Most fuel efficient mid size SUV, that can tow??

[Ripped]

Hey guys, I am looking for a replacement for my old SUV ('98 durango 5.9). It's fine around town, but has had enough issues on long trips, that it's time to put it to bed. It doesn't get great fuel economy either.

Originally I was thinking of picking up a (used) Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel, but there are a few issues with the 07's so I don't really know if I will go that route, or not.

In your experience, what are decent choices for a full/mid size SUV, from the current models, that have decent gas mileage, and decent towing capacity?

Thanks for any tips or suggestions! :D

[Randy67]

The VW Toureg diesel does pretty good, unfortunately the price may be out of your range.
The 2005-up Durango with 5.7 Hemi gets better gas mileage (co-workers gets 21-22 mpg on highway not towing) and still tows good, it even has better brakes than the earlier one.
Plenty of full-size SUVs out there from GM and Ford, not sure if the gas mileage is good on any of them. Find an older Excursion with the 7.3L Powerstroke, good mileage and plenty of towing power.

[andrewb70]

I don't know if you must have a SUV, but the Ford trucks with the EcoBoost V6 seem to be getting rave reviews. Maybe you can order one as a 4 door? Just a thought.

Andrew

[moreHP]

I think it depends on what you tow. Are you looking to tow something heavy like a car or a camper? Or are you hauling lighter stuff like dirtbikes or a small boat?

Just because some of the mid size vehicles have a decent tow rating, it doesnt really make them all that safe when you tow near those capacities.
The suspensions tend to be a bit soft when loaded to capacity and can get dangerous in a panic stop or a slick road.

[damannhw]

Hey guys, I am looking for a replacement for my old SUV ('98 durango 5.9). It's fine around town, but has had enough issues on long trips, that it's time to put it to bed. It doesn't get great fuel economy either.

Originally I was thinking of picking up a (used) Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel, but there are a few issues with the 07's so I don't really know if I will go that route, or not.

In your experience, what are decent choices for a full/mid size SUV, from the current models, that have decent gas mileage, and decent towing capacity?

Thanks for any tips or suggestions! :D

If you g used, in my opinion, based on many years of used car experience on my Dad's lot, I recommend a Tahoe or Yukon w/ the 5.3. There's very little difference in mid vs full size fuel economy, and in the full size models out there, the GM 5.3's consistently get us the best fuel economy, but don't expect much over 20mpg in anything that can tow, and 15 or less when towing. The 2000-2006 models in 2wd get the best mileage, and are reliable and reasonably priced now.

In current models (I assume you are looking at new), I can't really help you any other than looking at EPA ratings. All the new SUV's have made some pretty big improvements recently though. The Ford/GM/Mopar V8's are all rated at about 20+ now. I won't recommend any imports, because I don't like 'em :)
Good luck.

[Olav]

I have a Tahoe converted to LPG. This have a 5.3 engine. The cost for LPG compared to unleaded is almost half. When it comes to power it's about 85% so it more than enough. I'm pulling a 5000lbs trailer and don't have any problems at all. So a Tahoe with LPG will be a good choise.

Olav