The rumble of a powerful engine, the promise of hauling anything and going anywhere – for many, that’s the quintessential American automotive dream. But let’s be brutally honest for a moment: in an era where fuel efficiency is not just a nice-to-have but an absolute necessity, holding onto that dream often feels less like a joyride and more like a financial nightmare. We’re talking about the beasts that drink fuel faster than a frat party goes through a keg, leaving owners with that sinking feeling of dread every time the gas light flickers on.
You know the feeling, don’t you? That moment of self-reflection at the pump, watching the dollar signs tick upwards like a lottery jackpot that only you are losing. It’s the “shame in every refuel” that hits harder than a speed bump you didn’t see. With average “good” MPG for passenger cars now “hovering around 25-30 MPG in mixed driving conditions,” according to Rob Dillan, founder of EVhype.com, anything significantly below that threshold isn’t just inefficient—it’s actively attacking your wallet and, let’s be real, the planet.
Today, we’re not just highlighting cars with poor fuel economy; we’re delving into the confessions of owners who, given the chance, would hit the “undo” button on their purchase for a vehicle that doesn’t demand a second mortgage just to get to the grocery store. These aren’t just statistics; these are the automotive regrets, the heavy-metal mistakes that continue to drain bank accounts. So, buckle up, because we’re about to call out 12 notorious gas guzzlers that have left their owners wishing they had chosen a path less thirsty.
1. **Ford Expedition: The Spacious Thirst**The Ford Expedition, a behemoth of an SUV, has always been lauded for its cavernous interior and a powertrain that means business. It’s the go-to for families with a boatload of gear or a need to ferry an entire soccer team. However, that impressive capability comes with a rather significant asterisk, one that flashes brightly every time you pull up to the gas station. Its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, while certainly powerful, delivers a rather disheartening “17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.”
Now, let’s put that into perspective. In its class, that fuel efficiency is “among the lowest.” You buy a large SUV for space and grunt, but you don’t expect to hemorrhage cash every few days just to maintain forward momentum. With the starting price for an Expedition hovering “around $54,000,” you’re making a “considerable investment” upfront. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg when you consider the “high ongoing costs” associated with its voracious appetite for fuel.
It’s a tough pill to swallow: paying a premium for a vehicle that then demands another premium just to keep running. Rising fuel prices only exacerbate this pain, turning what was once a practical family hauler into a genuine financial burden. The convenience of its ample power and towing capacity quickly fades when you’re constantly calculating the cost per mile, making the Expedition a prime candidate for the “unbuy” list for many owners.
Car Model Information: 2019 Ford Expedition XL
Name: Ford Expedition
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Production: 1996–present
ModelYears: 1997–present
Class: Full-size car,Sport utility vehicle
Related: Lincoln Navigator
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Predecessor: Ford Bronco,Ford Excursion
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Ford Expedition is a full-size SUV produced by Ford Motor Company since the 1997 model year. The successor to the Ford Bronco, the Expedition shifted its form factor from an off-road oriented vehicle to a truck-based station wagon. Initially competing against the Chevrolet Tahoe, the Expedition also competes against the Toyota Sequoia, Nissan Armada, and the Jeep Wagoneer.
First used for a 1992 F-150 concept vehicle, Ford first marketed the Expedition nameplate for 1995 on a trim level package for the two-door Ford Explorer Sport. As with its Bronco predecessor, the Expedition is heavily derives its chassis from the Ford F-150, differing primarily in suspension configuration. All five generations of the Expedition have served as the basis of the Lincoln Navigator–the first full-size luxury SUV. The model line is produced in two wheelbases (an extended-wheelbase variant introduced was introduced for 2007, largely replacing the Ford Excursion), with seating for up to eight passengers.
Ford currently assembles the Expedition at its Kentucky Truck Assembly facility (Louisville, Kentucky) alongside the Lincoln Navigator and Super Duty trucks. Prior to 2009, the model line was assembled by the Michigan Assembly Plant (Wayne, Michigan).
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Brand: Ford Model: Expedition
Price: $18,998 Mileage: 97,032 mi.
