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Best Large SUVs: Summary Points
The Kia Telluride, Ford Expedition, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Mercedes-Benz GLS are among the best three-row large SUVs in 2024.
If cargo space is a priority, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer L and the extended wheelbase versions of the Ford Expedition and Cadillac Escalade deliver the most on this best large SUVs list.
If fuel economy is a priority, the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid with front-wheel drive achieves an EPA-rated 36 combined mpg.
We gathered supplemental data for this list from Kelley Blue Book, J.D. Power, NHTSA, and the IIHS.
Each large SUV here includes a summary of the powertrain, fuel economy, cargo room, and safety ratings.
We have included the starting MSRP by trim level for each large SUV on this list, although pricing can change throughout the year. A helpful auto loan comparison tool can be found near the bottom of this page.
Best Large SUVs: Quick Overview
When shopping for a large SUV, you will come across two primary construction styles: body-on-frame and unibody (sometimes called unit-body).
Traditional body-on-frame SUVs still rule when top priorities are towing, off-roading, and extra interior room via an optional extended wheelbase model (like the Ford Expedition, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Cadillac Escalade on this list).
However, the automotive industry has gravitated towards sedan-inspired, unibody crossovers in recent years for buyers who need the cargo space an SUV affords, but are also prioritizing things like fuel economy.
If you already have a good handle on the differences between body-on-frame and unibody, you can skip the section below and go right to the entries on this best large SUVs list. However, if you think the information will be helpful, tap the “Show More” icon.
2024 Kia Telluride
We like the 2024 Kia Telluride for its rugged yet modernist styling and roomy interior that offers seating for seven or eight. The Kia Telluride has dominated the sales charts since debuting in 2020, and its sub-$38,000 starting MSRP for the 2024 model year is good news for buyers looking for an affordable family vehicle.
The X-Line and X-Pro upgrades offer a few styling tweaks, like gloss black exterior trim for the bumpers, lower door garnish, grille surround, and headlight bezels. X-Line models have 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro offers the most towing capacity in the Telluride lineup.
The 2024 Kia Telluride has solid consumer-verified scores from J.D. Power and good consumer rankings from Kelley Blue Book.
Powertrain
The 2024 Kia Telluride has a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 gasoline engine with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft. of torque. The Telluride has a standard front-wheel drivetrain (FWD) and an eight-speed automatic. An available all-wheel drive (AWD) system features an electro-hydraulic coupling to feed torque between the front and rear axles.
Fuel Economy
The Kia Telluride returns an EPA-estimated 20 in the city, 26 on the highway, and 22 combined with FWD. The numbers drop to 18 in the city, 24 on the highway, and 20 combined when equipped with AWD.
The 2024 Kia Telluride has an 18.8-gallon tank.
Max Towing Capacity & GVWR
The 2024 Kia Telluride has a 5,000 lbs. towing capacity, although X-Pro models with AWD have a max towing capacity of 5,500 lbs.
The 2024 Telluride’s GVWR is 5,776 lbs. (FWD models) and 5,917 lbs. (AWD models).
Cargo Space
The Telluride offers adult-sized accommodations across three rows of seating. The roomy cabin has an interior volume of 178.1 cubic feet and delivers up to 38.1 inches of headroom and 31.4 inches of legroom in the third row.
Meanwhile, the 2024 Telluride has 21 cubic feet of storage room behind the third row, revealing up to 46 cubic feet when folded. Dropping the second row reveals 87 cubic feet of space to carry small appliances or plywood.
2024 Kia Telluride interior layout. Photo: Kia Motors America.
Interior Features
The 2024 Kia Telluride’s luxury-themed interior nicely compliments its semi-rugged exterior. Even the base LX has rear climate control, faux leather seats, push-button start, one-touch sliding and folding second-row seats, and five USB ports (one in the front and two for the second and third row).
Other standard features include 12V power ports, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a six-speaker audio system, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Higher trim levels will include features like Nappa leather seats, a Harman Kardon premium stereo with a subwoofer, and a dual-pane sunroof.
Safety Ratings & Features
The 2024 Kia Telluride has a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and is an IIHS Top Safety Pick+.
