It’s a common misconception that owning a capable SUV means frequent and expensive trips to the gas station. However, thanks to advancements in automotive technology, especially with hybrid, diesel, and electric powertrains, you can now enjoy the ruggedness and versatility of a 4×4 SUV without breaking the bank on fuel costs. We’ve compiled a list of the most fuel-efficient 4×4 SUVs on the market in 2024, proving that you can have maximum capability with minimum fueling costs.
Defining what exactly constitutes an SUV versus a crossover can be subjective. For the purpose of this article, we lean towards a more traditional definition of an SUV as a vehicle built with a body-on-frame construction. This classic design typically involves a separate frame onto which the body and suspension are mounted, contributing to the SUV’s renowned toughness and truck-like durability, ideal for demanding tasks.
While body-on-frame construction is a key indicator, we acknowledge that there are exceptions. Certain crossover vehicles blur the lines with SUV-like capabilities, offering impressive off-road performance and substantial towing capacity despite their unibody chassis. These models deserve recognition for their blend of efficiency and ruggedness.
Why emphasize this distinction? Because we believe true SUVs are built to handle serious towing and demanding utility needs. However, this robust build often comes at the expense of fuel efficiency compared to lighter, car-based crossovers.
To identify the most fuel-efficient 4×4 SUVs, we utilized data from the EPA’s official fuel economy ratings. This list ranks 12 SUVs offering the best combination of fuel economy and the all-weather, all-terrain traction of 4×4 or all-wheel drive (AWD), essential for adventurous drivers. The diversity in powertrains and surprising efficiency of some models on this list will definitely impress you.
Below are the 12 most fuel-efficient SUVs with 4×4 or AWD for 2024, ranked from least to most fuel-efficient based on EPA combined MPG ratings.
(If you’re also interested in pickups, be sure to read about 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)
2024 Lexus GX OvertrailThe 2024 Lexus GX Overtrail, showcasing its rugged design and off-road capabilities.
Lexus has completely revamped the Lexus GX with the introduction of the GX 550. This redesigned model features a modern twin-turbo V6 engine and shares its robust frame with the Lexus LX, maintaining its body-on-frame SUV status and off-road pedigree.
The GX 550 is equipped with full-time four-wheel drive, a two-speed transfer case, and a Torsen limited-slip center differential, ensuring capable off-road performance. The new Overtrail trim enhances its off-road focus with an electronic locking rear differential, Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System, and Crawl Control.
Power comes from a 3.4L twin-turbo V6 producing 349 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain achieves an EPA-estimated 17 mpg combined fuel economy.
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)
2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro Lime Rush
The 2022 Toyota 4Runner TRD Pro in Lime Rush, showcasing its vibrant color and off-road ready stance.
While the completely redesigned 2025 Toyota 4Runner is on the horizon with more efficient engine options, the 2024 model, with its 4.0L V6, still holds its own as a capable off-roader. It offers available 4×4, Kinetic Dynamic Suspension, and a locking rear differential for enhanced traction and control.
The 4Runner’s TRD versions further amplify its off-road prowess with specialized features like tuned shocks and springs.
The 2024 4Runner is powered by a V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a five-speed automatic transmission. This setup yields an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the 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)
2022 Ford Expedition Timberline
The 2022 Ford Expedition Timberline, highlighting its rugged styling and outdoor-oriented features.
The Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator, while visually distinct and catering to different luxury levels, share fundamental underpinnings. Both SUVs utilize a fully boxed frame, similar to the one found in the Ford F-150, the world’s best-selling pickup truck.
Despite their body-on-frame construction, the use of aluminum body panels helps reduce weight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency. Instead of traditional V8 engines, both employ a 3.5L twin-turbo V6.
Ford Expedition XL, XLT, and STX trims generate 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, while higher trims like Timberline and Stealth, along with the Lincoln Navigator, produce 440 horsepower. All models across the range are equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
The EPA estimates the fuel economy for four-wheel drive Ford Expedition models in lower trims at 18 mpg combined. Interestingly, the heavier and more powerful 4×4 Lincoln Navigator also achieves the same 18 mpg combined rating.
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)
(Photo/Jeep)
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer, showcasing its luxurious design and premium features.