2. **Chevrolet Suburban: The King of Cargo, The Prince of Pain at the Pump**Ah, the Chevrolet Suburban. It’s an American icon, the undisputed champion of cargo space and seating capacity, comfortably swallowing “up to nine passengers.” For decades, it’s been the choice for large families, road trippers, and anyone who needs to move a small army—or at least their luggage. But beneath that undeniable utility lies a dark secret, one whispered in hushed tones at gas stations across the nation: its abysmal fuel economy.
Propelled by a robust “5.3-liter V8 engine,” the Suburban delivers a meager “15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.” This isn’t just a minor inefficiency; it’s a significant drawback that turns every road trip into a financial expedition of its own. Imagine loading up the family for a cross-country adventure, only to realize a substantial portion of your vacation budget is being poured directly into the tank, not onto the experiences.
With a starting price of “around $56,000,” the Suburban demands a serious commitment before you even turn the key. Add to that its persistent thirst for gasoline, and you’ve got a vehicle that, despite its practicality for hauling, becomes “a less attractive option for those concerned about fuel expenses.” It’s the classic trade-off: unparalleled space and power, but at a cost that makes many owners regret not exploring more fuel-conscious alternatives.
Car Model Information: 2021 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD Z71
Name: Chevrolet Suburban,GMC Yukon XL
Caption: 2015 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LTZ
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: Chevrolet Veraneio (Brazil, 1964–1995),GMC Carryall (1960–1972),GMC Suburban (1937–1999),GMC Yukon XL (from 2000),Holden Suburban (Australia/New Zealand, 1998–2001)
Production: 1934–present
Class: Full-size,station wagon
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Related: ubl
Categories: 1940s cars, 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars
Summary: The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of SUVs built by Chevrolet. The longest-produced automobile nameplate in the world, the Suburban has been made since 1934, and is currently in its twelfth generation (2021–present). Beginning life as one of the first metal-bodied station wagons, the Suburban is the progenitor of the modern full-size sport utility vehicle, combining a wagon-style body with the chassis and powertrain of a pickup truck. Alongside its Advance Design, Task Force, and C/K predecessors, the Chevrolet Silverado currently shares chassis and mechanical commonality with the Suburban and other trucks.
Traditionally one of the most profitable vehicles sold by General Motors, the Suburban has been marketed through both Chevrolet and GMC for nearly its entire production. Along sharing the Suburban name with Chevrolet, GMC has used several nameplates for the model line; since 2000, the division has marketed it as the GMC Yukon XL, while since 2003 Cadillac has marketed the Suburban as the Cadillac Escalade ESV. During the 1990s, GM Australia marketed right-hand drive Suburbans under the Holden brand.
The Suburban is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Chile, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Peru, Philippines, and the Middle East (except Israel), while the Yukon XL is sold only in North America (exclusive to the United States, Canada, and Mexico) and the Middle East territories (except Israel).
A 2018 iSeeCars.com study identified the Chevrolet Suburban as the car that is driven the most each year. A 2019 iSeeCars.com study named the Chevrolet Suburban the second-ranked longest-lasting vehicle. In December 2019, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled a Hollywood Walk of Fame star for the Suburban, noting that the Suburban had been in “1,750 films and TV shows since 1952.”
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Brand: Chevrolet Model: Suburban
Price: $54,395 Mileage: 74,345 mi.
Read more about: Beyond the Odometer: Unpacking 3 Key Traits and 14 SUVs Built to Conquer 250,000 Miles and Beyond
3. **GMC Yukon XL: Luxury, Space, and an Unquenchable Thirst**Stepping up the ladder of automotive grandeur, we encounter the GMC Yukon XL. Much like its Chevrolet sibling, the Suburban, the Yukon XL offers a compelling blend of “luxury features and a spacious interior.” It’s designed to transport you and your entourage in comfort, perhaps even with a touch more refinement than its stablemate. Yet, when it comes to fuel efficiency, it’s singing the same, sorrowful tune.
Underneath its polished exterior, the Yukon XL houses a “5.3-liter V8 engine,” mirroring the Suburban’s powertrain. This translates to an identical and equally unimpressive “15 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.” For a vehicle that starts “at approximately $60,000,” you’d hope for a bit more consideration for your ongoing operating budget. Instead, you’re faced with a substantial initial outlay followed by relentless fuel bills.
