HomeThe world's most powerful trucks and SUVs

The world’s most powerful trucks and SUVs

From electric SUVs to supercharged pickups, we reveal the most powerful performance utility vehicles.

  • The ultimate performance SUVs and pickups

    The ultimate performance SUVs and pickups

    © Hennessey Performance

    Options in the high-performance utility vehicle market continue to expand, especially as car manufacturers pursue the path of electrification.

    From the early days of a Lamborghini with a supercar-supplied V-12, to the most modern electric pickups, we have curated an impressive collection of extreme pickup trucks and SUVs. On this list, a 450hp output is just the start…

  • 1986 Lamborghini LM002

    1986 Lamborghini LM002

    © Lamborghini

    Although it may not be the most potent of this line up, the LM002 wins the prize for being the craziest SUV to roll off a factory production line. Originally conceived as a military vehicle, when it was rejected in favor of the Humvee, Lamborghini created this insane road-going version.

    Powered by the 5.2-liter V-12 from the Countach supercar, 450 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque meant a top speed of over 130 mph was possible, despite Rambo Lambo’s considerable size and weight.

  • 2021 Ford F-150 Raptor

    2021 Ford F-150 Raptor

    © Ford

    Ford surprised many with the third-generation F-150 Raptor, keeping its power output the same as the previous model. However, a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 with 450 hp and 510 lb-ft of torque offers little to complain about.

    A set of 37-inch tires, electronically controlled Fox shock absorbers and a cloud-connected navigation system were all-new.

  • 2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392

    2021 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon 392

    © Jeep

    Typically when car companies display a concept model, the finished production version ends up being tamer in comparison. Jeep broke the rules with the Wrangler Rubicon 392, making it more powerful than the original concept.

    Whereas the preview version had 450 hp, the finished article packs 470 hp and 470 lb-ft instead. A naturally aspirated 6.4-liter V-8 engine is responsible for the grunt, and is connected to an eight-speed automatic gearbox.

    Jeep has included plenty of off-road potential, but notes that the Rubicon 392 can run from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds on the street.

  • 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition

    2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E GT Performance Edition

    © Ford

    Whilst many of the trucks and SUVs on the list use traditional internal combustion engines, there is still plenty of room for powerful all-electric models. Ford may have shocked purists by naming the Mustang Mach-E after its famous sports car, but the GT Performance Edition is a real hard charger.

    Planned to be launched later in 2021, the range-topping Mustang Mach-E will have up to 480 hp and 634 lb ft of torque. Instant power from the electric motors, combined with all-wheel drive, creates the potential for 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds.

  • 2008 Audi Q7 V12 TDI

    2008 Audi Q7 V12 TDI

    © Audi

    How do you demonstrate the achievements of your Le Mans TDI programme with your flagship SUV? By inserting a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-12 diesel engine underneath the hood. Power was a supercar-rivaling 493 hp, whilst torque was a gigantic 738 lb-ft.

    That was sufficient to hurl the hefty Q7 from 0-62 mph in 5.5 seconds. Thankfully the Q7 V12 TDI came with sizeable carbon ceramic brake discs.

  • 2005 Dodge Ram SRT-10

    2005 Dodge Ram SRT-10

    © Dodge

    The Ram SRT-10 answered a question that nobody really thought to ask. What happens when you take the 8.3-liter V-10 from the Viper supercar, and add it to a pick-up truck?

    With 500 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque, power in the Quad Cab version was fed through an antiquated four-speed automatic gearbox. But this was still good enough for 0-60 mph in 5.6 seconds, yet also being able to tow big loads.

    In July 2004, the Ram SRT-10 set a new Guinness World Record for the fastest production pick-up. It averaged an impressive 154.587 mph.

  • 2023 Range Rover Sport P530

    2023 Range Rover Sport P530

    © Land Rover

    The 2023 Range Rover Sport is an all-new third-generation model, serving up minimalist style with improved performance. To demonstrate just how capable the new Sport is, Land Rover launched it with a drive up an Icelandic hydroelectric dam.

    A range of engines are on offer, but the P530 provided the most performance at first. It uses a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8, delivering a substantial 503 hp to all four wheels.

