Finding a largest SUV with best gas mileage requires navigating trade-offs between spaciousness and efficiency. Our selection criteria prioritizes vehicles with substantial interior volume and cargo capacity while delivering above-average fuel economy for their size class.
The SUV market has evolved dramatically, with manufacturers employing hybrid powertrains, diesel options, and advanced transmissions to improve efficiency. Today’s full-size SUVs with best fuel economy achieve 20-40% better mileage than their predecessors from just a decade ago.
This guide focuses on three-row options that combine family-friendly space with reasonable fuel consumption. We’ve included a mix of traditional gasoline, hybrid, and diesel powertrains to showcase different approaches to the best mpg full-size SUV challenge.
10 Biggest SUVs With Best Gas Mileage
#1: Toyota Highlander Hybrid – The Three-Row Efficiency Champion
The highest mpg full size SUV in the midsize-plus category is the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, delivering an impressive 36 MPG combined (35 highway/36 city) while offering three rows and 84.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space.
The Highlander Hybrid achieves this best fuel efficient large SUV status through a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with electric motors producing 243 total system horsepower. This powertrain delivers surprisingly responsive acceleration despite prioritizing efficiency.
Interior dimensions remain identical to the non-hybrid version, with no compromise in the 141.3 cubic feet of passenger volume. The third row accommodates children and smaller adults comfortably, though it’s less spacious than some competitors.
Toyota’s hybrid system adds approximately $1,400-2,000 over equivalent gas models but recoups this investment through approximately $650 annual fuel savings. The hybrid system is now available across most trim levels, making this fuel economy full size SUV option accessible at multiple price points.
The all-wheel-drive system maintains the 36 MPG combined rating, unusual among hybrids where AWD typically reduces efficiency. This makes the Highlander Hybrid particularly appealing in regions with winter weather conditions.
#2: Ford Explorer Hybrid – American-Made Size and Efficiency
Ford’s Explorer Hybrid achieves 27-28 MPG combined (29 highway/27 city with RWD), offering a full-size SUV with best gas mileage option from an American manufacturer. It delivers this efficiency while maintaining the Explorer’s generous 152.7 cubic feet of passenger volume.
Unlike most hybrids that sacrifice towing capacity, the Explorer Hybrid maintains a robust 5,000-pound rating identical to its non-hybrid V6 counterpart. This capability comes from its 3.3-liter V6 hybrid system producing a substantial 318 combined horsepower.
The Explorer’s efficiency advantage over its standard EcoBoost version is 4-5 MPG combined, delivering approximately $400-500 in annual fuel savings. The hybrid premium of approximately $3,000 means longer payback periods than some competitors.
Ford positioned this largest SUV with best mpg to require minimal compromise, with identical cargo capacity to non-hybrid models (18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 87.8 maximum). The battery placement beneath the passenger compartment preserves interior dimensions while improving weight distribution.
The Explorer Hybrid offers a rear-wheel drive option that maximizes efficiency, while the available intelligent 4WD system reduces combined economy by only 1 MPG – an impressive retention of efficiency when adding all-weather capability.
#3: Kia Telluride – Surprising Efficiency in a Full-Size Package
The Kia Telluride achieves 23-24 MPG combined (26 highway/20 city) without hybrid assistance, making it one of the most efficient conventional large SUVs with good mpg. It accomplishes this while offering 178.1 cubic feet of passenger volume across three spacious rows.
Kia’s award-winning SUV delivers this best mileage full size SUV performance through a naturally-aspirated 3.8-liter V6 paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The powertrain prioritizes smooth operation while delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
The Telluride’s efficiency comes partly from its relatively lightweight unibody construction and aerodynamic design despite its substantial dimensions. The front-wheel drive configuration maximizes efficiency, while AWD models lose only 1-2 MPG combined.
Interior space is class-leading, with adult-friendly third-row seating that offers 31.4 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity remains generous at 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet maximum, making it a true full size SUV gas mileage standout.
The Telluride’s efficiency-to-space ratio is particularly impressive considering its starting price approximately $6,000-12,000 below similarly sized luxury options, making it one of the most value-oriented entries on our list.
#4: Hyundai Palisade – Space and Economy Without Hybridization
The Palisade delivers 22-24 MPG combined (26 highway/19 city) using a conventional powertrain while offering 155.3 cubic feet of passenger volume. This best mpg large SUV competitor combines premium features with unexpected efficiency.
Hyundai achieves this fuel efficient full size SUV performance through an advanced 3.8-liter V6 featuring both direct and port injection. The engine produces 291 horsepower while maintaining efficiency through precise electronic valve timing and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Palisade’s aerodynamic profile contributes to its highway efficiency despite its substantial size. The front-wheel drive configuration optimizes fuel economy, while HTRAC all-wheel drive models sacrifice only 1-2 MPG combined.
