Best 6-Cylinders SUVs of 2022

With more space and capability than a three-box sedan, a 6-cylinder SUV also introduces greater power and refinement to the package. This is important as the raised body typically weighs more than a sedan, so a bigger engine is of high value to many shoppers. However, the average six-cylinder SUV powertrain is thirstier than a smaller, force-fed four-pot, so running costs could quickly escalate. For both 2021 and 2022, a surplus of choice in the USA sees the price vary from under $30,000 to over $100,000. So, there is something to suit all budgets.

BuzzScore
Design
Performance
MPG
Interior
Infotainment
Reliability
Safety
Value
#1
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 SUV
9.1
BuzzScore
10
Design
10
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
8
Reliability
9
Safety
8
Value
#2
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee
9
BuzzScore
10
Design
9
Performance
7
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
8
Value
#3
2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee L
9
BuzzScore
10
Design
9
Performance
7
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
8
Value
#4
2021 Genesis GV80
9
BuzzScore
N/A
Design
N/A
Performance
N/A
MPG
N/A
Interior
N/A
Infotainment
N/A
Reliability
N/A
Safety
N/A
Value
#5
2021 Lincoln Navigator
9
BuzzScore
9
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
8
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
10
Value
#6
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class SUV
9
BuzzScore
9
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
7
Reliability
10
Safety
9
Value
#7
2022 Lincoln Navigator L
9
BuzzScore
9
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
8
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
10
Value
#8
2021 Ford Bronco
8.9
BuzzScore
10
Design
8
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
10
Infotainment
9
Reliability
8
Safety
9
Value
#9
2022 Genesis GV70
8.9
BuzzScore
10
Design
8
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
9
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#10
2022 Chevrolet Blazer
8.8
BuzzScore
10
Design
8
Performance
7
MPG
9
Interior
10
Infotainment
8
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#11
2022 BMW X3
#11
BMW X3
8.8
BuzzScore
8
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
9
Infotainment
8
Reliability
10
Safety
8
Value
#12
2022 Acura MDX
#12
Acura MDX
8.8
BuzzScore
9
Design
8
Performance
7
MPG
9
Interior
9
Infotainment
9
Reliability
10
Safety
9
Value
#13
2022 Lincoln Aviator
8.8
BuzzScore
10
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
8
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
8
Value
#14
2021 BMW X4
#14
BMW X4
8.8
BuzzScore
8
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
9
Infotainment
8
Reliability
10
Safety
9
Value
#15
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class SUV
8.8
BuzzScore
8
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
10
Infotainment
8
Reliability
10
Safety
7
Value
#16
2022 BMW X5 Hybrid
8.8
BuzzScore
9
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
10
Infotainment
8
Reliability
10
Safety
7
Value
#17
2022 Lincoln Aviator Hybrid
8.8
BuzzScore
10
Design
9
Performance
9
MPG
8
Interior
8
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
8
Value
#18
2022 Chevrolet Traverse
8.6
BuzzScore
8
Design
7
Performance
8
MPG
10
Interior
9
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
9
Value
#19
2022 Toyota Highlander
8.6
BuzzScore
8
Design
7
Performance
9
MPG
8
Interior
9
Infotainment
10
Reliability
10
Safety
8
Value
#20
2022 Porsche Cayenne E-Hybrid Coupe
8.6
BuzzScore
9
Design
9
Performance
8
MPG
9
Interior
9
Infotainment
9
Reliability
9
Safety
7
Value

Types Of Six-Cylinder SUVs

Since a six-pot adds to the overall cost, most such vehicles exist in the midsize segment and above. One of the compact offerings is the Jeep Cherokee with a 3.2-liter V6 for under $30,000. Both the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot have naturally-aspirated mills and three rows of seats. The full-size BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS have potent turbocharged power plants. Some options are particularly adept at off-road forays, while others cater to buyers looking for a softer ride for comfortable on-road use.

At the more premium and luxury end of the market, V8s become available. However, it could be argued that a six provides some of the efficiency of a four, and some of the refinement and character more often associated with a brawny V8. A test drive remains crucial once you have drawn up a shortlist, however.

Choosing From The Top Six-Cylinder SUVs

Once you have decided on what is within your budget, there is a lot more to consider. Do you want a turbocharged power plant or are you happy with a naturally-aspirated unit? Even the best 6 cyl SUV won’t be especially light on fuel, so it’s worth taking into account consumption. Our advice would be to focus on these points:

  • Price: Crossovers are dime-a-dozen, so begin with what you can afford first. A low-mileage secondhand version could be a smart move, too, if you need more grunt but can’t stretch to a new car.
  • Drivetrain: Going for a 4x2 lowers the initial outlay, but you may hanker after a 4x4 depending on your specific needs.
  • Engine: If you only want a six-pot for its enhanced refinement, you won’t need a turbo, but forced induction greatly improves drivability in certain cases.
    Towing capacity: These crossovers often function as excellent haulers, ideal for pulling along your boat or trailer. A comparison with rivals is key.
  • Fuel consumption: Some of these vehicles are true gas-guzzlers, while others strike a better balance between performance and economy.

Specifications and Pricing of the Top Six Cylinder SUVs

It’s challenging to sift through the maze of configurations and choices. Popular six-pot crossovers range all the way from the Jeep Cherokee at below $30,000 and with a 271-horsepower beating heart, to well over $70,000 for the luxurious Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class which produces 362 hp. The Lincoln Aviator Hybrid is an example of six-cylinder power combined with an electric motor - it produces a strong 494 hp.

Advantages and Disadvantages of the Top Six Cylinder SUVs

Does the perfect vehicle exist? Probably not. While having a big six under the hood of a spacious vehicle sounds like an ideal combination, you’ll be paying for it - literally. Fuel consumption is the Achilles heel of a car like this. A 6-cyl people-mover carries a hefty premium over crossovers with a small turbo-four.

Pros

  • Superior towing capacities
  • Improved refinement
  • Complex turbos aren’t necessary for solid outputs
  • Generally sold with more features and paired with higher-spec trims

Cons

  • Heavy fuel consumption
  • A turbo-four can provide just as much power while being more efficient
  • Pricier than a four-pot
  • Naturally-aspirated models sometimes feel a bit gutless

FAQs For Six Cylinder Crossovers

What are the highest rated 6 cyl SUVs for 2020?

Based on our BuzzScore, four competitors have ratings of nine out of ten. These are the Kia Telluride, BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Lincoln Navigator. The Hyundai Palisade and Chevrolet Blazer are close behind and much more nominally priced, too. On the sales charts, the Toyota Highlander is a strong-selling SUV that has a V6 unit. We gave it an overall rating of 8.6.

What are the best hybrid 6 cylinder SUVs in the US?

Combining the power and refinement of a smooth six with the efficiency of a hybrid, what are your best bets? Well, the Mercedes GLE-Class has a top score of 8.8 and can be had in GLE 450 guise, which is a turbo V6 paired with a 48-volt electrical system. The Lexus RX Hybrid is another great choice, with a score of 8.4.

To learn more about the many crossovers on sale, take a look at our detailed reviews. Each one is arranged by model year, with 2021 versions added as they are made available. Reviews will list each lineup by trim, and also cover both 2WD and AWD drivetrains, along with warranty information based on mileage and time period. This helps you to find the perfect crossover for the money, whether you elect to buy or lease.

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