The sports utility vehicle has been a staple of the American automotive industry for years, and instead of fading into obscurity, the SUV remains one of the top-rated body styles on the US market today - and, the popularity of V8 SUVs hasn’t dwindled, either. SUVs come in various configurations, but we’re focusing on those powered by mighty 8-cylinder. SUVs with V8 engines typically pull more, carry more, and do it all at a faster pace than their smaller capacity counterparts. So, which 8-cylinder SUV is the strongest, quickest, or best balanced? Read on to find out.

Choosing an SUV with a V8

If you’re after an SUV with a V8 under the hood, here are a few key things to consider:

• Determine your needs: Do you need a large ute or would a small variant suffice? Some new crossovers offer the best of both worlds without breaking the bank. This ties in with what you have in your budget and what starting price you should be perusing. Top-end variants can be pricey, especially new top-rated models..
• Do you need a four-wheel drive? If you’re a lover of the great outdoors, then you should consider getting a 4x4 capable car, especially if you want to hit some serious off-road trails. Cars such as the Land Rover Range Rover would be a good choice, then.
• Lifestyle factors: Most ute owners in the USA in the year 2023 use these machines for the daily commute, ferrying the kids around and doing the monthly shopping run - so if that’s all you’ll be doing, then there’s no need to look at hardcore offroaders or those that can tow a house.
• How much do you want to pay for gas? Fuel economy will play a big part in the purchasing decision, but in terms of SUVs with V8 motors, you know they won’t be as efficient, and the cost of gas will be more than a lighter, less bulky auto. Still, there has been progress made in terms of being efficient with gasoline.
• Safety and reliability - SUVs with such monstrous engines tend to be sturdy, which already gives them an advantage in a crash situation against other cars. You will also find that autos produced from 2019, all the way through to upcoming 2024 models include the same safety tech that you’ll find in sedans and hatchbacks, and sometimes even more. Additionally, they tend to be reliable, which may vary from brand to brand, and you’d benefit from individual reviews and safety pick lists.

V8 SUV Models that made our ‘Best of’ List

V8 SUVs are still a popular choice for many Americans, and with good reason: they offer good interior space, and enough strength to haul heavy loads. They are also capable of light to heavy offroad use, but suffer in terms of fuel economy. Some of the derivatives that made our Best V8 SUV roster include the following:

• Cadillac Escalade
• BMW X7
• Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class
• Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk
• BMW X5 M

Advantages and Disadvantages

There are a few advantages and disadvantages to consider when looking to purchase an SUV with a V8 engine:

Pros

• Lots of available grunt
• They sound good
• Increased towing capacity
• Macho image
• Good highway cruising ability

Cons

• Contributes to a heavy curb weight
• Gas mileage suffers
• It’s not exactly environmentally friendly

FAQs

How much does a V8 SUV tow?

A major benefit of owning an eight-cylinder SUV is that the towing capacity tends to be above average, which is perfect for people who tow boats and heavy trailers regularly. One such beast is the Cadillac Escalade that will pull up to 8,100 lbs.

What is the fastest eight-cylinder SUV?

Quick SUVs are nothing new, but they sure are more brisk than ever before. Some high-performance iterations reach sixty miles per hour in less than four seconds. The Bentley Bentayga Speed, sold in the US, is currently ranked highest here, and it accelerates to sixty in only 3.1 seconds and continues on to a claimed top speed of 190 mph.

What is the best off-road V8 SUV?

Doing tons of off-road mileage is hard-wearing on any type of car, so in order to find one the best, we would go with the tried and trusted Land Rover Range Rover, which not only offers strong on-road performance and tons of luxury, but also climbs trails you wouldn’t think possible.