8 Passenger SUV

8 Passenger SUV List

With the number of large 8-passenger SUVs on the market, it can be hard to narrow down the choices of what might be best suited for your needs. Here are some overviews to help you get started.

2012 Ford Expedition

This 8 passenger SUV is well-designed both for hauling passengers and cargo and for towing heavy loads. Thanks to the independent rear suspension — rare in the large SUV segment — the impressive ride quality and confident handling belie the truck-based roots. Seating is spacious and versatile. Four trim levels are available, each with choice of standard length or long-wheelbase, for a total of eight combinations offered. Starting MSRP ranges from $36,205 for the standard length base model to $49,405 for the extended top-of-the-line model, the EL King Ranch.

The Expedition is powered by a 5.4-liter V8 flex-fuel engine that generates 310 horsepower and 365 pounds-feet of torque. Maximum tow rating is 9,200 pounds. Fuel economy is 14 mpg city/20 highway. Read more about the 2012 Ford Expedition.

2012 Chevrolet Traverse

This large crossover blends the hauling capacity of a truck-based SUV with the refined ride and handling of a car or minivan. As such, it lacks the heavy-duty towing power of SUVs such as the Expedition, but it’s a more well-rounded choice for most buyers. The interior is spacious and offers upscale features on upper trim levels, and the Traverse is known for its high safety ratings. Four trim levels are offered, with starting MSRP ranging from $29,430 to $38,805.

The Traverse comes with a 3.6-liter V6 engine that provides 281 horsepower and 266 pounds-feet of torque. It can tow up to 5,200 pounds, and fuel economy is 17 mpg city/24 highway. Read more about the 2012 Chevrolet Traverse

2012 GMC Acadia

As a cousin to the Chevy Traverse, the Acadia pays tribute to GMC’s truck heritage through distinct styling, interior design, and feature availability. It’s more spacious than other large crossovers, but may feel more cumbersome as well. New features for 2012 include hill-hold, additional accessory power outlets, blind spot mirrors integrated into side mirrors, and fog lights. Five trim levels are priced from $32,605 for the base SL trim up to $43,880 for the high-end Denali model.

Standard powertrain includes a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 288 horsepower and 270 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economy is 17 mpg city/24 highway. Read more about the 2012 GMC Acadia

2012 Chevrolet Tahoe and Tahoe Hybrid

Drivers who need a large, traditional (read: truck-based) 8 passenger SUV with lots of towing power will appreciate the Tahoe and Tahoe Hybrid. The comfortable cabin and smooth engine create a surprisingly refined ride for such a tough truck; this is largely thanks to the supple rear suspension. Brisk acceleration and a tight turning circle create impressive maneuverability — as long as you’re not towing the maximum 8,000 pounds. With a traditional gasoline engine, three trim levels range in price from $38,450 to $52,665; the hybrid version starts at $51,145.

The standard workhorse is a 320-horsepower, 5.3-liter V8 flex-fuel engine generating 335 pounds-feet of torque. The alternative is a 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V8 hybrid. Fuel economy is 15 mpg city/21 highway for the gasoline engine and 20/23 mpg for the hybrid.

2012 GMC Yukon and Yukon Hybrid

This truck-based large 8 passenger SUV shares almost everything except styling with the Chevrolet Tahoe and Tahoe Hybrid. And like the Tahoe, the ride, handling, and cabin are more comfortable and refined than you would expect from a truck. This rugged hauler tows up to 8,400 pounds and boasts a smooth, tight suspension. MSRP starts at $38,945 for the Yukon and $52,165 for the hybrid version.

The standard engine is a 5.3-liter V8 flex-fuel engine that creates 320 horsepower and 335 pounds-feet of torque; the high-end trim level uses an upgraded 6.2-liter V8 flex-fuel engine. The hybrid engine is a 6.0-liter V8 that generates 332 horsepower and 367 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economy is 15 mpg city/21 highway for the flex-fuel engine and 20/23 mpg for the hybrid.

2012 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade Hybrid

Who else could successfully combine grandiose luxury with truck-based practicality but Cadillac? The Escalade is designed first and foremost to celebrate wealth and power. For those who can fully appreciate an upgraded version of the Chevy Tahoe, the Escalade offers swift acceleration, comfortable ride quality, and a tight turning circle. Of course, the high power and towing capacity are preserved as well. MSRP starts at $63,170 for the base trim level and ranges up to $79,945 for the top-of-the-line Platinum Edition. The hybrid version, starting at $74,135, offers better fuel economy but sacrifices power.