Every Telluride has Kia Drive Wise, a package of advanced driver assistance technologies. The package includes forward collision warning, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, navigation-based smart cruise control, driver attention warning, highway driving assist, and rear occupant alert.
Factory Warranty
Every Kia Telluride leaves the West Point, Georgia plant with a five-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. The factory warranty includes a five-year/100,000-mile anti-perforation warranty and five years or 60,000 miles of roadside assistance.
Options are available to extend the warranty on any Kia vehicle, including the Telluride.
2024 Kia Telluride Starting MSRP
The 2024 Telluride has five primary trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige.
The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each with front-wheel drive, although the top-of-the-line SX Prestige is standard with all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is either a $1,000 or $2,000 option, depending on the trim level. The figures in the chart include the $1,365 destination fee.
The X-Line and X-Pro package is available for the EX, SX, and SX Prestige and adds all-wheel drive, leather seats, 20-inch wheels, all-terrain tires (X-Pro), roof rails, a raised suspension, and more.
Trim Level Starting MSRP LX $37,355S$39,255EX$42,955SX$47,155SX Prestige$52,055
2024 Ford Expedition
The 2024 Ford Expedition remains a top pick for a roomy, versatile, and powerful large SUV. Although the Lincoln Navigator is as luxurious as they come, the Ford Expedition is a better option in our book.
For the 2024 model year, the Expedition is available with a standard or long-wheelbase (Expedition MAX) that can offer accommodations for five to eight passengers, depending on the trim level. We also like the abundant safety and infotainment features and robust EcoBoost V6 powertrain.
Since it’s a body-on-frame SUV, the 2024 Ford Expedition will tow more than unibody three-row SUVs like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander, which appear on this list. However, expect to pay a premium for that performance, as the 2024 Expedition starts at $58,000 and reaches north of $80,000 for the range-topping Platinum grade.
Powertrain
The 2024 Ford Expedition XL, STX, and XLT have a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque. Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum have the same engine with a slight power boost (400 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque).
Limited Stealth Performance and Timberline receive a high-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque.
The engine sends power to the rear wheels using a 10-speed automatic, but an optional four-wheel drivetrain (4WD) is available (4WD is standard for the Timberline).
Fuel Economy
Despite having a smaller displacement and two fewer cylinders than the old Expeditions of yore, the EcoBoost V6 has the pulling power of a V8 (zero to 60 mph in under seven seconds). The potential downside is fuel economy, an EPA-rated 17/23 city/highway, and 19 combined for rear-wheel drive variants.
Meanwhile, Expeditions with 4WD will only muster 16 in the city, 22 on the highway, and 18 combined.
The 2024 Ford Expedition has a 23.2-gallon fuel tank, while MAX variants have a 27.8-gallon tank.
Max Towing Capacity & GCWR
The 2024 Ford Expedition with real-wheel drive could pull up to 9,300 lbs. when equipped with the optional Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package (9,200 lbs. for 4WD models). Expedition MAX models are slightly less than that at 9,000 lbs.
The Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package adds a non-limited-slip 3.73 rear axle, a trailer brake controller, trailer backup assist, and reverse brake assist. The 12,300 lbs. GCWR (Expedition 4WD) rises to 15,500 lbs. when equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer Towing Package.
The 2024 Ford Expedition can be flat or neutral towed.
Cargo Space
The Ford Expedition has decent accommodations for at least five passengers across two rows of seats but can accommodate up to eight with its three-row cabin, depending on the trim level.
Standard Wheelbase
The total cargo volume may vary slightly depending on how the second and third rows are positioned (i.e., the seat backs fully upright or the seats moved forward), but in general, the 2024 Ford Expedition will offer between 19.3 and 20.9 cubic feet of space behind the third row.
Fold the third row down, and the total cargo space extends to as much as 63.6 cubic feet if the second row is moved forward all the way. Fold everything down, and the 2024 Expedition provides 104.6 cubic feet of space.
Long Wheelbase (Expedition MAX)
If cargo space is a priority, the Expedition MAX offers between 34.3 and 36 cubic feet of room behind the third row, 73.3 to 79.6 cubic feet when the third row is folded, and a grand total of 121.5 cubic feet with both the second and third row folded down.
The increase in cargo space is due to the Expedition MAX being nearly a foot longer than the standard wheelbase Expedition.
