Diesel SUVs have long been loved for their durability, torque, and fuel efficiency. The trusty diesel engine continues to be a saving grace for those who want to maximize mileage without sacrificing power. But which SUVs truly go the distance? Here are 23 diesel SUVs that combine reliability, long-range cruising, and extra fuel economy.
Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel
The Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel is a solid contender on this list. Known for its robust off-road capabilities, the EcoDiesel variant features a 3.0L V6 engine. Jeep claims this powerhouse achieves around 26 mpg on the highway—ideal for long trips. Its 24.6-gallon tank lets you cover over 600 miles without refueling, making it one of the best diesel SUVs for road trips.
Land Rover Range Rover Sport TDV6
The Land Rover Range Rover Sport TDV6 is the ultimate luxury statement for those who also care about fuel efficiency. Its 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine produces 254 hp and 440 lb.-ft of torque and can tow up to 7,700 pounds. What’s remarkable is that this British beast manages 28 mpg on the highway, allowing it to cruise well beyond 500 miles on a full diesel tank.
BMW X5 xDrive35d
The X5 xDrive35d offers a 3.0L 6-cylinder diesel engine that delivers 255 hp and 413 lb.-ft of torque. BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, making it ideal for varying road conditions, from highways to light off-roading. In terms of luxury, it boasts high-end materials, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a spacious, comfortable interior that comfortably seats five.
Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel
The Chevrolet Tahoe Diesel proves that even full-sized SUVs can be fuel-sipping giants. Powered by a 3.0L inline-six turbo-diesel, this SUV can manage 277 hp and 460 lb.-ft of torque. Despite its size and muscle, the Tahoe Diesel remains fuel-efficient while retaining off-road capabilities with its optional four-wheel-drive system. Whether you’re hauling a boat or traversing long distances, this SUV blends utility, comfort, and efficiency.
GMC Yukon Diesel
The GMC Yukon Diesel is a sibling to the Chevrolet Tahoe, sharing many of its traits but with an upscale twist. It pairs with a 10-speed automatic transmission, ensuring smooth power delivery. This engine offers impressive towing capabilities of up to 8,100 pounds and is highly efficient. The Yukon Diesel also achieves up to 28 mpg on the highway, a standout figure for such a large vehicle.
Ford Expedition MAX Diesel (International Markets)
For our readers across the pond, Ford offers the Expedition MAX Diesel in various international markets. It has a 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine, delivering 250 horsepower and 440 lb.-ft of torque. The Expedition MAX Diesel also offers impressive fuel efficiency, achieving 25 mpg on highways, thanks to Ford’s advanced diesel technology. And its advanced features, such as adaptive cruise control and a Terrain Management System, enhance both comfort and off-road prowess.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 350d
With its 7,700-pound towing capacity, the GLE 350d is a practical choice for hauling trailers or boats. Inside, the vehicle is designed for comfort and tech-savvy users, boasting a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup for infotainment and digital displays, alongside premium materials throughout the cabin. Also, Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system adds to its off-road capability, while advanced safety features like Active Brake Assist ensure a secure driving experience.
Audi Q7 TDI
The Audi Q7 TDI accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.7 seconds, impressive for its size and class. Fuel efficiency is another highlight, with the Q7 TDI achieving up to 28 mpg on the highway, offering a driving range of over 600 miles on a full tank. The interior is equally compelling, featuring high-quality materials, Audi’s MMI infotainment system, and spacious seating for seven passengers. And, despite being discontinued after the 2016 emissions scandal, the Audi Q7 TDI remains popular in the used car market for its balance of luxury, power, and efficiency.
Toyota Land Cruiser Diesel (International Markets)
The Toyota Land Cruiser has long been an icon of durability and off-road prowess. In markets outside the US, the Land Cruiser Diesel offers a 4.5L V8 turbo-diesel engine that churns out 268 hp and 480 lb.-ft of torque. This rugged machine delivers 25 mpg on the highway, making it both a beast in the wilderness and surprisingly efficient for its size. In short, if you’re planning a road trip across rough terrains or just want to feel invincible on your commute, the Land Cruiser Diesel won’t disappoint.
Nissan Patrol Diesel (International Markets)
The Nissan Patrol Diesel’s massive fuel tank, combined with a fuel efficiency of around 25 mpg, gives it a remarkable range of up to 650 miles on a full tank, making it ideal for long-distance adventures. Designed mainly for off-road enthusiasts, the Land Cruiser also boasts advanced 4WD capabilities, including multi-terrain select, crawl control, and locking differentials, ensuring it can handle any challenging environment. Plus, its spacious interior, with seating for up to eight passengers, combines luxury with utility.
Volkswagen Touareg V6 TDI
Volkswagen’s Touareg V6 TDI features a 3.0L turbocharged V6 diesel engine, delivering 282 hp and 443 lb.-ft of torque, providing robust power for towing and off-road adventures. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and Volkswagen’s 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system, it ensures smooth handling and traction in various terrains. Its 7700-pound towing capacity makes it versatile for hauling trailers or boats, appealing to drivers seeking both efficiency and utility.
Chevrolet Suburban Diesel
The Chevrolet Suburban Diesel’s fuel efficiency is impressive for its size. Thanks to its advanced diesel technology, it achieves an EPA-rated 28 mpg on the highway. The Suburban also boasts a spacious interior that accommodates up to nine passengers and offers a wealth of tech features, including Chevy’s Infotainment 3 system.
