The Fastest SUVs in the World Ranked

The SUV market has experienced tremendous growth over the past two decades. While modern SUVs have been present since the 1980s with the introduction of the Jeep Cherokee XJ, it was in the late 1990s that mainstream automakers like Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Porsche entered this segment. Since then, SUVs have surpassed other vehicle types to become some of the best-selling cars in the US.

The popularity of SUVs stems from their ability to meet various needs. They offer ample space for most families’ requirements and possess off-road capabilities. Furthermore, as more options flood the market, they have become increasingly affordable.

Traditionally, speed was not a characteristic associated with SUVs. However, advancements in automotive technology have allowed manufacturers to push boundaries and elevate performance levels in these vehicles. As a result, many incredibly fast SUV models have emerged on the market. These high-performance SUVs boast mind-boggling acceleration, precise handling, and top speeds that rival those of traditional performance cars.

While we often discuss ranking the fastest cars globally today, it is equally intriguing to explore which are currently considered some of the fastest SUVs available.

10. 2023 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio

Performance

• 0-100: 3.3 Seconds
• Top Speed: 176 Mph
• Power: 505hp, 443 lb-ft

Alfa Romeo, once a popular automaker, had faced challenges in recent years with declining sales. To revive its fortunes, Alfa Romeo decided to enter the SUV market with the Stelvio in 2016—a move that proved highly successful. The Stelvio garnered praise for its striking design and quickly became the best-selling model for Alfa Romeo.

While the standard Stelvio is well-regarded, those seeking high performance should consider investing in the Quadrifoglio trim. Powered by a twin-turbo V6 engine sourced from Ferrari and producing an impressive 505 horsepower, the Stelvio Quadrifoglio offers exhilarating speed and performance capabilities.

Engine Specs

9. 2023 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

Performance

• 0-100: 3.6 Seconds
• Top Speed: 180 Mph
• Power: 710 hp, 645 lb-ft

The Chrysler Hemi engine is renowned as one of the greatest V8 engines ever created. With a history dating back to the 1950s, it has evolved through multiple generations and continues to impress. In 2015, Chrysler introduced one of the best iterations of the Hemi engine—the 6.2-liter supercharged Hellcat—a powerhouse that has been utilized in various vehicles since then, including the exceptional Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat.

The Durango SUV has been underrated since its debut in 1997 but made a triumphant return with its third-generation model in 2011—larger and better than before. Since then, the third-generation Durango has gained popularity and now stands among the top choices for large SUVs in 2023. Its reputation was further enhanced by equipping it with an impressive 710-horsepower Hemi engine—an upgrade that solidifies its position as one of the best offerings in its class.

Engine Specs

8. 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

Performance

• 0-100: 3.5 Seconds
• Top Speed: 180 Mph
• Power: 707 hp, 645 lb-ft

The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s Trackhawk trim of the fourth-generation model received the powerful Hellcat engine, delivering an impressive 707 horsepower. This immense power not only makes the Grand Cherokee exceptionally fast but also provides a thrilling exhaust note. The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk can be considered a muscle SUV due to its remarkable performance.

Production of the Trackhawk variant concluded in 2021 with the end of the fourth-generation Grand Cherokee. As Jeep works on developing a new generation of the Grand Cherokee, automotive enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating whether a new iteration of the high-performance Trackhawk will be introduced to satisfy their desires for speed and power.

Engine Specs

7. 2023 Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

Performance

• 0-100: 3.3 Seconds
• Top Speed: 186 Mph
• Power: 631 hp, 626 lb-ft

Porsche faced initial resistance from fans when it entered the SUV market with the Cayenne in the late ’90s. However, today, it has become Porsche’s top-selling model and continues to thrive. Among all the iterations of the Cayenne, the Turbo GT stands out as the fastest.

The Cayenne Turbo GT is equipped with a twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers an impressive 631 horsepower to all wheels. This power enables the Cayenne Turbo GT to set a new Nurburgring record for SUVs—a testament to its exceptional performance capabilities.

Engine Specs

6. 2023 Maserati Levante Trofeo

Performance

• 0-100: 3.7 Seconds
• Top Speed: 187 Mph
• Power: 580 hp, 538 lb-ft

Maserati, like Alfa Romeo, has faced challenges in maintaining its past success, particularly in the sports car market. The depreciation of their popular sports car, the GranTurismo, has impacted sales of new models. Consequently, Maserati’s venture into the SUV market with the Levante came as no surprise.