2024 Ford Expedition interior layout. Photo: Ford Motor Company.
Interior Features
Standard features for the XLT include a power liftgate, cabin particulate air filter, climate controls for the second and third rows, two USB ports in the first and second rows, and FordPass Connect with a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot.
Other standard tech features for the XLT include a 12-inch SYNC 4 touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Connected Navigation via a free trial. A wireless charging pad and third-row USB ports are optional.
The top-of-the-line Platinum has more niceties like a two-panel panoramic vista roof, a 22-speaker B&O Unleashed premium stereo, leather-trimmed seating, and tri-zome automatic climate control.
Ford BlueCruise
The 2024 Expedition Platinum receives a 90-day trial of Ford BlueCruise 1.0, a technology that unlocks hands-free driving on prequalified North American highways. BlueCruise assists with braking, acceleration, and steering on applicable roads across the United States and Canada. Ford originally debuted the technology in 2021.
Safety Ratings & Features
The 2024 Expedition has a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA. All Expeditions have Ford Co-Pilot360, which includes blind spot warnings with trailer coverage, lane keeping assist, and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking.
Factory Warranty
The Ford Expedition has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Options are available to extend the warranty on any Ford vehicle, including the Expedition.
2024 Ford Expedition Starting MSRP
The 2024 Expedition has six primary trim levels: XL, XLT, Limited, Timberline, King Ranch, and Platinum. The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each trim level, which includes the $1,995 destination fee.
Trim Level Starting MSRP XL $57,520XLT$61,585Limited$70,405Timberline$73,695King Ranch$80,460Platinum$82,690
2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offers seating for seven or eight, an upscale interior, a standard Quadra-Drive II 4×4 drivetrain, and genuine off-road capabilities befitting the Jeep brand. Every trim level has an abundance of premium appointments and loads of technology.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer is available in a standard or extended (Grand Wagoneer L) wheelbase variant, with the latter having a seven-inch longer wheelbase and a 12-inch longer body overall.
Kelley Blue Book included the Jeep Grand Wagoneer as one of its best luxury SUVs for the 2024 model year.
Powertrain
The Grand Wagoneer’s 6.4-liter V8 is unavailable for the 2024 model year. Parent company Stellantis has replaced it with a 3.0-liter twin-turbo “Hurricane” inline-six with more power and torque than the V8 (this change happened for the 2023 model year).
All 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneers are standard with the new Hurricane inline-six that churns out 510 horsepower and 500 lb-ft. of torque. The engine mates to an eight-speed automatic that turns all four wheels using the brand’s Quadra-Drive II 4×4 drivetrain.
The driveline includes a two-speed transfer case, a rear electronic limited-slip differential, 2.72:1 low-range gearing, and a 48:1 crawl ratio. Combined with Select-Terrain driving modes that alter the engine and driveline settings, the Grand Wagoneer has genuine off-road capabilities that’ll take the entire family off the beaten path.
Fuel Economy
The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer with the Hurricane engine has better fuel economy than the prior 6.4-liter V8. Both the Grand Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer L return an EPA-rated 14 in the city, 20 on the highway, and 17 combined.
By contrast, the 6.4-liter V8 from prior model years of the Grand Wagoneer returned an EPA rating of 13/18 city/highway and 15 combined.
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer has a 26.5-gallon fuel tank, while the Grand Wagoneer L has a 30.5-gallon tank. Premium fuel is recommended for the Hurricane engines.
Max Towing Capacity & GCWR
Thanks to its high-strength steel body-on-frame architecture, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer could tow up to 5,620 lbs. When equipped with the Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow Package, that capacity increases up to 9,800 lbs. The package includes an upgraded engine cooling system, chrome tow hooks, a trailer brake controller, and a trailer-hitch zoom feature.
Meanwhile, the Jeep Grand Wagoneer L has a max 5,400 lbs. towing capacity, increasing to 9,450 lbs. with the Heavy-Duty Trailer-Tow Package. Jeep lists the Grand Wagoneer’s GCWR at 12,300 lbs.
Cargo Space
The 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer has an interior passenger volume of 172.8 cubic feet, accommodating up to seven or eight adults across three rows of seats. The Grand Wagoneer L offers 179.3 cubic feet of interior passenger volume.
