Top 10 SUVs 2000 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. Lexus RX 300

The Lexus RX 300 ranks first as the best overall SUV of 2000 because it pioneered the luxury crossover formula with a car-like unibody ride and bulletproof Toyota mechanicals. Its 3.0-liter V6 produced 220 horsepower and 222 lb-ft of torque, returning an efficient 18 city and 22 highway mpg. At a 2000 MSRP of $33,005, it offered standard automatic climate control, alloys, and a quiet cabin that body-on-frame rivals could not match.

This SUV is for luxury buyers who wanted SUV image without truck compromise, trading away off-road capability for on-road refinement. Compared to the Toyota Land Cruiser ranked second, the RX 300 is far more affordable, efficient, and practical for daily commuting, though it lacks the Land Cruiser's full-time 4WD and global off-road credibility. It remains a sensible used purchase, with clean 2000 examples trading between $3,000 and $6,000, offering dependable luxury transport rather than collector appreciation.

2. Toyota Land Cruiser

The Toyota Land Cruiser ranks second because it is the durability benchmark of 2000, offering over-engineered hardware and a legendary V8 that made it a 25-year keeper. Its new 4.7-liter DOHC V8 produced 230 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, paired with full-time four-wheel drive and eight-passenger seating. At a 2000 MSRP of $50,828, it was the most expensive mainstream SUV here, returning only about 14 mpg overall.

This SUV is for buyers who wanted one vehicle to keep for decades and cross continents without complaint, trading away fuel economy and affordability for unmatched toughness. Compared to the Lexus RX 300 ranked first, the Land Cruiser offers superior off-road ability and towing capacity but is thirstier, pricier, and less car-like in daily driving. It is the safest long-term collector investment on this list, with values steadily rising as enthusiasts seek out its proven durability.

3. Jeep Grand Cherokee (WJ)

The Jeep Grand Cherokee ranks third because it delivered the most capable mainstream family 4x4 package of 2000, blending genuine trail ability with everyday usability. Its indestructible 4.0-liter inline-six produced around 195 horsepower and 222 lb-ft, with Quadra-Drive four-wheel drive that outperformed most midsize rivals off-road. At a 2000 MSRP of about $26,000 for the Laredo 4x4, it offered a surprisingly upscale interior and EPA figures near 17 city and 22 highway.

This SUV is for families who wanted all-around capability without the premium price of a Land Cruiser, trading away some refinement for proven off-road hardware. Compared to the Toyota Land Cruiser ranked second, the Grand Cherokee is significantly cheaper to buy and run, but it lacks the Land Cruiser's V8 power, eight-passenger seating, and global durability reputation.

4. Nissan Xterra

The Nissan Xterra ranks fourth as the best value SUV of 2000 because it delivered genuine truck-based 4x4 hardware at a starting price of just $18,119. All-new for 2000, its preferred 3.3-liter V6 produced 170 horsepower and 200 lb-ft, paired with a five-speed manual and proper part-time four-wheel drive.

This SUV is for active buyers who wanted real off-road capability on a tight budget, trading away ride comfort and interior refinement for rugged durability. Compared to the Jeep Grand Cherokee ranked third, the Xterra is far cheaper and more youthful in character, but it lacks the Grand Cherokee's upscale cabin and refined on-road manners.

5. Toyota 4Runner

The Toyota 4Runner ranks fifth because it combined Toyota-grade reliability with genuine trail ability, making it a durability icon that has aged into a sought-after used buy. The third-generation model offered a base 2.7-liter four-cylinder and the far better 3.4-liter V6 producing 183 horsepower and 217 lb-ft, with available part-time four-wheel drive and a low-range transfer case.

This SUV is for buyers who wanted Toyota durability with off-road capability, trading away interior space and ride comfort for proven toughness. Compared to the Nissan Xterra ranked fourth, the 4Runner is pricier but offers a more refined V6 and stronger resale value, though it lacks the Xterra's clever cargo packaging and lower entry price.

