In the 2025 automotive landscape, the V6 engine remained the "Goldilocks" choice for SUV buyers, offering a superior balance of towing capability and smooth power delivery compared to turbocharged four-cylinders. While electrification expanded, these five V6-powered SUVs stood out for their refined engineering, high-tech interiors, and proven mechanical reliability across diverse driving conditions.
The State of the V6 Engine in 2025 and 2026
As we evaluate the market from our current 2026 perspective, the 2025 model year represents a significant pivot point for internal combustion engines. Many manufacturers moved toward smaller displacement engines with high-pressure turbocharging or hybrid-electric assistance. However, the V6 configuration—specifically in the SUV segment—retained its dominance for users who prioritize linear power delivery, lower vibration profiles, and high-load durability.
The V6 engines of 2025 generally fell into two camps: the naturally aspirated (NA) stalwarts, which favor long-term reliability and simplicity, and the twin-turbocharged (TTV6) powerhouses, designed to replace aging V8s without sacrificing torque. Understanding the mechanical nuances between these two approaches is essential for any buyer looking at the secondary or certified pre-owned (CPO) market in 2026.
1. Lexus GX 550: The Modern Twin-Turbo Powerhouse
The 2025 Lexus GX 550 represented the most significant mechanical shift in the model's decades-long history. Replacing the venerable 4.6-liter V8, the GX 550 utilized a 3.4-liter twin-turbocharged V6 (the V35A-FTS). This engine was a revelation for the brand, producing 349 horsepower and a massive 479 lb-ft of torque, peaking at a low 2,000 RPM.
Engineering and Off-Road Capability
Built on the TNGA-F global body-on-frame platform, the GX 550 shared its structural DNA with the LX 600 and the Toyota Land Cruiser. The transition to a V6 allowed Lexus to move the engine further back in the chassis, improving weight distribution. The twin-turbo setup addressed the primary criticism of previous V6s: a lack of low-end grunt. When navigating technical off-road terrain, the 479 lb-ft of torque provided the crawling capability previously only associated with diesel or large-displacement V8 engines.
Towing and Utility
One of the primary reasons to "watch" the GX 550 in 2025 was its towing capacity. While many mid-sized SUVs struggle past 5,000 pounds, the GX 550 offered a maximum towing capacity of up to 9,063 pounds (depending on the trim). This made it a premier choice for those hauling horse trailers or large boats, providing the cooling capacity and structural rigidity necessary for heavy-duty tasks.
2. Honda Pilot: The Refined Family Workhorse
While Lexus pushed the boundaries of forced induction, Honda doubled down on the naturally aspirated V6 with the 2025 Pilot. Under the hood is the 3.5-liter DOHC 24-valve V6, producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Unlike its predecessors which used SOHC (Single Over Head Cam) and i-VTEC, this newer engine architecture focused on reducing emissions and complexity.
The TrailSport Philosophy
The 2025 Honda Pilot TrailSport became a focal point for enthusiasts. It utilized the V6’s smooth power delivery to manage a sophisticated i-VTM4 all-wheel-drive system. This system can send 70% of the engine’s torque to the rear axle and 100% of that torque to either the left or right wheel. For a family-oriented crossover, the Pilot’s V6 provides a level of refinement—specifically in terms of NVH (Noise, Vibration, and Harshness)—that turbocharged four-cylinders in the same class simply cannot match.
Longevity and Maintenance
The Pilot's V6 is often cited as a benchmark for 200,000-mile reliability. In 2025, it remained one of the few engines in its class not relying on a turbocharger, which reduces the thermal stress on engine oil and simplifies the exhaust system. For the long-term owner, this translates to fewer potential fail points and lower specialized maintenance costs over the vehicle's lifespan.
3. Ford Explorer ST: The Performance-Oriented Choice
Ford's 2025 Explorer refresh brought significant interior upgrades, but the heart of the "ST" trim remained its formidable 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6. Delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque, this V6 transformed the Explorer from a standard family hauler into a genuine performance SUV capable of a sub-6-second 0-60 mph time.