Standard Wheelbase
The Grand Wagoneer offers 28.4 cubic feet of cargo room with the third row in the upright position. Folding the second row expands the available cargo space to nearly 73 cubic feet. Those numbers increase to 96.9 cubic feet by dropping the second and third rows.
Long Wheelbase (Grand Wagoneer L)
If cargo space is a priority, the Grand Wagoneer L offers 44.2 cubic feet of room behind the third row. Folding the third row opens up 88.8 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to a whopping 112.9 cubic feet when both the second and third rows are folded.
With everything folded down, the Grand Wagoneer L can accommodate a 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood.
2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer interior layout. Photo: Stellantis.
Interior Features
All 2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneers have premium equipment, such as leather-trimmed bucket seats, power-folding and reclining third-row seats, heated front and second-row seats, and massaging and ventilated front seats.
The technology upgrades include a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen, navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, a digital instrument display, and a McIntosh audio system with 19 speakers.
The top-of-the-line Grand Wagoneer Series II Obsidian 4×4 ups the ante with a 23-speaker McIntosh audio system, ventilated rear seats, quilted Palermo leather upholstery, and a front passenger display.
Safety Ratings & Features
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer has yet to receive (at the time of this writing) its official safety ratings from NHTSA.
The 2024 Grand Wagoneer is standard with advanced driver assistance systems, such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warnings, forward collision mitigation, automated parking, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera.
Factory Warranty
The Jeep Grand Wagoneer has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. There are options to extend the factory warranty on any Jeep vehicle, including the Grand Wagoneer.
2024 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Starting MSRP
The 2024 Grand Wagoneer is available in 4×4 (base), Series III, Obsidian, and Series III Obsidian. The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each trim level, which includes the $2,000 destination fee.
Trim Level Starting MSRP 4×4 $94,540Obsidian$106,440Series III$115,290Series III Obsidian$116,885
2024 Lexus LX 600
The 2024 Lexus LX 600 remains one of the best large SUVs despite the return of the Prado-based Toyota Land Cruiser to Uncle Sam’s shores. It combines all the strengths of the newest J300 Land Cruiser with a touch of luxury that three-row SUV buyers love—to the point that Kelley Blue Book named the Lexus LX one of its best luxury full-size SUVs for the 2024 model year.
The Lexus LX 600 transitions into 2024 with no significant changes from the 2023 model. It still has a potent turbo V6, four-wheel drive with an electronic locking differential, and a multi-terrain select system.
Meanwhile, the LX 600 has two or three-row seating for up to seven, but the Ultra Luxury offers seating for only four via second-row captain’s chairs.
Powertrain
The 2024 Lexus LX 600 has a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 that generates 409 horsepower and 479 lb-ft. of torque, with most of the twist accessible at just 2,000 rpm.
The numbers are enough to make enthusiasts forget about the old LX’s 383-horsepower 5.7-liter V8, but the Jeep Grand Wagoneer still has a more powerful twin-turbo inline-six.
The Lexus V6 connects to a direct-shift 10-speed automatic that turns all four wheels using a full-time four-wheel drivetrain (4WD) with an electronic locking center differential. F Sport Handling models have front and rear performance-tuned dampers and a Torsen limited-slip differential.
Fuel Economy
With a recommended diet of premium gasoline, the Lexus LX 600 returns an EPA-rated 17 in the city, 22 on the highway, and 19 combined. The Jeep Grand Wagoneer may have more power and torque, but the LX 600 has better fuel economy.
The 2024 Lexus LX 600 has a 21.1-gallon fuel tank.
Max Towing Capacity & GVWR
The Lexus LX 600 can tow up to 8,000 lbs. when properly equipped and has a GVWR of 7,320 lbs. Trailer sway control is standard, but the LX 600 does not have a factory-installed trailer brake controller.
Cargo Space
A seven-seat Lexus LX 600 offers 11 cubic feet of cargo room with the third row in the upright position. Folding the third and second rows reveals up to 44 and 64 cubic feet of storage space, respectively.