Interior dimensions rival luxury models costing significantly more, with second-row legroom of 42.4 inches and a third row adults can use comfortably. The 18 cubic feet behind the third row expands to 86.4 cubic feet maximum, providing versatility for various cargo needs.
Recent updates have improved highway economy by approximately 1 MPG through subtle aerodynamic enhancements and transmission programming adjustments, demonstrating Hyundai’s commitment to continuous efficiency improvements in this large SUV with best gas mileage.
#5: Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel – The Full-Size Efficiency Surprise
The Tahoe Diesel achieves an impressive 24 MPG combined (28 highway/21 city) despite being a true body-on-frame full size SUV best mpg option. It delivers this efficiency while offering massive interior space measuring 178.1 cubic feet across three rows.
This fuel economy full size SUV champion utilizes a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six producing 277 horsepower and a substantial 460 lb-ft of torque. The diesel powerplant is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission optimized for efficiency and towing performance.
The diesel option provides approximately 7 MPG combined improvement over the standard 5.3-liter V8 gasoline engine. This translates to about 30% better fuel economy while maintaining a 8,200-pound towing capacity and full-size SUV capability.
Interior accommodations remain identical to other Tahoe models, with a truly adult-friendly third row offering 34.9 inches of legroom. Cargo capacity is exceptional at 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row and a massive 122.9 cubic feet maximum.
The diesel engine carries approximately a $2,500 premium over the base V8 but can recoup this investment within 3-4 years for drivers covering average annual mileage. This makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to improve efficiency in a vehicle of this size.
#6: Toyota Sequoia Hybrid – Toyota’s Biggest SUV Goes Efficient
The redesigned Sequoia achieves 22 MPG combined (24 highway/21 city) using Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system. This represents Toyota’s largest big SUVs that are fuel efficient option, offering 156.9 cubic feet of passenger volume.
Toyota’s flagship SUV employs a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 hybrid system generating 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivers 3-5 MPG improvement over the previous V8 model while significantly increasing power and capability.
The hybrid system’s primary components are packaged between the engine and transmission, preserving interior space while improving weight distribution. Unlike some hybrids, the Sequoia maintains full capability with a 9,000-pound maximum towing capacity.
Interior dimensions provide comfortable accommodations across all three rows, with available captain’s chairs in the second row and a sliding third row that adjusts to prioritize either passenger comfort or cargo capacity. Maximum cargo volume reaches 86.9 cubic feet with rear seats folded.
The Sequoia comes exclusively as a hybrid, demonstrating Toyota’s commitment to improving efficiency across its largest vehicles. This strategy eliminates the price premium typically associated with hybrid options while delivering a best fuel efficient large SUV option in the true full-size category.
#7: Mazda CX-90 PHEV – Plug-in Efficiency With Three-Row Space
The CX-90 PHEV achieves 26 MPG combined after battery depletion and up to 56 MPGe using its electric range. This most fuel efficient large SUV option offers 151.8 cubic feet of passenger volume with upscale appointments.
Mazda’s flagship SUV employs a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine combined with a 17.8 kWh battery pack and electric motor. This system delivers 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with approximately 26 miles of electric-only range before operating as a conventional hybrid.
The PHEV powertrain adds approximately $6,000 over equivalent 3.3-liter turbo models but potentially qualifies for federal tax incentives up to $3,750. For drivers who can charge regularly, real-world efficiency can exceed 40 MPG in mixed driving.
Interior space prioritizes first and second-row comfort with premium materials throughout. The third row accommodates average adults for shorter trips, while cargo capacity ranges from 15.9 cubic feet behind the third row to 74.2 cubic feet maximum.
The standard all-wheel drive system features torque vectoring that improves handling while maintaining efficiency. This technology helps the CX-90 PHEV deliver an engaging driving experience unusual among fuel efficient full size SUVs.
#8: Volvo XC90 Recharge – Luxury PHEV With Serious Space
The XC90 Recharge achieves 27 MPG combined after battery depletion and 58 MPGe using its electric range. This best mpg full-size SUV luxury option provides 157.5 cubic feet of passenger volume with Scandinavian design elements.
Volvo’s plug-in hybrid system combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged and supercharged four-cylinder with electric motors producing 455 combined horsepower. This sophisticated powertrain delivers approximately 18 miles of electric range before transitioning to hybrid operation.
The XC90 Recharge commands approximately $10,000 over equivalent mild-hybrid models but may qualify for federal tax incentives. For drivers with regular charging access, actual efficiency can approach 35-40 MPG in mixed driving.
Interior space exemplifies Scandinavian luxury with high-quality materials and minimalist design. The third row accommodates average adults, while cargo capacity ranges from 15.8 cubic feet behind the third row to 85.7 cubic feet maximum.
