Thanks to hybrid, diesel, and even fully electric power, driving a real SUV doesn’t mean a world of gas pump pain anymore. We’ve found the most fuel-efficient 4×4 SUVs to give you maximum capability with minimum fueling costs.
The line between crossover and SUV can be pretty blurry. Call us old-fashioned because we think of an SUV as having a frame that’s separate from the body of the vehicle. The suspension and body are bolted to that frame. It’s what gives the SUV its ruggedness — truck-like bones underneath that let it work hard.
Are there exceptions to that rule? Of course. So, we’ll call out the crossovers that can work just as hard as an SUV. Their credentials include off-road strength and high-capacity towing, but they don’t have a body-on-frame chassis.
Why do we need the separation? Because we believe that a hardcore SUV fulfills our heavy-duty towing and all-around utility demands. At the same time, that ruggedness comes at the cost of less impressive fuel economy.
We’ve used the EPA’s official fuel economy ratings to find the 12 SUVs that offer the best fuel economy and the go-anywhere traction of 4×4 or all-wheel drive (AWD). Some of these surprised us with their efficiency. And, the variety of powertrains on the list is impressive.
Here, we have the most fuel-efficient SUVs, ranked from worst to best, sorted by the EPA combined-cycle fuel economy rating.
(If trucks are more your thing, check out the 10 Most Fuel-Efficient 2024 4×4/AWD Pickups.)
The 12 Most Fuel-Efficient 2024 4×4 SUVs
12. Lexus GX 550 (17 MPG)
At long last, Lexus has finally completely redesigned the Lexus GX. It’s now called the GX 550, and it uses a thoroughly modern twin-turbo V6 along with the frame of the latest Lexus LX.
Despite the new design and boxy looks, it is still a rugged off-road body-on-frame SUV. Off-road dedicated hardware includes full-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, and Torsen locking and limited-slip center differential.
New this year is an Overtrail trim grade that includes an electronic locking rear differential, standard Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System sway bar unlocks, and forward and reverse Crawl Control off-road cruise control.
Powering the GX 550 is a 3.4L V6 that makes 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The transmission is a 10-speed automatic. This modern combination returns an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined city and highway driving.
2024 Lexus GX 550 Specs
- Engine: 3.4L twin-turbo V6
- Horsepower: 349 hp at 4,800 rpm
- Torque: 479 lb.-ft. at 2,000- 3,600 rpm
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic ECT
- Drive Type: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 9,096 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 15 / 21 / 17 mpg
- Range: 359 miles
11. Toyota 4Runner (17 MPG)
The 2025 Toyota 4Runner is set to arrive at Toyota dealers very soon, offering a completely new package with more efficient power. But until then, the 2024 model’s 4.0L V6 ends up near the thirstier end of this list. It’s a serious off-roader; 4×4 and Kinetic Dynamic Suspension are both offered, as is a locking rear differential.
The 4Runner comes in TRD special versions that add even more impressive off-road capability features, including tuned off-road shocks and springs.
The 4Runner comes with a V6 making 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Combined with a five-speed automatic, the Toyota is able to manage an EPA-estimated 16 mpg on city streets and 19 mpg on the open highway.
2024 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: Five-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 5,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 19 / 17 mpg
- Range: 391 miles
10. Ford Expedition / Lincoln Navigator (18 MPG)
The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator look like very different vehicles from the outside, and from behind the driver’s seat. But underneath, they’re nearly the same. That includes a fully boxed frame, which also underpins the F-150 — the bestselling pickup in the world.
Though they are body-on-frame, using aluminum for the bodywork trims some pounds off the two big SUVs, which can help save fuel. Instead of a V8, the pair uses 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 top-end trims, the Timberline and Stealth, develop as much horsepower as the Navigator: 440. All models, regardless of trim level, use a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Government fuel economy estimates for the lower trims of the four-wheel drive Expedition sit at 18 mpg in combined driving. According to the EPA, the heavier and higher-powered 4×4 Lincoln Navigator also returns 18 mpg.
2024 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 automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 9,200 lbs. (w/Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package)
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 22 / 18 mpg
- Range: 418 miles
9. Jeep Wagoneer / Grand Wagoneer Hurricane (19 MPG)
The acclaimed V8 engine from Stellantis will soon join the dodo bird as Dodge, RAM, and Jeep transition toward electrification. Assuming the mantle of heavy-duty hauler is an all-new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six dubbed the Hurricane. Two versions of the Hurricane will go into the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer.
The first variant of the twin-turbo engine will summon 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque, and a significant boost in fuel 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 power into play, and trailering capacity maxes out at 9,800 to 10,000 pounds.
The Grand Wagoneer is a serious luxury model with an effortlessly smooth powertrain boasting incredible capabilities and refinement. Low-range gearing, Selec-Terrain traction management, and an available electronically controlled air suspension with adjustable ride height are all part of the equation.
EPA estimates for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer Hurricane culminate at 19 mpg in combined highway and city driving.