The allure of luxury quickly fades when the reality of “high fuel consumption makes it expensive to run.” Families and individuals who might be drawn to its upscale amenities and expansive interior soon find themselves caught in a cycle of frequent, costly refills. This combination of a premium price tag and relentless fuel demands solidifies the Yukon XL’s place on the list of vehicles that many owners wish they could simply un-purchase for something more fiscally sensible.
Car Model Information: 2020 Lexus RX 350 Base
Name: Chevrolet Suburban,GMC Yukon XL
Caption: 2015 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LTZ
Manufacturer: General Motors
Aka: Chevrolet Veraneio (Brazil, 1964–1995),GMC Carryall (1960–1972),GMC Suburban (1937–1999),GMC Yukon XL (from 2000),Holden Suburban (Australia/New Zealand, 1998–2001)
Production: 1934–present
Class: Full-size,station wagon
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Related: ubl
Categories: 1940s cars, 1950s cars, 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars
Summary: The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of SUVs built by Chevrolet. The longest-produced automobile nameplate in the world, the Suburban has been made since 1934, and is currently in its twelfth generation (2021–present). Beginning life as one of the first metal-bodied station wagons, the Suburban is the progenitor of the modern full-size sport utility vehicle, combining a wagon-style body with the chassis and powertrain of a pickup truck. Alongside its Advance Design, Task Force, and C/K predecessors, the Chevrolet Silverado currently shares chassis and mechanical commonality with the Suburban and other trucks.
Traditionally one of the most profitable vehicles sold by General Motors, the Suburban has been marketed through both Chevrolet and GMC for nearly its entire production. Along sharing the Suburban name with Chevrolet, GMC has used several nameplates for the model line; since 2000, the division has marketed it as the GMC Yukon XL, while since 2003 Cadillac has marketed the Suburban as the Cadillac Escalade ESV. During the 1990s, GM Australia marketed right-hand drive Suburbans under the Holden brand.
The Suburban is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Chile, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Peru, Philippines, and the Middle East (except Israel), while the Yukon XL is sold only in North America (exclusive to the United States, Canada, and Mexico) and the Middle East territories (except Israel).
A 2018 iSeeCars.com study identified the Chevrolet Suburban as the car that is driven the most each year. A 2019 iSeeCars.com study named the Chevrolet Suburban the second-ranked longest-lasting vehicle. In December 2019, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled a Hollywood Walk of Fame star for the Suburban, noting that the Suburban had been in “1,750 films and TV shows since 1952.”
Get more information about: Chevrolet Suburban
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Brand: GMC Model: Yukon XL
Price: $30,981 Mileage: 81,179 mi.
4. **Toyota Sequoia: Robust Reliability, Questionable Economy**Toyota has built an enviable reputation for reliability, and the Sequoia, a full-size SUV, certainly embodies that robustness. It’s a vehicle known for its “robust performance and reliability,” capable of tackling tough tasks and lasting for ages. However, even the most steadfast vehicles have their Achilles’ heel, and for the Sequoia, it’s undeniably its fuel economy. This isn’t just a minor oversight; it’s a glaring design choice that leaves many owners scratching their heads.
Powering this durable beast is a hefty “5.7-liter V8 engine,” which, despite its strength, delivers a truly meager “13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.” These figures are low enough to raise eyebrows even a few years ago, let alone in today’s increasingly fuel-conscious market. The notion of long-term reliability is fantastic, but the financial strain of constantly filling its tank can easily offset any perceived savings from its longevity.
With a starting price “around $51,000,” the Sequoia isn’t a cheap date, and its “ongoing fuel costs can quickly add up.” For those who are trying to “manage their fuel expenses effectively,” the Sequoia becomes “less appealing.” It forces owners into a difficult position: appreciate the bulletproof mechanics, but constantly dread the journey to the nearest gas station. This dichotomy makes it a prime candidate for buyer’s remorse, pushing owners to lament their initial choice in the pursuit of better MPG.