Ram 1500 EcoDiesel (For Fans of SUV-Like Trucks)
While technically a truck, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel deserves mention for those who might want an SUV’s capability in a more rugged form. The EcoDiesel variant shines in fuel efficiency, achieving an impressive EPA rating of up to 33 mpg on the highway. This efficiency is complemented by a large fuel tank, allowing for a range of nearly 1,000 miles on a single tank. With its blend of power, efficiency, and comfort, the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel is an excellent choice for those seeking versatility in a truck.
Jaguar F-Pace Diesel
Under the hood, the Jaguar F-Pace Diesel boasts a 2.0L turbocharged diesel engine, churning out a respectable 180 hp and a generous 318 lb.-ft of torque. It purrs its way to an impressive 40 mpg on the highway, making it a champion of efficiency in the luxury SUV league. But wait, there’s more! With an all-wheel-drive system that would make a mountain goat jealous, the F-Pace Diesel can handle a bit of mud without losing its cool.
Mazda CX-5 Diesel
Mazda’s first venture into diesel territory came with the CX-5 Diesel, which was met with open arms. The CX-5 Diesel can achieve an impressive 30 mpg on the highway, meaning you can take a road trip without constantly playing the gas station lottery. And, with its stylish design and spacious interior, it’s perfect for those who want to look good while saving the planet—one mile at a time.
Porsche Cayenne Diesel (Older Models)
Before Porsche dropped diesel engines from its lineup, the Cayenne Diesel was one of the most fuel-efficient options in the luxury-performance SUV world. Powered by a 3.0L V6 turbo-diesel engine, it churned out 240 hp and 406 lb.-ft of torque, making it quicker than your cousin after a slice of birthday cake. Its ample cargo space meant you could haul all the groceries (or golf clubs) you needed, while its sleek design made it look good doing it.
Jeep Wrangler EcoDiesel
With its iconic seven-slot grille and bold fenders, this off-road marvel looks like it just rolled out of a “tough guy” movie. Under the hood, it sports a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, delivering 260 hp and a staggering 442 lb.-ft of torque—perfect for scaling mountains or simply navigating the local drive-thru. Plus, its removable doors and roof mean you can enjoy the breeze.
Land Rover Discovery TD6
Sporting a sleek, muscular exterior that screams, “I can tackle any terrain,” the Land Rover Discovery TD6 features a distinctive sloping roofline and a bold grille that might make other SUVs feel slightly self-conscious. Inside, it’s pure luxury: think leather seats, an intuitive infotainment system, and enough space to comfortably fit the entire family (and their questionable snack choices). And with a 22.5-gallon fuel tank, you can explore far and wide before refueling.
Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel (For Fans of SUV-Like Trucks)
Another truck masquerading as an SUV (or vice versa), the Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel offers one of the most fuel-efficient full-size truck experiences. This beauty churns out 250 hp and a staggering 440 lb.-ft of torque, ready to haul anything from your boat to your neighbor’s aspirations of a garden gnome empire. And, with an EPA-rated 30 mpg on the highway, you can drive farther while making your wallet weep a little less. Not to forget, it’s also got a towing capacity of up to 11,500 pounds.
Mercedes-Benz GLS 350d (Older Models)
Another heavyweight in the luxury SUV segment, the Mercedes-Benz GLS 350d is a seven-seater that doesn’t compromise fuel efficiency. It has an EPA-rated 26 mpg on the highway and is ideal for long trips. The GLS 350d also boasts a spacious interior that comfortably accommodates seven adults. Just imagine: everyone’s comfortable, and you can still fit in that fifth case of water for the beach trip. Who says luxury can’t be practical?
Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel (International Markets)
The Hyundai Santa Fe Diesel is available primarily in international markets and is a solid contender for those wanting a bit of style with their efficiency. This SUV is available primarily in international markets and packs a 2.2L turbo-diesel engine that delivers a respectable 200 hp and 325 lb.-ft of torque. Plus, with fuel economy figures around 39 mpg on the highway, you don’t have to make as many gas stops. And, thanks to its spacious interior and seven-seat capacity, it’s also perfect for family outings.
Skoda Kodiaq Diesel (International Markets)
The Skoda Kodiaq Diesel is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Fuel economy? A whopping 43 mpg on the highway! It only stops at fuel stations every 800 miles or so. With room for seven and a trunk big enough to fit your dreams (or just a week’s worth of groceries), the Kodiaq makes family outings less of a circus act and more of a smooth ride. And let’s not forget, it’s priced to keep your wallet happy too!
SsangYong Rexton Diesel (International Markets)
The SsangYong Rexton Diesel features a 2.2L turbo-diesel engine that cranks out a respectable 202 hp and 325 lb.-ft of torque. While it may not be the talk of the town, it delivers around 40 mpg on the highway, meaning you can road-trip your way to a fuel-efficient kingdom. Also, its 70-liter tank lets you hit the open road for over 700 miles before you need to cozy up to a fuel pump.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
Reliability is a core feature that defines a vehicle. Over the last few decades, some vehicles have emerged as a reliable and durable option, standing out as workhorses that never quit. These vehicles not only prove themselves in terms of performance but transcend their role and become reliable partners, always fulfilling their role. Here are 12 Cars known for their unbreakable reliability.
12 Cars That Are Known for Their Unbreakable Reliability — They Just Don’t Quit
