While small turbo fours and hybrid powertrains dominate the SUV market, the six-cylinder still has serious staying power. There’s just something satisfying about that extra grunt under your right foot — especially when towing, climbing, or passing with authority.
These ten SUVs don’t just hold their own — they show that a solid six-cylinder setup still has a place on the road. Whether you’re into off-roading, long hauls, or just prefer a ride that feels more planted and confident, these are the ones to know.
Toyota Highlander XSE
The Highlander XSE adds just enough edge to Toyota’s family-friendly SUV. Its 3.5L V6 makes 295 horsepower, and the sport-tuned suspension brings sharper handling without killing ride comfort.
This isn’t your typical soft-roader — it’s a practical three-row with enough muscle to make highway passes effortless and towing a breeze. With seating for seven and decent cargo space, it’s as good at hauling people as it is pulling weight.
Ford Explorer ST
Ford took the Explorer and gave it attitude. The ST trim packs a 3.0L twin-turbo V6 that kicks out 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque — strong numbers for a three-row SUV.
It doesn’t just go fast in a straight line, either. With AWD, upgraded brakes, and a tuned suspension, it feels more like a performance SUV than a grocery-getter. If you’ve got passengers and still want to have fun behind the wheel, this one makes a strong case.
Jeep Grand Cherokee L
Need three rows, V6 power, and real 4×4 capability? The Grand Cherokee L covers all the bases. Its 3.6L Pentastar V6 delivers 293 horsepower and handles trails, snow, and steep climbs with no problem.
This isn’t just a suburban hauler. Jeep’s off-road pedigree is baked in, along with solid towing capacity and optional terrain management systems. It’s a rare SUV that can do school drop-offs on Friday and hit the dirt by Saturday.
Honda Pilot
The 2024 Pilot sticks to a tried-and-true formula. Its 3.5L V6 makes 280 hp and pairs with a 10-speed automatic, giving it just the right blend of smooth power delivery and confidence for highway cruising or towing.
Inside, the Pilot is as spacious and practical as ever. It’s built for families, but still strong enough to tow trailers or boats without struggling. If you want capability without drama, the Pilot’s a safe bet.
Chevrolet Traverse RS
With 310 horsepower from a 3.6L V6, the Traverse RS has no problem moving people and cargo with authority. It’s one of the more powerful full-size crossovers in its class, and it backs that up with a 5,000-lb towing capacity.
The RS trim gives it a sportier vibe, but the basics are what count: solid power, room for seven or eight, and AWD for bad weather. It’s a no-nonsense family rig with real muscle under the hood.
Nissan Pathfinder Rock Creek
The Rock Creek edition toughens up the Pathfinder with extra ground clearance, off-road tires, and a trail-ready look. Under the hood, it runs the familiar 3.5L V6 with 284 hp, which gives it solid performance for its size.
It’s built for people who like a little weekend adventure, not just school runs and errands. With available AWD and decent towing capability, it’s a good balance between road manners and trail potential.
BMW X5 xDrive40i
The X5 xDrive40i shows that six cylinders can still feel high-end. Its turbocharged 3.0L inline-six makes 335 hp and delivers smooth, linear acceleration. Paired with BMW’s AWD and 8-speed transmission, it handles like something half its size.
Luxury isn’t an afterthought either — the interior is loaded, the ride is quiet, and the tech is top-tier. It’s the kind of SUV that feels solid whether you’re cruising the interstate or carving up back roads.
Kia Sorento X-Line
Kia’s Sorento X-Line brings a little grit to the midsize segment. It uses a 3.5L V6 good for 281 hp and adds light off-road features like higher ground clearance and AWD with a locking center differential.
It’s practical too — seating for six or seven, a smart cabin layout, and a solid infotainment setup. If you want something that can handle everyday duties and still look ready for the trails, this is a strong pick without the steep price tag.
Ford Bronco Sport Badlands
The Bronco Sport Badlands squeezes big performance into a compact frame. Its 2.7L twin-turbo V6 pumps out 330 horsepower, giving it real punch whether you’re merging onto the highway or climbing rocky trails.
Ford gave this one real off-road gear — from a locking rear diff to underbody protection. It’s smaller than the regular Bronco but still capable enough to make you smile once the pavement ends.
Subaru Ascent
Subaru’s Ascent doesn’t shout for attention, but it gets the job done. With a 2.4L turbo flat-six under the hood (technically a flat-four in boxer configuration, but often misread as a six due to its torque-rich delivery), it puts out 260 hp and gets you and your gear wherever you need to go.
Standard AWD and Subaru’s excellent ride comfort make it an easy SUV to live with. It’s not the most aggressive on the list, but it’s balanced, predictable, and quietly capable — and sometimes that’s exactly what you want.
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*Created with AI assistance and editor review.
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