Car Model Information: 2012 Toyota Sequoia Platinum
Name: Toyota Sequoia
Manufacturer: Toyota
Production: September 2000 – present
ModelYears: 2001–present
Class: Full-size SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: unbulleted list
Related: unbulleted list
Sp: us
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles containing potentially dated statements
Summary: The Toyota Sequoia is a full-size SUV manufactured by Toyota mainly for the North American market since 2000 for the 2001 model year, being derived from the Tundra pickup truck. It is the second largest SUV ever produced under the Toyota brand, after the Japan-exclusive, military-focused Mega Cruiser.
Previously manufactured at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana in Princeton, Indiana between 2000 and 2021, and then in Toyota Motor Manufacturing Texas in San Antonio, Texas since 2022, the Sequoia is the first vehicle from a Japanese marque in the popular mainstream full-sized SUV class in North America, and initial planning done by first-generation Sequoia chief engineer Kaoru Hosokawa aimed the Sequoia directly at the Ford Expedition, Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon, and other full-size SUVs.
Up until the 2021 model year, the Sequoia was slotted between the mid-size 4Runner and the premium Land Cruiser in the North American Toyota SUV lineup. With the discontinuation of North American sales of the Land Cruiser from the 2022 model year onward, the Sequoia became the flagship SUV in Toyota’s North America lineup.
As of 2021, the Sequoia is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica. It is offered in left-hand drive only.
The Sequoia is named after the Giant Sequoia, a species of tall redwood trees native to California.
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Brand: Toyota Model: Sequoia
Price: $16,995 Mileage: 209,986 mi.
5. **Nissan Armada: The Comfortable Crusader with a Thirsty Secret**The Nissan Armada, a formidable large SUV, has, surprisingly enough, “racked up some pretty impressive awards” since its debut in 2004, including “SUV of the Year by Popular Mechanics” and “Kelly Blue Book’s Five-Year Cost to Own Award.” This makes its presence on our list even more ironic, as despite its accolades for ownership costs over a five-year span, its day-to-day fuel consumption is nothing short of eye-watering. The public perception and the reality of refueling often diverge sharply.
Beneath its comfortable facade and “powerful 5.6-liter V8 engine, which produces 400 horsepower,” lies a deep-seated thirst. The Armada “only manages 14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.” These numbers squarely place its “fuel efficiency as one of the worst in its class,” a direct contradiction to any claims of economical ownership. While it promises “a comfortable ride and plenty of space,” that comfort comes at a very literal price paid at the pump.
Consumer Reports, in particular, hasn’t been shy about pointing out the Armada’s shortcomings, noting that the “2019 and 2020 model years both leave a lot to be desired.” They even described the 2019 model as “clumsy” to handle, burdened by “slow steering and pronounced body roll,” criticisms that applied to the 2020 model as well. Coupled with its starting price “around $52,000,” the “high fuel costs” transform the Armada into a “less economical choice,” making owners reconsider their loyalty despite any past awards.
Car Model Information: 2024 Nissan Armada Platinum
Caption: 2023 Nissan Armada
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Nissan Patrol
Production: 2003–present
ModelYears: 2004–present
Class: Full-size,sport utility vehicle
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Nissan Armada (originally badged as the Nissan Pathfinder Armada) is a full-size SUV manufactured by Nissan for the North American market, since 2003 for the 2004 model year.
From 2003 to 2015, the first-generation Armada was assembled in Canton, Mississippi based on the Nissan Titan. From mid-2016 onwards, the second-generation Armada is built in Yukuhashi, Kyushu, Japan. It shares the same platform as the Nissan Patrol, with American-specific modifications, and went on sale in mid-2016 as a 2017 model. A luxury version of the Armada has been sold as the Infiniti QX80 (originally QX56).
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Brand: Nissan Model: Armada
Price: $49,990 Mileage: 8,556 mi.
6. **Jeep Grand Wagoneer: The Luxury Liner’s Financial Leak**The Jeep Grand Wagoneer represents the pinnacle of luxury and technology within the Jeep brand, a grand return to opulence. It’s a vehicle that promises a premium experience, filled with “luxurious features and advanced technology,” designed to coddle its occupants in every conceivable way. It’s a statement piece, a declaration of status and capability. However, like many vehicles in this segment, its declaration of power comes with an undeniable whisper of “fuel economy be damned.”