Advanced driver assistance features come standard, including Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving capability. These technologies help position the XC90 Recharge as one of the most comprehensive full-size SUVs with best fuel economy in the luxury segment.
#9: Kia Sorento Hybrid – Midsize Dimensions With Full-Size Interior
The Sorento Hybrid achieves an impressive 37 MPG combined (39 city/35 highway) while offering three-row seating. This fuel economy full size SUV alternative provides clever packaging that maximizes its 143.1 cubic feet of passenger volume.
Kia’s efficient SUV employs a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an electric motor producing 227 combined horsepower. This system delivers approximately 10 MPG improvement over the standard 2.5-liter model while maintaining responsive performance.
The hybrid powertrain adds approximately $1,700 over comparable gas models, with annual fuel savings of approximately $500-600. This provides an attractive 3-year payback period for this large SUV best gas mileage option.
Interior space uses every inch effectively, with a sliding second row that can adjust to prioritize third-row legroom when needed. Cargo capacity ranges from 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row to 75.5 cubic feet maximum with all rear seats folded.
The standard front-wheel drive configuration maximizes efficiency, while the available all-wheel drive system reduces combined fuel economy by only 2 MPG to 35 combined. This makes the Sorento Hybrid a practical option for all-weather regions.
#10: GMC Yukon Diesel – Full-Size Efficiency Without Compromise
The Yukon Diesel achieves 23 MPG combined (27 highway/21 city) despite its massive proportions. This traditional largest SUV with best gas mileage option offers 168.4 cubic feet of passenger volume with truck-based capability.
GMC’s full-size SUV employs the same 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel as the Tahoe, producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain delivers approximately 6 MPG combined improvement over the standard 5.3-liter V8 gasoline engine.
The diesel option carries a $995-1,500 premium (depending on trim) over the base V8 but delivers approximately $850-1,000 in annual fuel savings for average drivers. This makes it one of the quickest payback periods among efficiency upgrades in large SUVs.
Interior accommodations showcase GMC’s premium positioning with high-quality materials and advanced technology. The third row offers adult-friendly space with 34.9 inches of legroom, while cargo capacity ranges from 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row to 122.9 cubic feet maximum.
The available four-wheel drive system reduces efficiency by only 1-2 MPG combined, maintaining the Yukon Diesel’s position as a best mpg full size SUV option even with all-weather capability.
How These 10 SUVs Compare: Size vs. Efficiency Breakdown
| Model | Combined MPG | Passenger Volume (cu. ft.) | Max Cargo (cu. ft.) | Towing Capacity (lbs) | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 36 | 141.3 | 84.3 | 3,500 | $40,220 |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | 27-28 | 152.7 | 87.8 | 5,000 | $45,495 |
| Kia Telluride | 23-24 | 178.1 | 87.0 | 5,500 | $35,990 |
| Hyundai Palisade | 22-24 | 155.3 | 86.4 | 5,000 | $36,400 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel | 24 | 178.1 | 122.9 | 8,200 | $54,500 |
| Toyota Sequoia Hybrid | 22 | 156.9 | 86.9 | 9,000 | $58,865 |
| Mazda CX-90 PHEV | 26 (56 MPGe) | 151.8 | 74.2 | 3,500 | $48,820 |
| Volvo XC90 Recharge | 27 (58 MPGe) | 157.5 | 85.7 | 5,000 | $71,900 |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | 37 | 143.1 | 75.5 | 2,000 | $36,590 |
| GMC Yukon Diesel | 23 | 168.4 | 122.9 | 8,200 | $57,795 |
This comparison reveals the clear efficiency advantage of hybrid technology, with the Highlander and Sorento hybrids delivering 50% better fuel economy than conventional models of similar size. The large SUVs with best mpg consistently employ either hybrid or diesel technology.
True body-on-frame SUVs like the Tahoe, Yukon, and Sequoia offer substantially more cargo capacity and towing capability than unibody crossovers. These traditional full size SUVs best gas mileage options still face an efficiency disadvantage despite modern powertrains.
Plug-in hybrid options command significant price premiums but deliver exceptional efficiency for drivers with regular charging access. For many buyers, conventional hybrids represent the better value proposition when considering purchase price and simplified operation.