  • 2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Racing Edition

    2019 Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio Racing Edition

    © Alfa Romeo

    As the first SUV model from Alfa Romeo, the Stelvio is naturally more about performance than tackling the toughest of trails. This mantra is furthered by the hot Quadrifoglio version, powered by a turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 built by Ferrari.

    A return to Formula One racing for the Alfa name in 2019 saw the launch of a special Racing Edition. Wearing a livery inspired by the F1 race car, power from the 2.9-liter V-6 was upped to 513 hp. The additional 10 hp over the standard Quadrifoglio comes from the use of an Akrapovic performance exhaust.

  • 2023 Maserati Grecale Trofeo

    2023 Maserati Grecale Trofeo

    © Maserati

    The same Ferrari-supplied 2.9-liter V-6 can also be found in the brand-new Maserati Grecale SUV. Smaller than the Levante that appears later on our list, the new model is designed to rival the Porsche Macan.

    Along with hybrid, and even full-electric models, the range-topping Grecale Trofeo brings the greatest performance. With 523 hp it can accelerate from 0-62 mph in under 4 seconds, and push all the way to a top speed of 177 mph.

  • 2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6

    2013 Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6x6

    © Mercedes-Benz

    It may not be the most powerful vehicle on this list, but the Mercedes-Benz G63 6×6 is certainly the craziest. Limited to 100 units, it adds a special pick-up design to the G-Wagen SUV body. Oh, and an extra rear axle for true six-wheel drive.

    Power comes from a twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter AMG V-8 engine, producing 536 hp and 560 lb-ft of torque. The latter is important, given that the G63 6×6 tips the scales at more than 8,100 lb. Top speed is limited to 100 mph, which is perhaps as fast you might ever want to go in something this huge.

  • 2020 Aston Martin DBX

    2020 Aston Martin DBX

    © Aston Martin

    Although the new DBX707 may be capturing the headlines, the regular Aston Martin DBX is still a potent performance SUV. Riding on air suspension, and with standard four-wheel drive, the DBX is surprisingly capable in the dirt.

    Like many modern Astons, a Mercedes-AMG engine is under the bonnet. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 delivers 542 hp, along with 516 lb-ft of torque. The 0-62mph sprint takes 4.8 seconds, with a 181 mph top speed.

  • 2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR

    2019 Jaguar F-Pace SVR

    © Jaguar

    Another British performance SUV that also happens to have an engine producing 542 hp. However, the F-Pace SVR uses a Jaguar Land Rover supercharged 5.0-liter V-8 to get its kicks.

    It will also accelerate faster from 0-62 mph than the Aston Martin, taking 3.9 seconds. The top speed of the F-Pace SVR is ‘only’ 176 mph, but that should be more than enough for most drivers. Oh, and it’s also around half the price of the DBX.

  • 2019 Rolls-Royce Cullinan

    2019 Rolls-Royce Cullinan

    © Rolls-Royce

    Talking about money almost seems beneath the first Rolls-Royce Cullinan, so we will focus on power and performance instead. The very first SUV made by Rolls-Royce makes use of a huge 6.75-liter twin-turbocharged V-12 engine.

    Such vast displacement results in an output of 563 hp, combined with 627 lb-ft of torque. All of this is handled by an eight-speed automatic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

    Four-wheel steering aims to make the Cullinan easier to park, whilst also boosting stability at high speed.

  • 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

    2022 Ford F-150 Lightning

    © Ford

    Along with electric SUVs, Ford is also on a charge when it comes to creating powerful battery powered pickup trucks. The F-150 Lightning promises serious horsepower, combined with instantaneous torque.

    All versions use a dual-motor setup, giving the Lightning all-wheel drive. For maximum power, buyers need to pick the Extended Range model. This offers 563 hp and 775 lb-ft of torque. Accelerating from 0-62mph will take just 4.5 seconds.

  • 2019 Range Rover Sport SVR

    2019 Range Rover Sport SVR

    © Land Rover

    The fastest and most powerful Land Rover SUV when launched, the second-generation Range Rover Sport SVR was a serious rival to sporting SUVs such as the Porsche Cayenne.

    A snorting 575 hp 5.0-liter supercharged V-8 propels it to 62 mph in 4.5 seconds, plus a top speed of 176 mph. The new Ultimate edition seen here boasts hand-finished paint, a contrasting black roof and gloss black 22-inch alloy wheels.