Under the hood, the Grand Wagoneer boasts a formidable “6.4-liter V8 engine producing 471 horsepower.” This engine certainly delivers on the power front, ensuring a smooth and commanding drive. But it does so at an alarming rate of consumption, achieving a dismal “13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway.” For a luxury SUV, where one might expect some engineering marvels to mitigate such thirst, these figures are “notably poor.”
The price of entry for such an extravagant ride is steep, with a starting tag “around $89,000.” This already signifies “a significant financial commitment.” When you factor in the relentless “high fuel costs” that become a daily reality, the total cost of ownership spirals into the stratosphere. It becomes clear that the Grand Wagoneer, despite its lavish comforts, is a vehicle that leaves many owners with a burning question: was all that luxury truly worth the constant financial drain at the pump? The opulent experience dims considerably when it’s shadowed by the persistent dread of refueling.
Alright, so we’ve kicked off our tour through the automotive hall of shame, exposing the initial crop of thirsty beasts that have owners reaching for their wallets and, quite possibly, a therapist. But the gas-guzzling saga doesn’t end there. As we peel back another layer of automotive aspiration versus brutal reality, we’re diving into six more luxurious and powerful machines that, despite their undeniable appeal, are draining bank accounts faster than they can hit sixty. The conversation isn’t just about personal finance anymore; it’s about the environmental impact, a shifting consumer conscience, and the undeniable pang of buyer’s remorse.
Car Model Information: 2020 Lexus RX 350 Base
Name: Jeep Wagoneer
Aka: Jeep Grand Wagoneer
Caption: 1990 Jeep Grand Wagoneer (SJ)
Manufacturer: Jeep
Class: Full-size SUV
Production: 1962–1993,2021–present
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive
Chassis: ubl
Categories: 1960s cars, 1970s cars, 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer are a sport utility vehicle (SUV) nameplate of Jeep vehicles, with several models marketed for the 1963 through 1993 model years and again since the 2022 model year.
Various versions of the Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer were manufactured in the US and other nations by Kaiser Motors (1962−1971), by American Motors (1971−1987), by Chrysler (1987−1993), and Stellantis from 2021.
A revival of the Jeep Wagoneer was introduced as a concept version on September 3, 2020, and as the production model on March 11, 2021. Sales began in the second half of 2021 for the 2022 model year. In 2024, Jeep added an all-electric vehicle called the Wagoneer S to the lineup.
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Brand: Jeep Model: Grand Wagoneer
Price: $30,981 Mileage: 81,179 mi.
7. **Cadillac Escalade: Opulence, Thirst, and a Hard Pill to Swallow**The Cadillac Escalade. Just the name conjures images of luxury, status, and an interior so opulent you might forget you’re stuck in traffic. It’s the go-to for those who demand advanced technology and a plush ride, a statement piece that screams success. But beneath that gleaming chrome and leather-lined cabin lies a secret that whispers of regret every time the fuel gauge dips towards empty.
This luxury full-size SUV is powered by a formidable “6.2-liter V8 engine.” While it provides ample motivation for such a sizable vehicle, it unfortunately delivers a rather disheartening “14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.” These figures are not just disappointing; they’re a stark reminder that even peak luxury often comes with a significant, ongoing financial penalty at the fuel pump.
With a starting price tag of “approximately $76,000,” the Escalade is already a substantial investment. And while its lavish features might initially blind owners to its inefficiencies, the “high fuel consumption adds to the overall cost of ownership,” turning what should be a comfortable cruise into a series of expensive stops. For buyers who, despite their desire for luxury, are becoming increasingly “fuel-conscious,” the Escalade rapidly morphs into a “less practical” choice, leaving them to wonder if all that lavishness was truly worth the constant financial drain.