If cargo space is a priority, the Ford Expedition, Jeep Grand Wagoneer, and Cadillac Escalade offer more cargo room within their three-row interiors. Of all the body-on-frame SUVs on this best large SUVs list, the LX 600 offers the least amount of cargo space.
2024 Lexus LX 600 interior layout. Photo: Lexus.
Interior Features
Posh is a Lexus hallmark, and the LX 600 delivers with aplomb. The standard equipment includes leather upholstery, a 10-way heated power driver’s seat, open-pore wood trim, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen with a lower seven-inch info display, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Other tech features include up to six USB ports, wireless smartphone charging, an available heads-up display, and a 2,400-watt Mark Levinson stereo with 25 speakers.
Safety Ratings & Features
The 2024 Lexus LX 600 has yet to receive (at the time of this writing) its official safety ratings from NHTSA.
Every 2024 LX is standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.5, which includes a pre-collision system with frontal collision warnings, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian and cyclist detection. When approaching an intersection under certain conditions, the system can recognize an oncoming vehicle when performing a left-hand turn or a pedestrian when performing left and right-hand turns.
Factory Warranty
The 2024 LX has a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty, and complimentary maintenance for one year or 10,000 miles. There are options to extend the factory warranty on any Lexus vehicle, including the LX.
2024 Lexus LX 600 Starting MSRP
The 2024 Lexus LX 600 is available in Base, Premium, F Sport Handling, Luxury, and Ultra Luxury. The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each trim level, which includes the $1,350 destination fee.
Trim Level Starting MSRP Base $95,265Premium$103,215F Sport Handling$109,475Luxury$111,215Ultra Luxury$135,840
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS
The Mercedes-Benz GLS is a seven-seat unibody crossover infused with all the bells and whistles buyers expect from a Mercedes. Instead of being a rough and rugged family SUV, the GLS focuses more on finer things like a calm and quiet ride, a spacious and luxurious interior, and family-friendly tech and safety features.
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS has higher than average customer-verified scores on J.D. Power for quality and reliability and is one of Kelley Blue Book’s best luxury full-size SUVs.
The 2024 GLS has undergone a mild facelift and has received a new steering wheel (with integrated touch-sensitive buttons), two USB ports for second-row occupants, and new paint finishes. The standard inline-six and V8 engines also have more power, thanks to mild hybrid technology.
Powertrain
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 has a standard 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. of torque. The powertrain includes a hybrid integrated starter-generator and a 48V lithium-ion battery that generates an additional 20 horsepower and 148 lb-ft. of torque on demand (this is the “mild hybrid” portion of the powertrain).
Meanwhile, the GLS 580 has a turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 510 horsepower and 538 lb-ft. of torque. The V8 includes the same mild hybrid setup, producing an additional 21 horsepower and 184 lb-ft. of torque.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a standard 4MATIC fully variable all-wheel drivetrain and a nine-speed automatic transmission. The driveline features a multi-disc clutch that sends up to 100 percent of the engine’s torque to the front or rear axles.
The most potent GLS is the Mercedes-AMG GLS 63. It has a 603-horsepower 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 with hybrid assist. The GLS 63 is a seven-seat behemoth that can rush from zero to 60 mph in 4.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 174 mph.
Fuel Economy
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 4MATIC is EPA-rated at 19/24 city/highway and 21 combined.
Meanwhile, the GLS 580 with its turbo V8 returns an EPA-rated 14 in the city, 20 on the highway, and 16 combined. The AMG GLS 63 is lucky to get 16 combined, even with a feather-soft right foot.
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a 23.8-gallon fuel tank.
Max Towing Capacity
The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS is surprisingly capable in the towing department for a unibody crossover, but it’s still not as capable as a body-on-frame SUV.
When properly equipped, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS has a max towing capacity of 7,716 lbs. Those max towing numbers are higher than other large crossovers on this list, like the Kia Telluride and Toyota Grand Highlander.
Cargo Space
The Mercedes-Benz GLS offers 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Folding the third and second rows reveals up to 48.7 and 84.7 cubic feet of storage room, respectively.
Riding on a 123.4-inch wheelbase, the GLS has 34.6 inches of legroom in the third row to better accommodate taller adults.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS interior layout. Photo: MBUSA.