    Now replaced by the third-generation model featured earlier, the SVR certainly didn’t go quietly…

  • 2019 Maserati Levante Trofeo

    2019 Maserati Levante Trofeo

    © Maserati

    The regular Maserati Levante is already an impressive performance SUV, but the Trofeo version turns things up to 11. Upgrades for the Ferrari-built 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine include new pistons and a redesigned cylinder head.

    Where you live determines how much power your Levante Trofeo comes with. North American buyers get the full benefit of the upgrade, with 590 hp and 538 lb-ft of torque. Those in the European market have to make do with just 572 hp.

  • 2020 Audi RS Q8

    2020 Audi RS Q8

    © Audi

    Meet the current flagship of the Audi SUV range, and the model that currently holds the production SUV record for the Nordschleife Nurburgring circuit. Created as a coupe version of the gigantic Q7, the RS Q8 is the hottest version of all.

    Performance comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, delivering 592 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. Audi’s trademark Quattro all-wheel drive aids the impressive acceleration, with the RS Q8 able to run from 0-124 mph in less than 10 seconds. Option packs allow the top speed to be increased to 190 mph.

  • 2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Black Badge

    2025 Rolls-Royce Cullinan Series II Black Badge

    © Rolls-Royce

    The second generation of Rolls-Royce Cullinan Black Badge has evolved to become an even more assertive ultra-luxury SUV. With bolder styling and a more distinctive interior, the Series II Black Badge certainly makes a statement.

    Rolls-Royce has also enhanced the twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter V-12 engine, tuning it to deliver 600 hp and 664 lb-ft of torque. For such a huge and prestigious SUV, this translates into a 0-62 mph time of 5.3 seconds.

  • 2024 Range Rover SV P615

    2024 Range Rover SV P615

    © Land Rover

    Luxury and performance are combined in the latest update for the Range Rover SUV.

    Along with offering near endless bespoke customization options as part of the SV Bespoke service, the Range Rover is available with a new flagship engine.

    The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine in the P615 musters a mighty 606 hp, combined with 553 lb-ft of torque. Despite the size and weight of the long-wheelbase Range Rover, this allows for 0-62 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

  • 2023 Alpina XB7

    2023 Alpina XB7

    © Alpina

    The Alpina tuning company has now become part of BMW, which means we expect to see even more crazy creations in the future. Alpina’s attention has recently been focused on the revised BMW X7, resulting in the new XB7.

    We will avoid passing judgment on the looks, and instead focus upon the newly developed twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 engine. Equipped with mild-hybrid technology, the result is 613 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque.

  • 2020 BMW X5 M Competition

    2020 BMW X5 M Competition

    © BMW

    Crossing the 600 hp barrier sees us move into serious SUV performance territory, including the Competition version of the BMW X5 M. Although the standard performance version of the BMW SUV is more than enough, someone in Munich clearly felt it needed more.

    The 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 gets an extra 26 hp, taking total output to 617 hp. Torque stays the same at 553 lb-ft, but the 0-62 mph time falls by 0.1 of a second to 3.7 seconds.

    The same powertrain can be found in the BMW X6 M Competition, but we have gone for the slightly less controversial X5 here.

  • 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V

    2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V

    © Cadillac

    As Cadillac continues on a path of electrification, the Lyriq-V becomes the marque’s first battery-powered model to wear the performance V-Series badge.

    Using a more powerful dual-motor setup, the Lyriq-V has a peak output of 615 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque. Accessing this requires switching the Lyriq-V into ‘Velocity Max’ mode, enabling it to sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.3 seconds.

  • 2017 Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet

    2017 Mercedes-Maybach G 650 Landaulet

    © Mercedes-Maybach

    As an answer to a question nobody seemed to have asked, the Maybach G 650 Landaulet is quite a special creation. The ‘Landaulet’ name comes from a chauffeur-driven vehicle, with a folding soft-top roof over the rear seats. And that is exactly what the G 650 delivers, but with big power and vast ground clearance.

    Powering this special beast is a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged AMG V-12, with 621 hp and 738 lb-ft of torque. Should your chauffeur need to make up time, the G 650 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in six seconds. Mercedes-Benz only made 99 examples, clearly knowing just how small the pool of buyers would be.

