Owning a large SUV in Nigeria used to mean spending heavily on petrol. But with the recent drop in NNPC’s approved petrol price to ₦860 per litre, some relief has arrived for motorists. However, with fuel costs still high, it’s more important than ever to choose an SUV that balances power with efficiency.
For Nigerians whether you’re a family head, business owner, politician, or frequent traveller fuel efficiency is key. You need a vehicle that can handle bad roads, heavy traffic, and long distances while saving fuel.
To make this guide practical, we’ve calculated the fuel needed for a 500 KM journey (the approximate distance from Lagos to Abuja) for each SUV, based on its kilometres per litre (KM/L) rating, using NNPC’s new petrol price of ₦860 per litre.
1. 2025 Lexus TX
- Fuel Economy: 11.9 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 42 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦36,120
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Perfect for wealthy families and executives who want comfort and class.
Handles Lagos traffic smoothly and is comfortable for long journeys.
Hybrid version reduces petrol use, useful during fuel scarcity.
2. 2025 Cadillac XT6
- Fuel Economy: 9.8 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 51 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦43,860
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Spacious and comfortable for long-distance travel.
Ideal for large families or business owners who need extra space.
Great for trips from Lagos to Enugu or Abuja.
3. 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser
- Fuel Economy: 9.8 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 51 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦43,860
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
One of the strongest SUVs for Nigerian roads handles potholes, floods, and rough terrain.
Popular among government officials, military, and security escorts.
Built for long-lasting durability.
4. 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe (Diesel)
- Fuel Economy: 9.8 KM/L
- Fuel Needed for 500 KM: 51 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦43,860
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Diesel engine reduces fuel expenses compared to petrol SUVs.
Used by logistics companies and heavy-duty transporters.
Strong enough for towing heavy loads.
5. 2025 BMW X7
- Fuel Economy: 9.8 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 51 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦43,860
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
A luxury SUV for CEOs, business moguls, and high-class families.
Performs well on highways like Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
More suitable for city roads than rural villages.
6. 2025 Toyota Sequoia
- Fuel Economy: 9.4 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 53 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦45,580
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Hybrid technology saves fuel, especially when petrol is scarce.
Handles bad roads, floods, and heavy loads with ease.
Great for large family trips across Nigeria.
7. 2025 Kia Telluride
- Fuel Economy: 9.4 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 53 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦45,580
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Affordable compared to other large SUVs.
Perfect for families or professionals who need space.
Stylish yet practical for daily driving.
8. 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLS
- Fuel Economy: 9 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 56 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦48,160
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Top choice for business tycoons, politicians, and high-net-worth individuals.
Provides ultimate comfort for long-distance trips.
Best for smooth highways rather than rough roads.
9. 2025 Jeep Grand Wagoneer
- Fuel Economy: 8.5 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 59 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦50,740
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
Built for off-road adventures and tough Nigerian terrains.
Strong enough to carry heavy loads or tow trailers.
Uses more fuel but is great for those who prioritise power.
10. 2025 Lexus LX
- Fuel Economy: 8.5 KM/L
- Petrol Needed for 500 KM: 59 litres
- Estimated Fuel Cost (₦860/L): ₦50,740
Why It’s a Great Choice for Nigeria:
A status symbol for top politicians, business executives, and elite families.
Built for both city and rural roads.
Long-lasting investment for those who want durability and class.
Which SUV is Best for You?
With petrol now at ₦860 per litre, every litre matters. Some SUVs consume less fuel, while others offer luxury, power, and durability.
What’s more important to you, saving money or making a statement?