Drivetrain Integration
The 3.0L EcoBoost is paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission that was recalibrated for 2025 to offer crisper shifts. The V6's broad torque curve ensures that power is available across the entire rev range, making highway passing maneuvers effortless even when the vehicle is fully loaded with seven passengers.
Chassis Dynamics
The Explorer ST utilizes a rear-wheel-drive biased architecture (CD6 platform), which allows the V6 to sit longitudinally. This layout is typically reserved for luxury performance vehicles and provides better balance during spirited driving. For drivers who want the utility of an SUV but the soul of a sport sedan, the Explorer ST's V6 remains the most aggressive option in the mid-size segment for 2025.
4. Kia Telluride: The Value-Luxury Standard
The 2025 Kia Telluride continued to use the 3.8-liter Lambda II GDI V6 engine. Producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, this engine operates on the Atkinson cycle under light loads to improve fuel efficiency—a rarity for a larger V6.
Smoothness and Linear Power
The Telluride's V6 is celebrated for its linear power delivery. Unlike turbocharged engines that may experience "turbo lag" (a delay in power delivery while the turbocharger spools up), the Telluride provides immediate, predictable response. This makes it an exceptionally easy vehicle to drive in stop-and-go urban traffic.
The X-Line and X-Pro Trims
In 2025, Kia further leaned into the "rugged" aesthetic with the X-Line and X-Pro trims. The V6's cooling system was enhanced in these models to allow for a 5,500-pound towing capacity. Combined with one of the most awarded interiors in its class, the Telluride proved that a traditional V6 could still feel modern and luxurious without the need for complex hybridization.
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee: The Versatile Classic
The 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee (WL platform) offered the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 as its base engine. While Jeep introduced the 4xe plug-in hybrid, many buyers in 2025 still flocked to the Pentastar for its proven track record and straightforward mechanical nature.
The Pentastar Legacy
With 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the Pentastar V6 is one of the most produced engines in history. Its inclusion in the 2025 Grand Cherokee ensured that owners had access to a massive network of parts and technicians familiar with the engine’s architecture. It is a dual-overhead-cam design with variable valve timing and two-step variable-valve lift, balancing efficiency with the torque needed for light off-roading.
Multi-Role Capability
Whether in the two-row Grand Cherokee or the three-row Grand Cherokee L, the V6 provided sufficient power for the Quadra-Trac II 4WD system. While it lacked the raw speed of the Ford Explorer ST, its reliability in extreme temperatures and remote locations made it the preferred choice for overlanders and rural drivers who cannot always rely on specialized hybrid servicing.
Technical Comparison of 2025 V6 SUVs
The following table compares the vital statistics of these five key models to help buyers understand the trade-offs between displacement, induction, and output.
| Feature | Lexus GX 550 | Honda Pilot | Ford Explorer ST | Kia Telluride | Jeep Grand Cherokee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Type | 3.4L Twin-Turbo V6 | 3.5L Naturally Asp. | 3.0L EcoBoost V6 | 3.8L GDI V6 | 3.6L Pentastar V6 |
| Horsepower | 349 hp | 285 hp | 400 hp | 291 hp | 293 hp |
| Torque (lb-ft) | 479 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | 415 lb-ft | 262 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 9,063 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,000 lbs | 5,500 lbs | 6,200 lbs |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Auto | 10-Speed Auto | 10-Speed Auto | 8-Speed Auto | 8-Speed Auto |
| Drive Layout | Full-Time 4WD | FWD / AWD | RWD / AWD | FWD / AWD | RWD / 4WD |
Why the V6 Remains Relevant in 2026
From our vantage point in 2026, the decision to opt for a 2025 V6 SUV often comes down to "Duty Cycle." The duty cycle refers to how the vehicle is used. For short city commutes, an EV or a four-cylinder hybrid is often superior. However, the V6 remains the king of three specific use cases:
- Constant Heavy Loading: When an SUV is filled with seven passengers and luggage, a small four-cylinder engine must stay "on boost" constantly, which significantly degrades fuel economy and increases engine wear. A V6 has the displacement to handle the load with less strain.