Interior Features
The Mercedes-Benz GLS has a posh interior, to say the least. The GLS 450 has a five-zone automatic climate control system, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, a digital driver’s display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, heated and ventilated front seats, and a Burmester stereo with 13 speakers.
Meanwhile, the GLS 580 has rapid-heating front seats, soft-close doors, heated second-row seats, premium cowhide upholstery, an adaptive air suspension, a five-zone automatic climate control system, and illuminated running boards.
The optional Pinnacle Trim adds a cabin air purification system with fragrance, heated and cooled front cup holders, and an MBUX Interior Assistant, which responds to the driver’s and front passenger’s hand and arm movements for controlling certain in-vehicle functions.
The Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 has genuine Nappa leather seats, a cabin air purifier, heated and cooled front cup holders, and a fragrance dispenser in the cabin.
Safety Ratings & Features
NHTSA and the IIHS (at the time of this writing) have yet to issue their safety ratings for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class. Every GLS has forward collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, evasive steering assistance, and a 360-degree camera.
Factory Warranty
The Mercedes-Benz GLS leaves the Tuscaloosa County, Alabama, plant with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty. Options are available to extend the factory warranty on any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, including the GLS.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS Starting MSRP
The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 starts at $88,150, while the GLS 580 starts at $113,150. The high-performance Mercedes-AMG GLS 63 starts at $147,000. The price figures include the $1,150 destination fee.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander
Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
The 2024 Grand Highlander is not merely a stretched-out version of Toyota’s popular Highlander family SUV. While it does boast a 6.5-inch longer body to reveal 33.5 inches of rear legroom in the third row, this crossover has more aces up its sleeves.
All-new for the 2024 model year, the Toyota Grand Highlander is a standout on our list of best large SUVs. We like it for its reasonable MSRP, available hybrid powertrain, and roomy three-row cabin. The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander is also a member of Kelley Blue Book’s best 3-row SUVs list.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid has all the merits of the gas-only version but with better fuel economy. If you opt for the Hybrid MAX powertrain, you’ll also get more horsepower.
Powertrain
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has three powertrain options, including hybrids.
Non-hybrid variants have a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with 265 horsepower and 310 lb-ft. of torque. Power goes to the front wheels via an eight-speed automatic, but an all-wheel drivetrain comes standard in the range-topping Grand Highlander Platinum (all-wheel drive is optional for XLE and Limited).
Meanwhile, the Grand Highlander Hybrid XLE and Limited have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors that generate 245 combined horsepower on the front wheels, all governed by a continuously variable automatic (CVT). Adding an optional third electric motor provides all-wheel traction.
However, the Hybrid MAX utilizes a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder and two high-strung electric motors to produce a thrilling 362 horsepower and 400 lb-ft. of torque. The Hybrid MAX has a six-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive.
Fuel Economy
The Toyota Grand Highlander’s fuel economy will vary depending on whether it is front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, gas, or hybrid-powered.
Gasoline Models
As a baseline, the gas-only Grand Highlander with front-wheel drive returns an EPA-rated 21 in the city, 28 on the highway, and 24 combined. Most all-wheel drive models are rated at 21 in the city, 27 on the highway, and 23 combined.
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has a 17.8-gallon fuel tank.
Hybrid Models
The hybrid models fare better at the pump. Front-wheel drive hybrids return an EPA-rated 37/34 city/highway and 36 combined, while the Hybrid MAX has a 27 combined mpg rating.
Hybrid Grand Highlanders have a 17.1-gallon fuel tank.
Max Towing Capacity & GVWR
When properly equipped, the Hybrid MAX and gas-only models could tow up to 5,000 lbs. The standard hybrid variant is rated to pull up to 3,500 lbs. Grand Highlander gas and hybrid models come standard with a trailer sway controller.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid MAX has a GVWR of 6,340 lbs. The gas-only and standard hybrid models have a GVWR of up to 6,030 lbs.
Cargo Space
The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander offers 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Folding the third row opens up 57.9 cubic feet of space, while dropping the second row provides 97.5 cubic feet of room, enough to fit mountain bikes or extra luggage in a pinch.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander interior layout. Photo: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
Interior Features
Even the base Toyota Grand Highlander comes pleasantly equipped with premium niceties like tri-zone automatic climate control, seven USB ports, SofTex upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android, wireless smartphone charging, and a six-speaker audio system.
