As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the demand for powerful yet efficient vehicles remains strong. V6 SUVs, known for their balance of performance and practicality, are a popular choice for many drivers.
Whether you're looking for a luxury SUV with a V6 engine or a compact model that packs a punch, 2025 promises to deliver some exciting options.
Here's a look at the top V6 SUVs to keep an eye on.
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GLK350_4Matic-2013 V6 engine / Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz.
V6 engines strike an ideal balance between power and fuel efficiency. They offer a significant boost in horsepower over four-cylinder engines, making them perfect for those who need more power for towing or simply enjoy a more spirited drive.
At the same time, they often maintain better fuel economy than larger V8s, making them a practical choice for daily drivers.
2020 Infiniti Q60 coupe V6 engine / Photo Credit: Lake Norman INFINITI.
Performance: V6 engines provide ample power for most driving situations, from city commutes to highway cruising.
Efficiency: While offering more power than smaller engines, V6s are generally more fuel-efficient than V8s.
Versatility: Available in a range of SUV sizes, from compact to large, there's a V6 option for every need.
Photo Credit: Lincoln.
The Aviator has long been a staple in the luxury SUV market, and the 2025 model is no exception. The 2025 Lincoln Aviator offers a powerful and refined driving experience with its standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
This engine provides strong acceleration and smooth performance, making it ideal for both city driving and long-distance travel.
The Aviator also features a 10-speed automatic transmission and available all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and stability.
With its impressive powertrain, the 2025 Lincoln Aviator delivers a blend of luxury, performance, and capability that sets it apart in the luxury SUV segment.
Photo Credit: Mercedes-Benz.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is another standout in the luxury V6 SUV category. Known for its sophisticated design and advanced technology, the 2025 GLE offers a variety of powertrains to suit different preferences.
The base GLE 350 features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower. The GLE 450 comes with a 3.0-liter inline-six engine paired with a mild-hybrid system, producing 362 horsepower.
The GLE 450e plug-in hybrid combines the inline-six engine with an electric motor, delivering 429 horsepower and over 50 miles of all-electric range.
For high-performance enthusiasts, the AMG GLE 53 offers a 3.0-liter inline-six engine with an electric motor, generating 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque.
Photo Credit: Ford.
The Ford Explorer is a classic choice for families needing a spacious and reliable SUV. The 2025 model offers two impressive powertrains.
The base engine is a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, the available twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine produces 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines are paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission. The Explorer comes with standard rear-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
These powertrains provide strong acceleration, smooth performance, and the capability to tow up to 5,600 pounds when properly equipped.
Photo Credit: Toyota.
For those in need of a large SUV with ample cargo space, the 2025 Toyota Sequoia is worth considering. It features a powerful i-FORCE MAX twin-turbo V6 hybrid drivetrain, delivering 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque.
This hybrid powertrain combines a 3.5-liter V6 engine with an electric motor, providing impressive performance and efficiency.
The Sequoia's hybrid system offers enhanced fuel economy, making it a more environmentally friendly option without compromising power.
Additionally, the Sequoia boasts a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,520 pounds, making it a versatile choice for both family adventures and heavy-duty tasks.
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Photo Credit: Jeep.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has a reputation for being a rugged and capable SUV, and the 2025 model lives up to that reputation.
The 2025 Grand Cherokee offers two primary powertrains. The base engine is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6, delivering 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
For those seeking more efficiency, the 4xe plug-in hybrid combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 375 horsepower and offering an all-electric range of 26 miles.
Both powertrains provide strong performance and versatility, making the Grand Cherokee suitable for various driving conditions and preferences.
The 2025 Chevrolet Blazer offers two primary powertrains. The base engine is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
For those seeking more power, the available 3.6-liter V6 engine produces 308 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance.
The Blazer comes with standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. These powertrains offer a balance of efficiency and power, making the Blazer a versatile choice for various driving needs.
Crossovers blend the best features of SUVs and cars, offering a comfortable ride with the added benefit of higher ground clearance and more cargo space. In 2025, several V6 crossovers stand out.
Photo Credit: Acura.
The 2025 Acura MDX offers two primary powertrains. The base engine is a 3.5-liter V6, delivering 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
For those seeking more power, the MDX Type S features a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains provide strong performance and smooth acceleration.
The MDX also offers Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) for enhanced traction and stability, making it a versatile and capable luxury SUV.
Photo Credit: Honda.
The Honda Passport is another excellent V6 crossover to watch in 2025. The 2025 Passport features a robust 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance. The Passport comes with standard all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Additionally, the Passport offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for both daily driving and outdoor adventures.
Reliability is a crucial factor when choosing a vehicle, and several V6 SUVs are renowned for their dependability.
Photo Credit: Kia.
The Kia Telluride has gained a reputation for reliability, and the 2025 model continues this trend. The 2025 Telluride features a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance. The Telluride comes with standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
It offers a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it a versatile choice for both daily driving and family adventures.
Photo Credit: Hyundai.
The Hyundai Palisade is another reliable option, offering a V6 engine and a well-appointed interior. The 2025 Palisade offers two primary powertrains.
It has a 3.8-liter V-6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It comes with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
For those seeking more efficiency, the hybrid option combines the 2.5-liter turbo engine with dual electric motors, producing 334 horsepower. Both powertrains are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive performance.
The Palisade comes with standard front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive available as an option. These powertrains offer a balance of power and efficiency, making the Palisade a versatile choice for various driving needs.