2024 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 automatic
- Drive Type: AWD
- Max tow capacity: 9,800 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 16 / 23 / 19 mpg
- Range: 494 miles
8. Lexus LX 600 (19 MPG)
The luxury counterpart of the legendary Toyota Land Cruiser uses the same platform as the all-new Toyota Tundra. It also gets a version of the truck’s new powertrain: a 409-horsepower twin-turbo 3.4L V6 and 10-speed automatic. The Lexus LX underwent a complete redesign in 2022, so nothing has changed for this year.
In the LX 600, you’ll find full-time four-wheel drive, active height-adjustable suspension, and even crawl control. It doesn’t look like an off-roader, but don’t let the spindle grille fool you. This big ute can wheel.
It has an official estimate of 19 mpg overall.
2024 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 automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive Type: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 8,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 17 / 22 / 19 mpg
- Range: 401 miles
7. Ford Bronco 2-Door EcoBoost (20 MPG)
The first real competitor to the Jeep Wrangler in years, the Ford Bronco puts the Ford Ranger platform to good use. The stylish off-roader lets you remove the doors, the roof, and even the fenders. It also has automatic and manual transmission versions that give you the same fuel economy rating.
The shorter and lighter Bronco two-door gets the best fuel economy. It’s also the only one that offers the seven-speed stick with crawler gear.
Fitted with the 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder, Bronco offers 275 horsepower and 315 pound-feet on regular gas. It’ll manage 300 horsepower if you spend extra for premium fuel.
The mighty little engine will reward you with 20 mpg in combined city and highway driving.
2024 Ford Bronco 2-Door Specs
- Engine: 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 w/auto start-stop
- Horsepower: 300 hp at 5,700 rpm (premium fuel)
- Torque: 325 lb.-ft. at 3,400 rpm (premium fuel)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 3,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 20 / 21 / 20 mpg
- Range: 338 miles
6. Toyota Sequoia 4WD (20 MPG)
By and large, the all-new 2023 Sequoia offers a truly powerful driving experience. Bringing all that force to bear is an i-Force MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain that’s good for 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of twist. Part of that hybrid magic calls for a 48-horsepower electric motor sandwiched between the V6 and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The powerplant isn’t the only piece of modern tech in common with the Tundra pickup. The redesigned Sequoia sits on a modern body-on-frame chassis with a fully boxed frame also shared by the Tundra. Nonetheless, Toyota’s revamped SUV carries a beefy presence — and not just because it pushes the limit of every single parking space it occupies.
Do we miss the trusty V8? Yes, but the new Sequoia hybrid delivers more power, more torque, impressive fuel economy, and an overall better experience. Read our review of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia to learn more details and insights.
2024 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 automatic
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 9,120 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 19 / 22 / 20 mpg
- Range: 450 miles
5. Cadillac Escalade/GMC Yukon XL/ Chevrolet Tahoe/Chevrolet Suburban 3.0 Duramax Diesel (22 MPG)
Yes, that’s a lot of vehicles, all under one entry. While this gaggle of GM SUVs differs in looks and audience, they all share the same chassis.
GM’s big haulers can tow up to 8,000 pounds when fitted with the 3.0L 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 automatic helps make the most of that.
GM offers luxury models, family-friendly carriages, and even SUVs designed for work duty and off-roading, letting you pick one perfect for your needs. Whichever one suits your fancy, official estimates report 22 mpg for the diesel powerplant.
2024 GMC Yukon 4WD Specs
- Engine: 3.0L DOHC I-6 Duramax turbo-diesel
- Horsepower: 277 hp at 3,750 rpm (diesel fuel)
- Torque: 460 lb.-ft. at 1,500 rpm (diesel fuel)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic w/SelectShift
- Drive Type: Part-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 8,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 20 / 26 / 22 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Range: 528 miles
4. Toyota Land Cruiser (23 MPG)
The Toyota Land Cruiser is all-new for 2024, and it has ultra-cool retro looks meant to remind us of the classic Land Cruiser models that have come before it. However, despite the toy-car looks, this is still a real SUV. It has a frame underneath, full-time four-wheel drive, and locking front, rear, and center differentials.
It’s also a hybrid, with the Land Cruiser offering a 2.4L turbo-four-powered Hybrid Max system similar to what you’ll find in a Toyota Tacoma Hybrid pickup. The hybrid system helps give the new Land Cruiser better fuel economy. It also allows for camping-friendly features like a built-in 2,400W AC inverter in the cargo bay.
2024 Toyota Land Cruiser 4WD Specs
- Engine: i-FORCE MAX: 2.4L I4 Hybrid, turbocharged
- Horsepower: 326 hp at 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 465 lb.-ft. at 1,700 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Drive Type: Full-time 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 6,000 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 22 / 25 / 23 mpg
- Range: 412 miles
3. Jeep Wrangler 4xe (49 MPGe)
The ultimate off-roader with a plug. The Jeep Wrangler has been the king of factory off-road SUVs for decades, with only Ford’s Bronco attempting to wrestle away the crown.