- Towing Stability: The weight and engine braking capabilities of a V6 provide a more stable platform for towing. Turbocharged four-cylinders often struggle with heat management when pulling heavy loads up long mountain grades—a scenario where the 2025 Lexus GX 550 and Jeep Grand Cherokee excel.
- Mechanical Longevity: The "stressed" nature of high-output four-cylinders (running high boost pressures to match V6 power) can lead to shorter lifespans for gaskets and turbo bearings. The naturally aspirated engines in the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride are designed for 15-year ownership cycles.
Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership Costs
When considering these 2025 models in 2026, it is important to factor in maintenance. V6 engines generally require more oil during a change (6–7 quarts) than a four-cylinder, and spark plug replacement involves six plugs rather than four.
Furthermore, owners of the Lexus GX 550 and Ford Explorer ST must be diligent with oil change intervals. Turbochargers are cooled and lubricated by engine oil; old or degraded oil can lead to expensive turbo failures. Conversely, the Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee are more forgiving, though they still require strict adherence to manufacturer schedules to maintain their longevity.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), buyers should always check for specific recalls related to high-pressure fuel pumps or cooling systems, which were common areas of focus for the 2025 model year across several brands.
Choosing the Right V6 SUV for Your Needs
Selecting the "best" V6 depends entirely on your primary application:
- For Luxury and Hardcore Off-Roading: The Lexus GX 550 is the undisputed leader. Its TTV6 provides V8-level torque with modern Japanese reliability.
- For Family Safety and Utility: The Honda Pilot offers the most user-friendly interior and the smoothest NA V6 experience.
- For Driving Enthusiasts: The Ford Explorer ST delivers a level of paved-road performance that its competitors cannot match.
- For Maximum Value: The Kia Telluride provides a near-luxury experience at a price point that undercuts the European and Japanese competition.
- For Versatility and Heritage: The Jeep Grand Cherokee remains the "Swiss Army Knife" of SUVs, capable of everything from valet parking to trail running.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a V6 better than a Turbocharged 4-cylinder?
In terms of smoothness and towing, yes. A V6 inherently has better primary balance and more displacement, which allows it to move heavy loads with less mechanical stress. However, turbocharged 4-cylinders often provide better city fuel economy.
Which 2025 V6 SUV has the best fuel economy?
Among this group, the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot typically lead the pack, averaging around 21-22 combined MPG. The Lexus GX 550, while powerful, is the thirstiest due to its boxy aerodynamics and heavy 4WD system, often averaging 17-19 combined MPG.
Can these V6 SUVs run on regular 87-octane gas?
The Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and Jeep Grand Cherokee are designed to run on 87-octane regular unleaded. The Ford Explorer ST and Lexus GX 550 strongly recommend (and in some cases require) 91-octane premium fuel to achieve their advertised horsepower and torque figures and to prevent engine knock under boost.
Why did many manufacturers stop making V6 engines in 2025?
Stringent CAFE (Corporate Average Fuel Economy) standards and emissions regulations pushed manufacturers toward smaller engines and electrification. The V6s that remain are often "specialty" engines or high-end options for buyers willing to pay for the extra capability.
Does the 2025 Lexus GX 550 have the same engine as the Toyota Tundra?
Yes, the 3.4-liter Twin-Turbo V6 in the GX 550 is a variant of the V35A-FTS engine found in the Toyota Tundra and Sequoia, though it is tuned specifically for the GX's weight and luxury profile.
Final Recommendation
If you are looking for a vehicle that will last the next decade, prioritize the Honda Pilot or the Lexus GX 550. The Pilot offers the peak of naturally aspirated refinement, while the Lexus provides the most advanced V6 engineering currently available. For those purchasing in 2026, focus on vehicles with documented service histories, particularly for the turbocharged models, to ensure the long-term health of the forced-induction components.
