspension by a stout turbo V6 engine that rarely feels winded or lacking in reserve power. Floor the throttle and this 3-ton SUV moves with authority, whether from a stop or while summoning power for passing on the highway. It's especially impressive given everything else the Grand Wagoneer is carrying: Ample passenger space in all three rows, multiple touchscreens and displays, a 19- or 23-speaker McIntosh audio system, and sumptuous Italian leather upholstery, something that still seems unthinkable in a Jeep.

The Grand Wagoneer's grandness inhibits tight, technical off-roading, but it's still a Jeep. With a two-speed transfer case, rear locking differential, and air suspension capable of raising itself to 10 inches of ground clearance, the Grand Wagoneer can handle a bit more challenging terrain than your average snowy incline or well-worn fire road. Its length and width limit its trail agility, but for the most part you'll have little trouble getting out to remote areas.

Most buyers won't be shopping the Grand Wagoneer for its off-road skill, though. It's a nice advantage over competitors, but class-leading 10,000-pound towing capacity might be an even bigger draw. And with its top-shelf interior, in-car tech, and multiple active safety features, the Grand Wagoneer offers an alternative to established luxury SUVs like the Cadillac Escalade, Lincoln Navigator, and GMC Yukon Denali. Like them, the Grand Wagoneer also comes in an extended-length version — the Grand Wagoneer L — that adds roughly two feet and roughly 15 cubic feet more cargo space.

Also like them, the Grand Wagoneer is not inexpensive. It starts at around $87,000 and reaches $112,000. A low-level Land Rover Range Rover is available for that price, as are other luxury options including the Mercedes-Benz GLS, BMW X7, Infiniti QX80 and Lexus LX 600. Finally, the less expensive Jeep Wagoneer is not quite as grand, but just as capable.

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.