Meanwhile, the top-end Grand Highlander Platinum has interior ambient lighting, a digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch heads-up display, leather-trimmed seats, heated and ventilated second-row seats, and an 11-speaker JBL stereo.
Safety Ratings & Features
At the time of this writing, the 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander has not received its overall safety ratings from NHTSA. The 2024 Grand Highlander received a mixture of Good and Acceptable scores from the IIHS.
All 2024 Grand Highlanders come with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, a collection of advanced driver assistance systems. The package includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist.
The 2024 Grand Highlander has Toyota’s Proactive Driving Assist system. When certain conditions are met, the Grand Highlander will utilize its camera and radar to provide gentle braking into curves or gentle braking and/or steering to help support driving tasks such as distance control between a preceding vehicle, pedestrian, or cyclist.
Factory Warranty
The gas-only Toyota Grand Highlander has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty. All hybrid system components have an eight-year/100,000-mile warranty, while the battery pack is covered for 10 years or 150,000 miles.
All Grand Highlanders come with ToyotaCare, a maintenance package that covers two years or 25,000 miles of servicing and two years of roadside assistance with unlimited mileage.
Options are available to extend the warranty on any Toyota vehicle, including the Grand Highlander.
2024 Toyota Grand Highlander Starting MSRP
The 2024 Grand Highlander is available in both gasoline and hybrid models. The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each trim level, which includes the $1,395 destination fee.
If you want to stay with a Toyota but are not fully sold on the Grand Highlander, the 2024 Toyota Sequoia is also a solid option. It offers a hybrid powertrain, seating for up to eight, and a luxurious Capstone trim level.
Trim Level Starting MSRP XLE $44,715Limited$49,505Platinum$55,190Hybrid XLE$46,415Hybrid Limited$52,805Hybrid MAX Limited$55,785Hybrid MAX Platinum$59,870
2024 Cadillac Escalade
A perennial favorite among luxury SUV shoppers, the 2024 Cadillac Escalade is available in a range of trim levels, including the Sport Platinum and mighty V-Series at the top of the lineup. Available in standard and extended wheelbase (Escalade ESV) variants, the 2024 Escalade offers seating for seven or eight adults and has a muscular V8 engine.
Higher trim levels have the option for a console refrigerator, which is always nice for longer road trips. Magnetic Ride Control is also available for the 2024 Cadillac Escalade, which helps deliver a more refined driving experience.
The Touring Package adds soft closing doors, illuminated sill plates, and an adaptive air ride suspension, while the Onyx Package gives the 2024 Escalade a set of 22-inch gloss black wheels.
Consumer-verified reviews on Kelley Blue Book are mostly positive, while consumer data from J.D. Power shows buyers were happy with Cadillac’s dealership experience.
Powertrain
The Cadillac Escalade has a standard 6.2-liter naturally-aspirated V8 gas engine with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. of torque. Optional is a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel that produces 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. of torque.
Both engines send power to the rear wheels using a 10-speed automatic, although a four-wheel drivetrain (4WD) is available.
If you want to leave other vehicles in the dust with your large family SUV, the Cadillac Escalade-V has a 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft. of torque, enough to sprint from zero to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and run the quarter-mile in under 13 seconds. Four-wheel drive is standard for the Escalade-V.
Fuel Economy
A diesel-powered Cadillac Escalade with rear-wheel drive could return an EPA-rated 21 in the city, 27 on the highway, and 23 combined, making it the fuel-sipper of the lot.
Meanwhile, V8-powered Escalades with 4WD are EPA-rated at 14/18 city/highway and 16 combined. The Escalade-V’s power hike comes with a trade-off, a modest 13 combined mpg in this case.
The standard 2024 Escalade has a 24-gallon gas tank, while the ESV has a 28.3-gallon tank.
Max Towing Capacity & GVWR
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade could tow up to 8,200 lbs. when properly equipped. For all its speed and power, the supercar-baiting Escalade V still has a max tow rating of 7,000 lbs., making it a capable hauler.
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade has a GVWR of 7,600 lbs.