As Stellantis moves towards electrification, the renowned V8 engine is being replaced by the new 3.0L turbocharged inline-six Hurricane engine in models like the Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer. Two versions of the Hurricane are available, both promising improved fuel efficiency over the previous 6.4L V8.
The standard Hurricane produces 420 horsepower and 468 lb-ft of torque, while the higher-output Hurricane 510 boasts 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. These engines enable impressive towing capabilities, ranging from 9,800 to 10,000 pounds.
The Grand Wagoneer is positioned as a luxury SUV, offering a refined driving experience with a smooth powertrain and exceptional capabilities. Features like low-range gearing, Selec-Terrain traction management, and optional air suspension enhance its versatility.
EPA estimates for the Jeep Grand Wagoneer Hurricane are 19 mpg combined city and highway 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)
Lexus Lx 600The Lexus LX 600 in Ultra Luxury trim, displaying its elegant design and premium appointments.
The Lexus LX, the luxury counterpart to the Toyota Land Cruiser, shares its platform with the Toyota Tundra. It also features a version of the Tundra’s powertrain: a 409-horsepower twin-turbo 3.4L V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The LX underwent a complete redesign in 2022, and remains unchanged for the 2024 model year.
The LX 600 comes standard with full-time four-wheel drive, active height-adjustable suspension, and crawl control, making it surprisingly capable off-road despite its luxurious appearance.
It achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg combined fuel economy.
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)
Ford BroncoThe Ford Bronco 2-Door, showcasing its iconic design and off-road readiness with removable top and doors.
As the first serious competitor to the Jeep Wrangler in years, the Ford Bronco utilizes the Ford Ranger platform effectively. This stylish and highly customizable off-roader features removable doors, roof, and fenders, offering an open-air driving experience. Both automatic and manual transmission versions achieve the same fuel economy ratings.
The two-door Bronco model is the most fuel-efficient in the lineup, and uniquely offers a seven-speed manual transmission with a crawler gear for enhanced off-road control.
Equipped with the 2.3L EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Bronco delivers 275 horsepower and 315 lb-ft of torque on regular gasoline, with an increase to 300 horsepower on premium fuel.
This engine rewards drivers with an EPA-estimated 20 mpg combined fuel economy.
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)
2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro most fuel efficient SUV
The 2023 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro, showcasing its rugged styling and off-road capability while achieving impressive fuel economy.
The redesigned 2023 Sequoia offers a powerful driving experience thanks to its i-Force MAX 3.4L twin-turbo V6 hybrid powertrain, producing 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque. This hybrid system incorporates a 48-horsepower electric motor positioned between the V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Sharing technology with the Tundra pickup, the Sequoia utilizes a modern body-on-frame chassis with a fully boxed frame. Despite its substantial size, the Sequoia hybrid delivers a compelling combination of power and efficiency.
While some may miss the traditional V8, the new Sequoia hybrid provides more power, greater torque, and improved fuel economy, resulting in a superior overall driving experience. Detailed insights can be found in a review of the 2023 Toyota Sequoia.
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)
2022 GMC Yukon Denali Duramax Diesel most fuel-efficient SUV
The 2022 GMC Yukon Denali Duramax Diesel, highlighting its premium design and fuel-efficient diesel engine.
This group of GM SUVs, including the Cadillac Escalade, GMC Yukon XL, Chevrolet Tahoe, and Chevrolet Suburban, share a common chassis while catering to different market segments.
When equipped with the 3.0L Duramax diesel engine and four-wheel drive, these large SUVs can tow up to 8,000 pounds. The Duramax turbo inline-six produces 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, working in conjunction with a 10-speed automatic transmission to maximize efficiency and power delivery.
GM offers versions of these SUVs ranging from luxury models to family-friendly vehicles and even work-oriented and off-road trims, ensuring a suitable option for various needs. All models powered by the diesel engine achieve an EPA-estimated 22 mpg combined fuel economy.
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)
2024 Toyota Land CruiserThe 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser mid-grade ‘Land Cruiser’ trim, displaying its retro-inspired design and modern off-road features.
The Toyota Land Cruiser is completely new for 2024, featuring a retro design reminiscent of classic Land Cruiser models. Despite its vintage aesthetics, it remains a highly capable SUV with a body-on-frame construction, full-time four-wheel drive, and locking front, rear, and center differentials.