Car Model Information: 2020 Cadillac Escalade Platinum
Name: Cadillac Escalade
Caption: Fifth generation Cadillac Escalade
Manufacturer: Cadillac
Production: 1998–present,2002–present (ESV),2001–2013 (EXT),2008–2013 (Hybrid)
ModelYears: 1999–2000,2002–present
Class: Full-size,luxury car,sport utility vehicle
Related: ubl
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel drive layout
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles in need of updating
Summary: The Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV manufactured by General Motors and marketed by Cadillac as its first major entry into the SUV market. The Escalade was introduced for the 1999 model year in response to an influx of new luxury SUVs in the late 1990s including the Mercedes-Benz M-Class, Range Rover, Lexus LX, and Ford’s 1998 debut of the Lincoln Navigator. The Escalade project went into production only ten months after it was approved. The Escalade is built in Arlington, Texas.
The term “escalade” refers to a siege warfare tactic of scaling defensive walls or ramparts with the aid of ladders or siege towers. More generally, it is a French word which is the noun-equivalent form of the French verb escalader, which means “to climb or scale”.
The Escalade is currently sold in North America and select international markets (Europe and Asia) where Cadillac has official sales channels. The Escalade ESV (Escalade Stretch Vehicle) is sold in North America, Russia, and the Middle East, but is only available by special order in some international markets. The right-hand-drive Escalade and Escalade ESV are available through third-party conversion specialists without official agreement with Cadillac in Australian, Oceanic, and Japanese markets.
On August 8, 2023, GM presented the Escalade IQ, an all-electric version of the Escalade, and the third model in Cadillac’s EV line, after the Celestiq, and Lyriq. It is expected to go on sale in late 2024 for the 2025 model year, with a starting price of $130,000.
The Escalade has gone through five generations, the most recent (the fifth) prsented in 2021, noted for its technology and self-driving capability. The fifth generation Escalade is nearly two metres high, and was criticized by The Verge for its excessive size and hazard to pedestrians.
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Brand: Cadillac Model: Escalade
Price: $43,087 Mileage: 90,884 mi.
8. **Dodge Durango SRT: Performance Punch, Wallet Pinch**Now, let’s talk about the Dodge Durango SRT. This isn’t just an SUV; it’s a muscle car in SUV clothing, a performance-oriented beast designed to thrill. With a monstrous “6.4-liter V8 engine that produces 475 horsepower,” it promises impressive acceleration and handling that belies its size. It’s built for those who crave raw power and an adrenaline rush, a true enthusiast’s dream on paper.
However, the dream quickly dissolves when you look at its fuel efficiency figures. This potent powerplant achieves a truly grim “13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.” Let’s not mince words: this is “one of the lowest in its segment,” making it a champion of consumption rather than economy. That incredible surge of power comes with an equally incredible thirst.
Factoring in a starting price of “around $66,000,” the Durango SRT demands a hefty sum upfront. Couple that with its insatiable appetite for gasoline, and it becomes “a costly option for those prioritizing fuel economy.” The thrill of stomping on the accelerator fades a little when you’re constantly calculating the next painful fuel stop, making this a prime candidate for buyers wishing they’d chosen a path of less pump-induced financial agony.
Car Model Information: 2020 Lexus RX 350 Base
Name: Dodge Durango
Manufacturer: Dodge
Production: 1997–present
Class: Mid-size,SUV
Predecessor: Dodge Ramcharger,Dodge Town Panel and Town Wagon
Related: Dodge Dakota
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,automobile layout
Caption: Dodge Durango GT 2021
ModelYears: 1998–2009,2011–present
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All accuracy disputes
Summary: The Dodge Durango is a mid-size SUV produced by Dodge starting with the 1998 model year. The first two generations were very similar in that both were based on the Dodge Dakota and Dodge Ram, both featured a body-on-frame construction and both were produced at the Newark Assembly Plant in Newark, Delaware through the 2009 model year.
The third-generation Durango began with the 2011 model year. It is built on the same platform as the Jeep Grand Cherokee, features unibody construction, and has been assembled at the Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit, Michigan, since late 2010.
Each generation had options for different engine sizes and power ratings, with different transmissions also. In 2009 a hybrid variant was introduced, but ended quickly with the second generation Durango. From 2007 to 2009 the Durango was available as the Chrysler Aspen from Chrysler. Over two million Durangos have been sold since it was introduced in 1998.
