To help buyers pick out the right diesel SUV for them, CarMax put together a list of the 10 best diesel SUVs for buyers in 2021. These SUVs, whether new or used, provide the “smooth delivery of diesel engine power” along with “the already-impressive features of an SUV.” Many of the options are also luxury SUVs, and the Jaguar F-Pace tops the list.

Why buy a diesel SUV?

Diesel vehicles get better fuel efficiency than gas-powered vehicles, says Trusted Choice; however, diesel fuel can be more expensive, and not all gas stations have it. While diesel engines have fewer parts, they still need regular maintenance. These engines are great in trucks and SUVs since they have increased torque plus great towing abilities. They don’t produce as much horsepower though and have less speed. And, while diesel engines do emit pollution, they are much better than they used to be.

Best used diesel SUV: Jaguar F-Pace

The diesel engine first became available in the Jaguar F-Pace in 2017, the year the model was originally released. Model years 2017 through 2019 of the F-Pace have a standard 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine called the 20d, which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 20d turbodiesel produces 180 hp and 318 lb-ft of torque, according to NewCarTestDrive.com. The F-Pace no longer offers the diesel engine after the 2019 model year.

The Jaguar F-Pace

The Jaguar F-Pace was the first SUV from Jaguar, says Consumer Reports. For model years 2017 through 2019, in addition to the diesel engine, a supercharged 3.0-liter V6 engine is available, which generates 340 hp. The version in the S produces 380 hp. A high-performance SVR model arrived for the 2019 model year. This F-Pace has a 5.0-liter supercharged V8 engine, generating 550 hp. All engine options have all-wheel drive.

It provides a “nimble” driving experience, according to Consumer Reports, but “the ride is stiff and choppy,” which is unusual for a Jaguar. The interior isn’t as luxurious as some competitors, and the infotainment system was a little out of date but has been updated for 2021. The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace currently has an average price between $25,875 and $38,675. A 2018 model sells for about $2,000 more. The 2019 F-Pace generally sells for between $31,225 and $65,675.

Other good diesel SUVs options

Land Rovers take up nearly half of the CarMax list. The second and third spots on the CarMax list are filled by the Land Rover Range Rover Sport and the Land Rover Range Rover. The Land Rover Discovery is seventh, and the Land Rover Range Rover Velar is 10th.

The Range Rover provides “luxury appointments and driving manners in addition to off-road capability,” according to CarMax. CarMax calls the Land Rover Range Rover “one of the original luxury SUVs.” Its diesel engine arrived for 2017 and is still available for 2021. It’s a 3.0-liter diesel V6 engine, producing 254 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, according to Car and Driver.

Coming in fourth is the Jeep Grand Cherokee. With its EcoDiesel engine, this rugged SUV is great for outdoor enthusiasts, says CarMax. Its diesel engine became available for 2014 and was available through 2019 with the top trims. The Laredo and Limited trims offered the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 engine for model years 2017 through 2019. It produces 240 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, according to Autoblog, and comes standard with four-wheel drive.

While an SUV with a diesel engine may not be the first option that springs to mind, it’s one worth considering. A used SUV will save some money and give buyers access to a diesel engine luxury SUV like the Jaguar F-Pace. This standout is worth a look.