The new Land Cruiser is also a hybrid, employing a 2.4L turbo-four Hybrid Max system similar to the Toyota Tacoma Hybrid pickup. This hybrid powertrain contributes to improved fuel economy and enables camping-friendly features like a 2,400W AC inverter in the cargo area.
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)
Jeep 4xeThe Jeep Wrangler 4xe, showcasing its open-air design and plug-in hybrid technology for enhanced efficiency.
The Jeep Wrangler has long been the benchmark for factory off-road SUVs, and the Wrangler 4xe version adds plug-in hybrid technology to its legendary capabilities.
The Wrangler 4xe combines an electric motor with a 2.0L turbo-four engine, delivering a combined output of 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. It also offers up to 21 miles of all-electric driving range, allowing for silent off-roading.
This plug-in hybrid system results in a miles-per-gallon equivalent of 49 MPGe, and 20 mpg combined when operating as a traditional hybrid after the battery is depleted.
Even the standard 2.0L four-cylinder Wrangler achieves a respectable 23 mpg combined, but the 4xe hybrid takes fuel efficiency to another level in the Wrangler lineup.
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)
2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV off-road in Moab
The 2024 GMC Hummer EV SUV in Moab, demonstrating its impressive off-road capabilities in a challenging environment.
The GMC Hummer EV SUV has arrived, blending frame and unibody elements in its construction, similar to the Rivian R1S. It possesses the ruggedness expected of a true SUV, combined with the advanced technology of an electric vehicle.
Initially launched in the Edition 1 trim, the Hummer EV SUV boasts 830 horsepower from its three electric motors and innovative features like CrabWalk for diagonal maneuverability in tight off-road situations.
Available off-road packages enhance its capability with skid plates, locking differentials, and rocker protectors, allowing the electric Hummer to venture into unexpected terrains for 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)
Rivian R1SThe Rivian R1S, showcasing its modern design and all-electric powertrain, leading the pack in fuel efficiency.
When the Rivian R1S began deliveries in 2022, it pioneered the electric SUV segment. While not strictly traditional in construction, its frame integrates the battery and powertrain, and it offers SUV-level capabilities with 14.9 inches of ground clearance and up to 7,700 pounds of towing capacity.
For maximum performance, the Rivian R1S Tri-Motor variant delivers 850 horsepower and 1,103 lb-ft of torque with an impressive 405-mile range.
However, the most fuel-efficient model, topping this list, is the Dual-Motor Max version. It provides 533 horsepower and 610 lb-ft of torque while achieving an estimated 410-mile range.
While the GMC Hummer EV SUV has joined the electric SUV market, the Rivian R1S remains significantly more efficient with its 82 MPGe rating, thanks to its advanced technology and 149 kWh battery pack.
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
2022 Land Rover Defender 110The Land Rover Defender 110, bridging the gap between SUV and crossover with its off-road capability and modern unibody construction.
Recognizing the sometimes blurry distinction between SUVs and crossovers, we’ve included a section highlighting “almost-SUVs” – unibody vehicles that bridge the gap.
These crossovers can rival traditional body-on-frame SUVs in towing capacity and off-road prowess. Here are some notable examples, ranked by fuel economy:
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xeThe Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe, a plug-in hybrid crossover offering impressive electric range and fuel efficiency.
- Land Rover Defender P400 (20 mpg): 18/23 city/highway. Both the three-door 90 and five-door 110 models achieve this fuel economy with their mild-hybrid 3.0L I6 engines.
- Dodge Durango (21 mpg): 18/25 city/highway. The Durango boasts a high towing capacity for a crossover, up to 8,700 pounds.
- Hyundai Palisade/Kia Telluride (22 mpg): 19/27 city/highway. These models offer SUV-like styling and capability despite their unibody construction, powered by a 3.8L V6.
- Ford Explorer (23 mpg): 20/27 city/highway. The Explorer provides a balance of towing capacity (5,000 pounds), ground clearance, and fuel efficiency in a three-row crossover.
- Nissan Pathfinder (23 mpg): 21/27 city/highway. The Pathfinder offers SUV-like towing (up to 6,000 pounds) in a crossover package.
- Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe (56 MPGe): 26-mile all-electric range, 23 mpg combined. The plug-in hybrid Grand Cherokee delivers significant fuel savings.
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