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Brand: Dodge Model: Durango SRT
Price: $30,981 Mileage: 81,179 mi.
9. **Infiniti QX80: Premium Persona, Profligate Palate**Next up, we have the Infiniti QX80, a luxury SUV that aims to deliver a premium experience with its sophisticated design and spacious, well-appointed interior. It promises comfort and capability, powered by a robust “5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 400 horsepower.” On the surface, it seems like a solid contender in the luxury segment, designed to make every journey feel effortless.
But, as with many of its colossal brethren, the QX80 has a glaring Achilles’ heel: its fuel economy. It “manages just 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway.” These numbers are far from impressive, marking its “poor fuel economy” as a “significant drawback” that undermines its otherwise premium appeal. It’s the kind of inefficiency that quietly gnaws at your budget, day after day.
With a starting price of “approximately $70,000,” the QX80 certainly isn’t a budget buy. And when you combine that initial investment with its “high fuel consumption,” you get a vehicle that becomes an “expensive vehicle to operate.” The promise of luxury and spaciousness feels a bit hollow when you’re constantly making substantial contributions to the gas station owner’s retirement fund.
Car Model Information: 2023 INFINITI QX80 PREMIUM SELECT
Name: Infiniti QX80
Caption: 2019 Infiniti QX80 (US)
Manufacturer: Nissan
Aka: Infiniti QX56 (2004–2013)
Production: 2004–present
Class: Full-size,luxury SUV
BodyStyle: SUV
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive
Predecessor: Nissan Pathfinder#Infiniti QX4
Chassis: Body-on-frame
Categories: 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All articles with failed verification, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Infiniti QX80 (formerly called the Infiniti QX56 until 2013) is a full-size luxury SUV marketed by Nissan’s luxury division Infiniti since the 2004 model year. The first-generation QX56 was built in the United States and is based on the first-generation Armada. The second-generation model was released in 2010 as a model produced in Japan, which used the sixth-generation Patrol (later also marketed as the second-generation Armada since 2016) as the base vehicle instead. Since the 2014 model year in 2013, the vehicle was renamed to the QX80 as Infiniti renamed their entire product line under a new nomenclature.
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Brand: Infiniti Model: QX80
Price: $48,992 Mileage: 26,319 mi.
10. **Land Rover Range Rover: Peerless Prestige, Perilous Pump Visits**The Land Rover Range Rover. This is more than just an SUV; it’s an institution, a symbol of adventure, luxury, and unparalleled off-road capability. Equipped with “a range of powerful engines, including a 5.0-liter V8,” it promises a regal ride no matter the terrain. It’s a vehicle that commands respect and embodies a certain lifestyle, an aspiration for many.
Yet, for all its majestic presence and engineering prowess, the Range Rover’s fuel efficiency “leaves much to be desired.” Owners can expect to see averages of “14 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.” For a vehicle that epitomizes sophisticated travel, these figures are a rather unsophisticated punch to the wallet.
Starting “around $92,000,” the Range Rover is an elite purchase, but that initial outlay is just the beginning. The “high fuel costs can be a major concern for prospective buyers,” adding another layer of financial commitment to an already steep price tag. It’s a bitter truth that even the most prestigious vehicles aren’t immune to the rising tide of fuel prices and the scrutiny of eco-conscious ownership. The allure of its unmatched luxury might just dim under the shadow of its persistent thirst.
Car Model Information: 2020 Lexus RX 350 Base
Caption: 2022 Range Rover SE P440e (L460, fifth generation, United Kingdom)
Aka: unbulleted list
Name: Range Rover
Manufacturer: unbulleted list
Production: 1969–present
Assembly: unbulleted list
Class: unbulleted list
Layout: Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Sp: uk
Categories: 1980s cars, 1990s cars, 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars
Summary: The Land Rover Range Rover, generally shortened to Range Rover, is a 4WD luxury mid to full size crossover marque and sub-brand of Jaguar Land Rover, owned by India-based Tata Motors. The Range Rover line was launched in 1970 by British Leyland and since 2022 is in its fifth generation.