6. Mercedes-Benz ML320

The Mercedes-Benz ML320 ranks sixth because it offered European luxury with genuine all-weather grip and advanced safety features, though early reliability issues kept it from the top. Built in Alabama, its 3.2-liter V6 produced 215 horsepower and 233 lb-ft, paired with a five-speed automatic and full-time four-wheel drive.

This SUV is for buyers who wanted a luxury badge with off-road hardware, trading away long-term reliability for a cheap used price today. Compared to the Toyota 4Runner ranked fifth, the ML320 offers a more upscale interior and superior on-road comfort, but it suffers from spotty build quality and steep depreciation that the 4Runner avoids. It is a lot of luxury SUV for little money used, but buyers must budget for potential electrical and mechanical repairs.

7. Chevrolet Tahoe

The Chevrolet Tahoe ranks seventh because it was the full-size workhorse of 2000, offering outstanding towing and hauling capability on the new GMT800 platform. Fully redesigned for 2000, its Vortec V8s included a 5.3-liter making 285 horsepower and 325 lb-ft, with a 4.8-liter base option.

This SUV is for big families who needed to tow and haul, trading away fuel efficiency and maneuverability for sheer capability. Compared to the Mercedes-Benz ML320 ranked sixth, the Tahoe offers far more passenger and cargo space, stronger V8 power, and easier serviceability, but it lacks the ML320's luxury appointments and all-weather refinement. It remains an everyday-usable full-size SUV, though its large size and poor mpg make it cumbersome for daily errands.

8. Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester ranks eighth because it was the efficiency and all-weather champion of 2000, offering the best fuel economy on this list with confident symmetrical all-wheel drive. Its 2.5-liter flat-four boxer produced 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft, paired with a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic.

This SUV is for practical buyers who wanted all-weather security and car-like handling, trading away ground clearance and towing capacity for efficiency. Compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe ranked seventh, the Forester is far cheaper to run and easier to park, but it cannot match the Tahoe's V8 power, nine-passenger seating, or towing ability. It remains a sensible used choice for commuters, though buyers should budget for a possible head-gasket replacement.

9. Jeep Wrangler (TJ)

The Jeep Wrangler TJ ranks ninth because it was the off-road icon of 2000, offering unmatched trail ability and open-air fun that has made it a strongly appreciating classic. Its desirable 4.0-liter inline-six produced 181 horsepower and 222 lb-ft, backed by a five-speed manual, coil-spring suspension, and serious part-time 4WD.

This SUV is for off-road purists and open-air enthusiasts who prioritized capability over comfort, trading away on-road refinement and practicality for legendary trail prowess. Compared to the Subaru Forester ranked eighth, the Wrangler offers far superior off-road hardware and a removable top, but it is crude, noisy, and only seats four with minimal cargo room.

10. Honda CR-V

The Honda CR-V ranks tenth because it was the sensible, efficient choice of 2000, offering Honda reliability and clever packaging at an affordable price. Its first-generation 2.0-liter four-cylinder produced about 146 horsepower, paired with a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual and available Real Time all-wheel drive.

This SUV is for practical buyers who wanted reliable, efficient family transport, trading away off-road capability and power for low running costs. Compared to the Jeep Wrangler TJ ranked ninth, the CR-V offers far better fuel economy, a roomier interior, and a smoother ride, but it lacks the Wrangler's off-road ability and collector appeal.

How we ranked these

We ranked each 2000 SUV by weighting reliability and ownership cost at 25%, value in period at 20%, capability and space at 15%, efficiency at 15%, comfort and tech at 15%, and used value now at 10%. This reflects a long-term owner's perspective, using period data from Consumer Reports, J.D. Power, and road tests.

We deliberately ignored brand prestige, marketing hype, and short-term performance metrics like 0-60 times. These factors often mislead buyers away from practical, durable choices. Our focus was on real-world usability, dependability, and long-term cost of ownership, which are more critical for a vehicle that is now 25 years old.

Related questions

What was the best-selling SUV of 2000?

The Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Tahoe led in sales volume, but the Lexus RX 300 was the breakout hit that defined the crossover trend. Its success proved that car-based comfort could outsell traditional truck-based capability, reshaping the market for the next two decades.