Now the Wrangler offers more than just rugged capability, removable doors, and a top that can stay at home. The Wrangler 4xe lets you off-road silently, using only electricity.
A plug-in hybrid (PHEV), the 4xe combines an electric motor and a 2.0L turbo-four. The combined power output equals 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. Not to mention the ability to drive on electric power for up to 21 miles.
That’s enough to give Wrangler 4xe a miles-per-gallon equivalent of 49. It gets 20 mpg combined when the battery is empty.
Jeep also offers a 2.0L four-cylinder Wrangler that would have held this spot on our list of most fuel-efficient SUVs — if the hybrid didn’t exist — with a 23 mpg combined EPA rating.
2024 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 automatic
- Integrated transmission traction motor: 134 hp / 181 lb.-ft.
- Total powertrain output:
- Horsepower: 375 hp at 5,250 rpm
- Torque: 470 lb.-ft. at 3,000 rpm
- Drive Type: 4WD
- Max tow capacity: 3,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (MPGe/combined): 49 / 20 mpg (2022 EPA estimates)
- Range: 370 miles
2. Hummer EV SUV (53 MPGe)
The GMC Hummer EV SUV has taken longer than expected to make it to dealers, but now that it is here, it is an impressive accomplishment. It is a blend of frame and unibody design, like the Rivian you’ll see in the number one spot on this list. But it definitely has the ruggedness needed to make it a true SUV.
While more models with fewer motors and more towing capability will come later, the original Edition 1 is certainly no slouch. 830 horses from its three motors and crab-walk steering that lets it move diagonally to get in and out of tight spaces off-road for a start.
Plus, available packages to add beefier skid plates, electronically locking differentials, and even rocker protectors all contribute to the reborn Hummer’s abilities to get you places you’d never expect to find an EV.
2024 Hummer EV SUV (Edition 1) Specs
- Motor: 3 AC permanent magnet motor
- Horsepower: 830 hp
- Torque: N/A lb.-ft.
- Transmission: 1-Speed Automatic
- Battery pack: 170 kWh lithium-ion
- Drive Type: Dual-motor AWD
- Max tow capacity: 7,500 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 59 / 48 / 53 MPGe
- EV range: 314 miles
1. Rivian R1S Dual Max (82MPGe)
When the first Rivian R1S SUVs started shipping in 2022, the model was the only one of its kind on the market. Not 100% traditional, as the frame holds the electric battery and powertrain. But we say it still counts, as does 14.9 inches of ground clearance and up to 7,700 pounds of towing.
Rivian offers a three-motor Tri-Max model with 850 horsepower and 1,103 pound-feet of torque for those who want maximum attack, and it can manage an impressive 405-mile range.
The most efficient model, though, the one that tops this fuel economy list, is the twin-motor Dual Max. Its 533 horsepower and 610 pound-feet of torque manage an estimated 410-mile range.
Since GMC launched the Hummer EV SUV, the R1S is no longer the only EV SUV in town. But with 410 miles of range from a 149 kWh battery pack, it’s a lot more efficient. The Rivian’s big dose of high tech inside and underneath equates to 82 MPGe.
2024 Rivian R1S Specs
- Motor: 2 AC permanent magnet per wheel
- Horsepower: 533 hp
- Torque: 610 lb.-ft.
- Transmission: 1-Speed Automatic
- Battery pack: 149 kWh lithium-ion
- Drive Type: Dual-motor AWD
- Max tow capacity: 7,700 lbs.
- Fuel economy (city/hwy/combined): 89 / 76 / 82 MPGe
- EV range: 410 miles
The Most Fuel-Efficient Almost-SUVs
We know that discerning the distinctions between an SUV and a crossover are tough. That’s why we explained our methodology up top. But, we also understand that some crossovers seriously bridge the gap, like the unibody-constructed vehicles below.
These vehicles can tow as much as traditional body-on-frame SUVs, and some offer impressive off-road capabilities. So, here is a quick hit of the ones that we call “on the fence,” listed from good to remarkable for their fuel economy.
Land Rover Defender P400 (20 mpg): 18/23 city/highway. Both three-door 90 and five-door 110 models get the same economy in mild-hybrid 3.0L I6 trims.
Dodge Durango (21 mpg): 18/25 city/highway. The Durango offers one of the highest tow ratings of any crossover — up to 8,700 pounds — an impressive effort.
Hyundai Palisade/Kia Telluride (22 mpg): 19/27 city/highway. These two brutes are clearly trying to look like an SUV, even if they have a unibody chassis. Nevertheless, the 3.8L V6 does it right.
Ford Explorer (23 mpg): 20/27 city/highway. Brawny enough to tackle 5,000 pounds of trailer weight and have enough ground clearance to give it above-average off-road capability, the three-row Explorer manages towing and hauling duties with aplomb.
Nissan Pathfinder (23 mpg): 21/27 city/highway. The all-new Pathfinder can tow like an SUV — up to 6,000 pounds — even if it’s a crossover.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (56 MPGe): 26-mile all-electric range, 23 mpg combined. The plug-in Grand Cherokee can offer impressive fuel savings.