The Levante showcases Maserati’s signature style with an attractive exterior and a luxurious interior filled with premium features. It also offers an exhilarating driving experience, especially in the Trofeo variant. Equipped with a powerful twin-turbo V8 engine producing 580 horsepower, the Levante Trofeo achieves impressive speeds up to 300 kph.

Engine Specs

5. 2023 Bentley Bentayga Speed

Performance

• 0-100: 3.8 Seconds
• Top Speed: 190 Mph
• Power: 626 hp, 663 lb-ft

The Volkswagen MLB platform has given rise to several impressive SUV models, such as the Volkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne, and Audi Q7. Another notable vehicle utilizing this platform is the Bentley Bentayga. However, due to its high price tag exceeding $200,000, many enthusiasts may find it challenging to distinguish from its platform counterparts.

Despite its hefty cost, we believe that the Bentley Bentayga justifies every penny spent. It boasts a sophisticated design and one of the most luxurious interiors in its class, featuring premium leather upholstery, elegant wood trimmings, and an abundance of advanced technology features. The Bentayga also delivers exceptional power under the hood—especially in the W12-engined Speed trim level.

Engine Specs

4. 2023 Lamborghini Urus Performante

Performance

• 0-100: 3.1 Seconds
• Top Speed: 190 Mph
• Power: 657 hp, 627 lb-ft

Lamborghini is renowned for producing iconic Italian sports cars like the Countach, Miura, and Aventador. However, they have also made a significant impact in the luxury SUV segment with their impressive offering – the Urus. While sharing its platform with other Volkswagen Group SUVs, the Urus stands out from the crowd.

The Urus embodies Lamborghini’s distinctive design language with an aggressive and sporty aesthetic characterized by sharp angles that exude a sense of coolness. It also delivers exceptional speed that aligns with Lamborghini’s reputation—especially in its Performante version. Equipped with a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine generating 657 horsepower, the Urus can hold its own against other models within the Lamborghini lineup

Engine Specs

3. 2023 Audi RSQ8

Performance

• 0-100: 3.2 Seconds
• Top Speed: 190 Mph
• Power: 591 hp, 590 lb-ft

BMW kicked off the trend of “coupe SUVs” in 2008 with the introduction of the X6. Mercedes-Benz followed suit with the GLE Coupe, and it wasn’t until 2018 that Audi joined the competition with its Q8 model. The Q8 showcased a new design language for Audi’s SUV lineup, featuring an impressive octagonal-shaped grille.

Although initially lacking in performance, Audi responded by introducing a high-performance variant known as the RS Q8. Equipped with a powerful 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine delivering 591 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, the RS Q8 offers an exhilarating driving experience that enthusiasts will appreciate.

Engine Specs

2. 2023 Aston Martin DBX707

Performance

• 0-100: 3.3 Seconds
• Top Speed: 193 Mph
• Power: 697 hp, 663 lb-ft

The emergence of SUVs from traditional sports car manufacturers has elicited mixed reactions among automotive enthusiasts. While some companies have been successful in this transition, others have struggled to find their footing. Aston Martin falls into the former category with its impressive debut in the SUV market—the DBX. Aston Martin stands out as one of the most successful automakers in seamlessly translating its sports car design language to an SUV. The DBX showcases sleek lines and a commanding shark-nose grille, positioning it as one of the most visually appealing SUVs available.

Power is another area where the DBX shines. The standard model is equipped with an AMG-supplied twin-turbo V8 engine that delivers 542 horsepower—a substantial amount for thrilling performance on any terrain. For those seeking even more power, Aston Martin offers the high-performance DBX 707 variant, which boasts several upgrades to achieve an impressive output of 697 horsepower—taking driving excitement to new heights while retaining the same engine foundation.

Engine Specs

1. 2024 Ferrari Purosangue

Performance

• 0-100: 3.2 Seconds
• Top Speed: 193 Mph
• Power: 715 hp, 528 lb-ft

In a significant shift from its previous stance, Ferrari introduced its first-ever SUV, the Purosangue. Initially hesitant due to concerns about deviating from their brand’s DNA, Ferrari succumbed to market demands and unveiled this highly anticipated model.

The Purosangue appears to be a resounding success for Ferrari. Its striking design captures attention, while the spacious interior is replete with luxurious features. The highlight lies under the hood—a powerful 6.5-liter V12 engine that generates an impressive 715 horsepower. With these remarkable attributes, it comes as no surprise that the Purosangue secures a top spot on our list of exceptional vehicles today.

Engine Specs

News Source: Gulf Insider