Cargo Space
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade will accommodate seven with second-row captain’s chairs or eight with a second-row bench. A rear cargo organizer that folds flat is optional.
Standard Wheelbase
The standard Cadillac Escalade offers 25.5 cubic feet of cargo room behind the third row, which expands to 72.9 cubic feet when folded. Dropping the second row reveals up to 121 cubic feet of cargo space.
Long Wheelbase (Escalade ESV)
If cargo space is a priority, the longer Escalade ESV offers 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row. Folding the third and second rows unveils 94.1 and 142.8 cubic feet of cargo space, respectively.
The additional cargo space of the ESV is due to it being over 15 inches longer than a standard Escalade.
2024 Cadillac Escalade interior layout. Photo: Cadillac.
Interior Features
True to form, Cadillac gave the 2024 Escalade a generous array of high-end tech and luxury features. It has a 16.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, tri-zone automatic climate control, a cabin air filter, a 19-speaker AKG premium stereo, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a heated steering wheel, and heated front and second-row seats.
Other standard features include HD surround vision cameras with lane lines to assist with parking, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a remote start.
Semi-aniline leather seats with Mondrian quilting, front massaging seats, an auxiliary trailer camera, and a rear-seat entertainment system are optional on higher trim levels.
Super Cruise
With an attentive and engaged driver and under the proper conditions, Super Cruise can permit hands-free operation of the 2024 Escalade on more than 400,000 miles of compatible roadways in the United States and Canada.
As described by Cadillac, Super Cruise can steer the Escalade to maintain lane position or perform a lane change (under certain conditions) while also monitoring your attention to the road.
Super Cruise functions with Onstar and uses real-time precise positioning, cameras, sensors, and LiDAR map data. It’s standard on every 2024 Escalade, except the Luxury trim level.
Safety Ratings & Features
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade earned a four-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.
Every 2024 Escalade is standard with automatic emergency and front pedestrian braking, forward collision alert, rear seat reminder, and rear park assist, which helps reduce collisions when in reverse.
Teen Driver is also standard for the 2024 Escalade. Parents can use this feature to turn on certain safety features and monitor their teen’s driving habits via a designated keyfob.
Factory Warranty
Every Cadillac Escalade leaves the factory with a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Cadillac’s roadside assistance program goes for six years or 70,000 miles.
Options are available to extend the warranty on any Cadillac vehicle, including the Escalade.
2024 Cadillac Escalade Starting MSRP
The 2024 Escalade is available in six trim levels. The chart below shows the starting MSRP for each, which includes the $1,995 destination fee.
If you want to stay within the GM family but are not entirely sold on the Escalade, the Chevrolet Suburban has a host of interior, suspension, and tech updates for the 2025 model year. It’s a similar story for the Chevrolet Tahoe, which is also thoroughly updated for the 2025 model year.
Trim Level Starting MSRP Luxury $88,885Premium Luxury $100,185Sport $103,185Premium Luxury Platinum $117,685Sport Platinum $117,685Escalade-V$154,290
Best Large SUVs Conclusion
The technical definition of a large SUV has evolved to include unibody crossovers that deliver on looks, performance, and pricing.
Unibody crossovers, like the Kia Telluride on this list, are great for buyers who want the style and cargo space of an SUV but the ride and handling dynamics of a sedan. However, if you demand more stout towing capabilities, SUVs with body-on-frame architectures, like the Ford Expedition and Cadillac Escalade on this list, will be a better fit.
Although not listed on this best SUVs list, the 2025 Honda Pilot and 2024 Subaru Ascent are also excellent options if you are in the market for something with three rows. The 2024 Mazda CX-90 is also a solid option.
If you are considering an extended warranty after purchasing a large SUV, ask for sample contracts upfront and read the area where the claims process is explained in detail. Avoid contracts that are not transferable or cannot be canceled easily. To help get the most out of any extended warranty, see these insider tips from a repair shop owner.
Based on reputation, cost, and coverage, Endurance, Olive, CarShield, CARCHEX, autopom!, and Protect My Car are the best car warranty companies today.
Auto Loan Rate Comparision Tool
It’s a good idea to secure your own financing before going to the dealership. The calculator below will help get you started.
Original article: Best Large SUVs (2024 Shopper’s Guide)