The standard 6.2-liter V8 flex-fuel engine produces 403 horsepower and 417 pounds-feet of torque; the hybrid engine is a 6.0-liter V8 that makes 332 horsepower. Fuel economy is 14 mpg city/18 highway for the flex-fuel engine and 20/23 mpg for the hybrid model.

2012 Chevrolet Suburban

This 75-year-old truck-based classic features enormous cargo capacity and massive towing power, mixed with a pleasant driving demeanor and comfortable ride. Compared to competitors, it offers a perfect blend of power and spaciousness — especially if you need to haul both people and cargo at the same time. Trim levels are composed of either the 1500 or the heavy-duty 2500 model; each is available as a base or midlevel trim, while the top-shelf trim line is offered only for the 1500. Starting MSRP ranges from $41,915 for the base 1500 model to $54,810 for the high-end 1500.

The 1500 model uses a 320-horsepower 5.3-liter V8 engine that makes 335 pounds-feet of torque. The 2500 upgrades to a 352-horsepower 6.0-liter V8 with 382 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economy depends on the trim and drivetrain: 15 mpg city/21 highway for the two-wheel drive 1500 version or 10/15 mpg for the four-wheel drive 2500 model.

2012 Toyota Sequoia

Image Credit: Toyota Pressroom
Toyota’s largest SUV, also truck-based, is well-known for its user-friendly features, overall refinement, and versatility — both inside and out. The transmission feels precise, and the ride is cushioned comfortably. The suspension handles the heavy hauler admirably, and the tight turning circle affords city-friendly maneuverability. Interior seating can be arranged to maximize passengers, legroom, or cargo as needed; and unlike many competitors, the Sequoia’s third-row seat folds flat into the floor. The starting price ranges from $40,930 to $61,305 depending on the model and engine selected.

Three trim levels are offered with multiple engine choices: a standard 310-horsepower 4.6-liter V8 gasoline engine, an upgraded 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 gasoline engine, or a 5.7-liter V8 flex-fuel engine. Fuel economy is up to 14 mpg city/18 highway. Read more about the 2012 Toyota Sequoia

2012 Lincoln Navigator

This luxury 8 passenger SUV offers a plush ride, upscale cabin, and cosmopolitan styling. Its truck roots allow it to tow heavy loads; combined with the versatile folding third-row seats, it’s a good pick. The engine isn’t quite as powerful as those of some competitors though. Two trim levels are offered, starting at $57,775.

The standard 5.4-liter V8 flex-fuel engine generates 310 horsepower and 365 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economy is 14 mpg city/20 highway.

2013 Lexus LX570

Image Credit: Toyota Pressroom
This luxury SUV successfully pairs rugged off-road capability with expensive luxury and civility. This upgraded version of the Toyota Land Cruiser SUV offers well-balanced ride and respectable handling, as well as the latest technologies integrated into standard features. And Lexus’ reputation for reliability can’t be beat. Properly equipped, the LX570 tows up to 8,500 pounds without breaking a sweat. Only one trim level is available, starting at $80,930.

The 5.7-liter V8 engine creates 383 horsepower and 403 pounds-feet of torque, and fuel economy is 12 mpg city/17 highway.

2012 Nissan Armada

Image Credit: Nissan News
This truck-based SUV, Nissan’s flagship, features an attractive, roomy interior. The engine is more than capable; it tows an impressive 9,100 pounds. The ride is generally comfortable, but driving over some bumps brings out the harsh truck-like suspension. The split third-row seat folds into the floor easily, unlike competitors such as the Tahoe. Three trim models are available, with starting prices ranging from $38,490 to $50,890.

The standard engine is a 5.6-liter V8 gasoline engine that is rated for 317 horsepower and 385 pounds-feet of torque. A flex-fuel version is available as well. Fuel economy is 13 mpg city/19 highway. Read more about the 2012 Nissan Armada

2012 Buick Enclave

This large crossover SUV offers the functionality and handling of a minivan along with interior luxury and classy styling. The smooth and quiet ride, spacious seating, ample cargo space, and impressive crash-test scores make this car a popular choice for families. The Enclave shares a platform with the Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia but makes its splash as the premium model. Like other crossovers, the 4,500-pound towing capacity is markedly less than that of a truck-based SUV. Three trims are offered; starting prices range from $36,600 to $39,715.

The Enclave is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 288 horsepower and 270 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel economy is 17 mpg city/24 highway. Read more about the 2012 Buick Enclave

2011 Toyota Land Cruiser

Image Credit: Toyota Pressroom
Toyota has skipped a 2012 model and will be releasing a redesigned 2013 model. It is a full size luxury SUV which stands out for its off-road abilities and power.