Which 2000 SUV is the most reliable?

The Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus RX 300 are the most reliable, with the 4Runner close behind. All three earned top marks from Consumer Reports and are known to exceed 250,000 miles with proper maintenance, making them excellent long-term investments.

Which 2000 SUV holds its value best today?

The Toyota Land Cruiser, third-generation 4Runner, and Jeep Wrangler TJ have all appreciated in value. Clean examples of these models now command prices well above their original MSRPs, making them the safest bets for collectors and enthusiasts.

Was the Lexus RX 300 a real SUV or just a tall car?

The RX 300 was a unibody crossover with available all-wheel drive, offering limited off-road capability. However, it pioneered the comfort-first approach that now dominates the SUV market, proving that most buyers prioritize ride quality and refinement over ruggedness.

Which 2000 SUV was the best value?

The Nissan Xterra, starting at $18,119, was the best value. It offered genuine truck-based 4x4 hardware, a rugged design, and practical features at a price significantly lower than most competitors, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious active buyers.

What should I check when buying a 2000 SUV used?

Inspect for rust on frame rails and undercarriage, especially on body-on-frame models. Check for head gasket issues on the Subaru Forester, and verify that the 4WD system engages properly. A well-maintained high-mileage Toyota or Jeep can be a better buy than a neglected low-mileage example.

Which 2000 SUVs are now collectible?

The Toyota Land Cruiser, third-gen 4Runner, and Jeep Wrangler TJ have all become collectible and appreciating assets. Their legendary durability and off-road capability have made them sought-after by enthusiasts, with prices rising well above typical 25-year-old SUV values.

FAQ

What was the best overall SUV of 2000?

The Lexus RX 300 was the best overall, combining Toyota reliability with luxury comfort. Its car-like ride and refined interior set a new standard, making it the most influential SUV of the year and a benchmark for the crossover segment.

What was the best value SUV of 2000?

The Nissan Xterra was the best value, starting at just $18,119. It provided real truck-based 4x4 capability, a rugged design, and practical features at a price that undercut nearly every rival, making it an outstanding choice for budget-minded buyers.

How did you rank the 2000 SUVs?

We weighted reliability and ownership cost at 25%, value in period at 20%, capability and space at 15%, efficiency at 15%, comfort and tech at 15%, and used value now at 10%. This approach prioritizes long-term ownership satisfaction over short-term performance.

Which 2000 SUV has the best fuel economy?

The Subaru Forester and Honda CR-V led with around 21-26 mpg highway. Their car-based designs and efficient four-cylinder engines made them the most economical choices, though they offered less off-road capability than truck-based rivals.

Which 2000 SUV is best for off-roading?

The Jeep Wrangler TJ and Toyota Land Cruiser are the top off-road choices. The Wrangler offers unmatched trail ability with its solid axles and removable top, while the Land Cruiser provides full-time 4WD and legendary durability for serious expeditions.

Which 2000 SUV is best for towing?

The Chevrolet Tahoe and Toyota Land Cruiser are the best for towing. The Tahoe's 5.3-liter V8 provides strong pulling power, while the Land Cruiser's overbuilt drivetrain can handle heavy loads with ease, making both ideal for boats or trailers.

Are 2000 SUVs reliable today?

Many are, especially Toyotas and Jeeps with their inline-six engines. The Land Cruiser, RX 300, 4Runner, and Grand Cherokee can still be reliable daily drivers if well-maintained. However, expect to address age-related issues like rust and worn suspension components.

What is the biggest mistake when buying a 2000 SUV?

Focusing on low mileage over maintenance history. A well-maintained high-mileage Toyota or Jeep is often a better buy than a neglected low-mileage example. Cosmetic wear and dated tech scare off buyers, but the underlying drivetrains often have decades of life left.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/
• https://www.motortrend.com/
• https://www.edmunds.com/
• https://www.consumerreports.org/
• https://www.jdpower.com/
• https://www.kbb.com/
• https://www.cars.com/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_RX
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nissan_Xterra
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Land_Cruiser

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