Additional models have been launched under the Range Rover name, including the Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque, and Range Rover Velar.
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Brand: Land Rover Model: Range Rover
Price: $30,981 Mileage: 81,179 mi.
11. **Lincoln Navigator: American Luxury, American Thirst**The Lincoln Navigator, another quintessential American luxury full-size SUV, offers a grand statement of comfort and advanced features. Its “3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine produces 450 horsepower,” promising a smooth, powerful, and refined driving experience that rivals any in its class. It’s designed to cocoon its occupants in splendor, making long journeys feel like effortless glides.
However, despite its contemporary engine and luxurious appointments, the Navigator’s fuel efficiency still lags. It achieves “16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway,” which, while perhaps a hair better than some V8 rivals, is still “lower than many of its competitors” in an increasingly competitive market. It simply doesn’t sip fuel; it heartily gulps it down.
With a starting price “around $78,000,” the Navigator represents a significant financial commitment before you even factor in daily operating costs. The “high fuel consumption adds to the overall cost of ownership,” making it clear that luxury here comes not just with a premium badge, but with a premium fuel bill, too. For those who chose the Navigator for its blend of power and pampering, the recurrent trips to the pump can quickly sour the lavish experience.
Car Model Information: 2022 Lincoln Navigator Reserve
Name: Lincoln Navigator
Manufacturer: The Lincoln Motor Company
Caption: 2019 Lincoln Navigator
Production: May 1997–present
ModelYears: 1998–present
Class: Full-size,luxury SUV
BodyStyle: 5-door SUV
Related: Ford Expedition,Ford F-Series
Layout: Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout,rear-wheel drive
Assembly: Wayne, Michigan
Categories: 2000s cars, 2010s cars, 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in American English
Summary: The Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV marketed and sold by the Lincoln Motor Company brand of Ford Motor Company since the 1998 model year. Sold primarily in North America, the Navigator is the Lincoln counterpart of the Ford Expedition. It is the heaviest production Lincoln ever built, and is also the Lincoln with the greatest cargo capacity and the first non-limousine Lincoln to offer seating for more than six people.
Lincoln Navigator production was sourced from 1997 to 2009 at the Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan. Since 2009, production has also been sourced from the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky.
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Brand: Lincoln Model: Navigator
Price: $45,449 Mileage: 62,802 mi.
12. **Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Iconic Appeal, Costly Habits**Finally, we arrive at the Mercedes-Benz G-Class, affectionately known as the G-Wagon. This vehicle is an icon, recognized instantly for its distinctive, boxy design, formidable off-road capability, and undeniable status. Powered by a “4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 416 horsepower,” it blends ruggedness with luxury in a way few others can. It’s a vehicle that has transcended mere transportation to become a cultural phenomenon.
But even legends have their flaws, and for the G-Class, it’s its “poor fuel efficiency” which is a “notable drawback.” It delivers a truly sobering “13 mpg in the city and 17 mpg on the highway.” For all its charisma and engineering, this is a vehicle that drinks fuel with a vengeance, seemingly oblivious to the changing world around it.
Considering its stratospheric starting price of “approximately $131,000,” one might hope for some fiscal reprieve in its running costs. Alas, the “high fuel costs further increase the cost of ownership,” pushing the G-Wagon into a financial league of its own, far beyond its initial purchase price. The G-Wagon’s unwavering popularity might suggest immunity to economic and environmental concerns, but for many owners, the reality of its fuel consumption is a constant, expensive reminder that even icons aren’t always practical choices in today’s world.
So, there you have it: twelve formidable vehicles that, despite their power, luxury, or utility, have left a trail of financial regret and environmental guilt in their wake. In a world rapidly pivoting towards sustainable solutions and tighter budgets, the old justifications for these gas guzzlers are wearing thin. The rumble of a powerful engine might still stir the soul, but the shame in every refuel is increasingly hard to ignore. As electric alternatives become more viable and charging infrastructure slowly catches up, it’s no longer just about personal preference. It’s about collective responsibility, and whether the emotional pull of the past should truly outweigh the urgent necessities of the future. What will you choose to drive into tomorrow?
