SUVs come in all sizes and shapes – which makes it hard to guess the weight.
Table of Contents
We’ll look at examples from each class and tell you what you need to know about how much SUVs weigh.
We’ve previously looked at the center of gravity for SUVs – and we’ve also looked at how much cars weigh.
Now let’s look at how heavy each class is.
How Much Do Compact SUVs Weigh?
On average, compact SUVs weigh between 3,300 and 3,800 pounds. However, there is a lot of variation depending on the make and model of the vehicle.
For example, the 2022 Honda CR-V weighs in at 3,414 pounds, while the 2022 Mazda CX-5 is slightly lighter at 3,655 pounds.
Here are a few more examples of popular compact SUVs and their weights:
Make and Model | Weight (lbs) |
---|---|
Toyota RAV4 | 3,370 – 3,780 |
Nissan Rogue | 3,501 – 3,655 |
Ford Escape | 3,298 – 3,884 |
As you can see, there is a bit of overlap between compact SUVs and midsize SUVs when it comes to weight. However, in general, compact SUVs are lighter and more fuel-efficient, making them a great choice for drivers who want a balance of performance and practicality.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a compact SUV, you can expect your vehicle to weigh between 3,300 and 3,800 pounds, give or take a few hundred pounds depending on the specific make and model.
These are some of the light-weight SUVs people love.
How Much Do Mid-Size SUVs Weigh?
Mid-size SUVs can vary depending on the make and model. However, there are some general ranges that can be used as a guide.
On average, mid-size SUVs weigh between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds.
This weight range includes vehicles such as the 2022 Chevrolet Blazer (4,010 lbs), 2022 Ford Edge (4,081 lbs), and 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe (4,085 lbs). The weight of a mid-size SUV can be influenced by several factors, including the type of engine, drivetrain, and features included.
Here are some examples of mid-size SUVs and their weight:
Make and Model | Weight (lbs) |
---|---|
Chevrolet Blazer | 4,010 |
Ford Edge | 4,081 |
Hyundai Santa Fe | 4,085 |
Jeep Grand Cherokee | 4,513 |
Nissan Murano | 3,907 |
It’s important to note that the weight of a mid-size SUV can also impact its fuel efficiency and handling. Heavier vehicles may require more fuel to operate and may not handle as well as lighter vehicles. However, mid-size SUVs are generally designed to provide a balance between size, weight, and performance.
How Much Do Full-Size SUVs Weigh?
Full-size SUVs are a popular choice for families and those who need to haul large amounts of cargo.
These vehicles are known for their spacious interiors and impressive towing capabilities.
However, their size and weight can also make them more challenging to maneuver and less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles.
According to a study by J.D. Power and Associates, full-size SUVs commonly weigh between 5,300 and 6,000 pounds. Some prominent examples of full-size SUVs include:
- Cadillac Escalade
- Chevrolet Tahoe
- Ford Expedition
- GMC Yukon
- Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Toyota Land Cruiser
In North America, and especially in the United States, manufacturers make full-size SUVs in a long-wheelbase variant. These extended-length SUVs can weigh even more than their standard counterparts.
Below is a table with the weights of five popular full-size SUV models:
Model | Weight (lbs) | Weight (kgs) |
---|---|---|
Cadillac Escalade | 5,635 | 2,558 |
Chevrolet Tahoe | 5,355 | 2,430 |
Ford Expedition | 5,443 | 2,470 |
GMC Yukon | 5,379 | 2,441 |
Toyota Land Cruiser | 5,715 | 2,592 |
As you can see, full-size SUVs are some of the heaviest vehicles on the road.
Not the heaviest though!
Check here to see the heaviest pickup trucks in each class.
When considering a full-size SUV, it’s important to keep in mind the weight and size of the vehicle, as well as its fuel efficiency and handling capabilities.
Lightest SUVs of Each Class
When it comes to SUVs, weight is an important factor to consider. A heavier SUV may offer more stability on the road, but it also means less fuel efficiency and higher costs.
Here are some of the lightest SUVs in each class:
Subcompact SUVs
Subcompact SUVs are the smallest SUVs on the market, making them a great option for city driving.
Here are some of the lightest subcompact SUVs:
- Hyundai Kona – 2,890 lbs
- Nissan Kicks – 2,639 lbs
- Chevrolet Trax – 2,805 lbs
Compact SUVs
Compact SUVs are a popular choice for families due to their spacious interiors and versatility.
Here are some of the lightest compact SUVs:
- Jeep Compass – 3,184 lbs
- Subaru Crosstrek – 3,117 lbs
- Mazda CX-5 – 3,560 lbs
Midsize SUVs
Midsize SUVs offer a balance of size and fuel efficiency, making them a popular choice for those who need more space than a compact SUV.
Here are some of the lightest midsize SUVs:
- Ford Edge – 3,958 lbs
- Hyundai Santa Fe – 3,591 lbs
- Jeep Grand Cherokee – 4,513 lbs
Full-Size SUVs
Full-size SUVs are the largest SUVs on the market, offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo.
Here are some of the lightest full-size SUVs:
- Chevrolet Tahoe – 5,355 lbs
- GMC Yukon – 5,379 lbs
- Ford Expedition – 5,443 lbs
Overall, the weight of an SUV can vary greatly depending on the class and model. It’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing an SUV, including fuel efficiency, size, and weight.
The Heaviest SUVs Out There
SUVs are known for their size and power, but some models take it to the extreme with their weight.
Here are some of the heaviest SUVs on the market in 2023:
Model | Weight (lbs) |
---|---|
GMC Yukon Denali XL | 6,100 |
Cadillac Escalade ESV | 6,088 |
Lexus LX 570 | 6,000 |
Toyota Sequoia | 6,000 |
Lincoln Navigator | 5,922 |
Rolls Royce Cullinan | 6,069 |
As you can see, these SUVs are not for the faint of heart. The GMC Yukon Denali XL takes the top spot with a weight of 6,100 pounds, closely followed by the Cadillac Escalade ESV at 6,088 pounds.
These SUVs are designed for those who prioritize size and power over fuel efficiency and maneuverability. They are often used for towing, hauling, and off-roading, as they are built to handle heavy loads and rough terrain.
Can You Make an SUV Lighter?
SUV owners can undertake several measures to reduce the weight of their vehicles, thereby improving fuel efficiency and performance.
Some of these methods include:
- Remove unnecessary items: Clear out the cargo area and cabin of any non-essential items. Excess weight from accumulated belongings can significantly impact fuel efficiency.
- Use lighter wheels: Replace the stock wheels with lighter alloy wheels, which can help reduce the vehicle’s unsprung weight and improve handling.
- Remove non-essential features: If certain features are not crucial to your daily use, consider removing them. This may include roof racks, running boards, or even the spare tire (if you’re willing to rely on a tire repair kit or roadside assistance).
- Lighter aftermarket parts: Replace some heavy stock parts with lighter aftermarket alternatives, such as exhaust systems or suspension components.
- Reduce interior weight: Consider removing or replacing heavy interior components, such as seats, with lighter alternatives. This step may be more suitable for those willing to sacrifice some comfort for weight reduction.
- Limit fluid levels: Avoid carrying excessive amounts of fuel, oil, or coolant when it’s not necessary. Be cautious, however, not to compromise the vehicle’s performance or risk damage by running with insufficient fluids.
Please note that any modifications should be done with caution and in compliance with your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and local regulations.
Overall, making an SUV lighter can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. However, it’s important to balance weight reduction with safety and practicality. Drivers should consider their own needs and preferences when choosing an SUV, and consult with a trusted dealer or mechanic for advice.