Which Big SUV Offers the Best Value Per MPG?
| Model | 5-Year Fuel Cost | 5-Year Total Cost* | Cost Per MPG | MPG Per $1,000 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | $6,250 | $46,470 | $1,290 | 0.775 |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | $8,335 | $53,830 | $1,922 | 0.520 |
| Kia Telluride | $9,585 | $45,575 | $1,899 | 0.527 |
| Hyundai Palisade | $9,585 | $45,985 | $1,916 | 0.522 |
| Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel | $10,000** | $64,500 | $2,688 | 0.372 |
| Toyota Sequoia Hybrid | $10,455 | $69,320 | $3,151 | 0.317 |
| Mazda CX-90 PHEV | $7,500*** | $56,320 | $2,166 | 0.462 |
| Volvo XC90 Recharge | $7,000*** | $78,900 | $2,922 | 0.342 |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | $6,085 | $42,675 | $1,153 | 0.867 |
| GMC Yukon Diesel | $10,420** | $68,215 | $2,966 | 0.337 |
*Base MSRP plus 5-year fuel costs
**Includes higher diesel fuel costs
***Assumes some electric operation
This value analysis reveals the Kia Sorento Hybrid and Toyota Highlander Hybrid as the clear efficiency value leaders among biggest SUVs with best gas mileage. The Sorento Hybrid delivers the highest MPG per dollar spent, while the Highlander Hybrid provides more interior space with excellent efficiency.
The conventional Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade offer compelling value despite lower MPG ratings due to their lower purchase prices. These models represent the best non-hybrid options for buyers seeking large SUVs with best gas mileage.
Diesel options from Chevrolet and GMC deliver long-term value through durability and retained value despite higher initial costs. For buyers keeping vehicles beyond 5 years, these best mpg full-size SUV diesel options become increasingly economical.
Real-World Fuel Economy: Owner Reports vs. EPA Ratings
| Model | EPA Combined | Real-World Average* | Difference | % Variance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Highlander Hybrid | 36 | 33.5 | -2.5 | -6.9% |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | 27 | 24.8 | -2.2 | -8.1% |
| Kia Telluride | 23 | 21.5 | -1.5 | -6.5% |
| Hyundai Palisade | 22 | 20.7 | -1.3 | -5.9% |
| Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel | 24 | 25.8 | +1.8 | +7.5% |
| Toyota Sequoia Hybrid | 22 | 20.1 | -1.9 | -8.6% |
| Mazda CX-90 PHEV | 26 | 29.7** | +3.7 | +14.2% |
| Volvo XC90 Recharge | 27 | 30.2** | +3.2 | +11.9% |
| Kia Sorento Hybrid | 37 | 35.2 | -1.8 | -4.9% |
| GMC Yukon Diesel | 23 | 24.9 | +1.9 | +8.3% |
*Based on aggregated user-reported data
**Includes some electric operation
Real-world data reveals interesting patterns among these full size SUV with best gas mileage options. Conventional hybrids typically underperform their EPA ratings by 5-9% in owner-reported figures, though they still deliver substantial efficiency advantages.
Diesel models from Chevrolet and GMC consistently exceed their EPA ratings by 7-8% in real-world use. This makes them particularly appealing for highway-heavy driving patterns where their efficiency advantage is most pronounced.
Plug-in hybrids show the greatest variability based on charging patterns and driving conditions. Owners who charge regularly report economy figures substantially better than EPA estimates, while those who rarely charge may see efficiency closer to conventional hybrids.
The Kia Sorento Hybrid shows the smallest variance from EPA figures, suggesting its ratings most accurately reflect real-world expectations. This reinforces its position as one of the most predictable most fuel efficient large SUVs available.
People Also Ask:
Which of these 10 SUVs has the most cargo space while still maintaining good fuel economy?
The Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel offers the most cargo space among fuel-efficient large SUVs, with 122.9 cubic feet maximum and 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row while achieving 24 MPG combined. The GMC Yukon Diesel provides identical space with slightly lower 23 MPG combined economy.
Can any of these fuel-efficient large SUVs still tow more than 5,000 pounds?
Yes, several fuel-efficient large SUVs maintain strong towing capabilities. The Toyota Sequoia Hybrid leads with 9,000 pounds capacity while achieving 22 MPG combined. The Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon diesels both tow 8,200 pounds with 24/23 MPG combined respectively.
Are there significant maintenance cost differences between the hybrid and non-hybrid options on this list?
Hybrid models typically have 10-15% higher scheduled maintenance costs but require significantly fewer brake replacements due to regenerative braking. Modern hybrids like the Toyota Highlander and Sequoia have battery warranties extending to 10 years/150,000 miles, minimizing long-term reliability concerns.
Which of these 10 SUVs performs best in cold weather while maintaining good fuel economy?
The Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel and GMC Yukon Diesel maintain the most consistent fuel economy in cold weather, with minimal efficiency loss compared to hybrids. Among hybrids, the Ford Explorer Hybrid shows the smallest winter economy reduction at approximately 10-15% versus 20-30% for some competitors.
Do any of these efficient large SUVs qualify for tax incentives or rebates?
The plug-in hybrid models qualify for federal tax incentives: the Mazda CX-90 PHEV is eligible for up to $3,750 and the Volvo XC90 Recharge for up to $3,750-7,500 depending on battery sourcing. Conventional hybrids no longer qualify for federal incentives, but some states offer additional rebates.