Best diesel SUVs
Diesel SUVs
If you're seeking a rugged and capable vehicle, a diesel SUV could be right for you. You'll get the torque of a diesel engine—which means plenty of pulling power and favorable mpg figures—plus all the benefits of an SUV.
We've compiled a list of the 10 best used diesel-powered SUVs with CarMax customers. Learn more about how our lists work.
1. Jeep Grand Cherokee
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Rugged powertrain Suite of driver aids
Cons
Rigid chassis Overwhelming trim options
2. Jeep Wrangler
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Supremely capable off-road Plenty of customization options from the factory or aftermarket Variety of engine choices Removable doors and soft top or hard top
Cons
Steering can feel slow to react Noticeable wind and tire noise at highway speeds Offers less cargo space than some conventional SUVs
3. Jaguar F-Pace
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Impressive cargo space for its class Sporty handling Powerful drivetrains
Cons
Highway noise can be obtrusive Complex controls Decreased ride comfort on sportier S and SVR trims
4. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Great visibility Multiple power trains available Attractive and tech-heavy interior
Cons
Sub-par agility on the road Minimal in-cabin storage Distracting infotainment system
5. Chevrolet Equinox
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Smooth ride over most road surfaces Stable and precise handling Simple, intuitive infotainment system
Cons
Smaller cargo area than most competitors Center vents near the touchscreen don't distribute the air evenly The interior materials quality is disappointing
6. Land Rover Range Rover Velar
CarMax owner rating
4
Pros
High-end interior Optional six-cylinder engines Refreshed exterior styling for 2024
Cons
Base powertrain isn't that powerful No third-row option Standard suspension can be a bit firm
7. BMW X5
CarMax owner rating
4.6
Pros
Powerful acceleration from all available engines Comfortable and premium-feeling cabin Spacious cargo area and seating
Cons
Compact side mirrors and wide pillars hinder visibility Limited small-item storage Wide doorsills can hinder entry and exit in tight spaces
8. Land Rover Discovery
CarMax owner rating
4.5
9. Chevrolet Tahoe
CarMax owner rating
4.5
Pros
Choice of three power-packed engines Vast cabin with plenty of passenger and cargo space Available all-wheel drive for added versatility
Cons
First and second-row seats could do with more padding Awkward and unintuitive control & button layout inside Down-market feel to parts of the interior
10. GMC Terrain
CarMax owner rating
4.4
Pros
Classy interior environment Composed highway handling Available Bose® sound system
Cons
Cargo storage space trails behind rival small SUVs Acceleration can be sluggish
How we ranked this list
To create our "Best Of" lists, our analysts look at CarMax vehicle and sales data over a recent 6-month period, from September 2023 through February 2024. Looking back over a 6-month period allows for the highest sample size possible while also providing up-to-date pricing information. Some articles may include data points with lower sample sizes.
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RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2006-2020 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features. RepairPal Reliability Ratings are provided by RepairPal and CarMax is not responsible for their accuracy.
Fuel economy figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new. Fuel economy may vary for reasons like driving conditions and vehicle history. Unless specified, figures are for vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission. See fueleconomy.gov.
Range figures are based on EPA estimates for when vehicle sold as new and assume a full battery charge. Range will vary based on things like battery age, vehicle condition and history, driving and charging habits, accessory use, and driving conditions. Battery capacity may decrease with time and use. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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We hope you found this information helpful. This content is intended to inform and is not meant to indicate that a particular vehicle is currently available or recommended for you.
Statements of fuel economy or EV range are based on EPA and other third-party estimates for vehicles when new. Fuel economy and EV range will degrade with time and vary based on age, driving conditions, vehicle history, and other conditions. See fueleconomy.gov for more info.
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