  • 2020 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63

    2020 Mercedes-AMG GLS 63

    © Mercedes-Benz

    Intended for consumption in much larger numbers, and delivering more power, here’s the latest AMG version of the GLS. Sold as the SUV equivalent of the Mercedes S-Class, the American-built GLS combines space and luxury in an off-road package.

    For the performance AMG GLS 63 model, there is a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, combined with a 48V mild-hybrid system. The internal combustion engine brings 603 hp to the party, with the hybrid electric motor adding an extra 22 hp shot.

    More impressive is the additional torque boost of 184 lb-ft that the hybrid system can deliver. This allows a peak twist of 810 lb-ft for short periods of acceleration.

  • 2024 Range Rover Sport SV

    2024 Range Rover Sport SV

    © JLR

    Along with the Range Rover itself, the (slightly) smaller Range Rover Sport has also gained some extra firepower under the hood.

    The SV model is a new addition, also making use of a 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine. However, in the Range Rover Sport, it develops 626 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.

    Deploy all that power and a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds is possible.

  • 2019 Bentley Bentayga Speed

    2019 Bentley Bentayga Speed

    © Bentley

    As the Bentayga Speed’s name suggests, outright performance is the order of the day. It certainly delivers, with the Bentayga able to achieve 190.1 mph.

    Responsible for the Bentayga Speed’s turn of pace is a 6.0-liter twin-turbocharged W12 engine. It delivers a substantial 626 hp, along with a hefty 664 lb-ft of torque.

    Whilst the Bentayga might not be the most powerful vehicle on this list, it did previously allow Bentley the claim of building the fastest production SUV in the world.

  • Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

    Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT

    © Porsche

    The Turbo GT’s 4.0-liter V-8 musters 640 hp – up 90 hp over the regular Cayenne Turbo – for 0-62 mph in 3.3 seconds and 186 mph flat-out. It also gets every piece of chassis tech available, including rear-wheel steering, torque vectoring and active anti-roll bars.

    When we drove it we said: ‘Porsche has a long history of making SUVs feel like sports cars, and the Turbo GT is the most extreme example yet. It feels absurdly agile. Point it at a series of bends and all that technology leaps into action, defying physics and banishing any sense of inertia’.

  • 2018 Lamborghini Urus

    2018 Lamborghini Urus

    © Lamborghini

    One of the closest contenders for the prize of world’s fastest SUV is the Lamborghini Urus. The Italian machine shares a chassis platform with the Bentayga, but loses out on top speed by just 0.6 mph.

    Being able to hit 189.5 mph is still impressive, but we imagine Lamborghini engineers will be looking at ways of making the Urus even faster.

    Until then, the Urus will have a peak power of 641 hp. This comes from a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, as also seen in the Audi RS Q8 and various other Volkswagen Group products.

  • 2019 Roush Performance F-150 Nitemare

    2019 Roush Performance F-150 Nitemare

    © Roush Performance

    Ford tuning specialists Roush Performance claimed the title of the world’s fastest pick-up truck with the appropriately named Nitemare in 2019. Based on the ever-popular Ford F-150, Nitemare uses a supercharger and exhaust package to boost power far beyond the stock output.

    A total of 650 hp and 610 lb-ft of torque now resides beneath the hood of this truck. It makes for a 0-60 mph time of just 3.9 seconds, placing it amongst genuine supercars for acceleration. Yet it can still haul sheets of plywood and bales of hay.

  • 2026 BMW iX M70 xDrive

    2026 BMW iX M70 xDrive

    © BMW

    The electric BMW iX is arguably not the most attractive performance SUV on the market. But then you don’t have to look at it from behind the wheel…

    In range-topping M70 xDrive trim, the facelifted model now offers a total of 650 hp and 811 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motor setup.

    Despite the substantial weight of its battery pack, the iX M70 xDrive can accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.6 seconds.

  • 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST

    2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV RST

    © Chevrolet

    Electric pickup trucks are coming thick and fast, with the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado EV ready to deliver major performance. Chevrolet will initially offer its first electric truck in two flavors, with the flagship RST aimed at those who want maximum speed.

    The RST First Edition model will feature a ‘Wide Open Watts’ drive mode. With a dual-motor setup, the RST will generate 664 hp and 780 lb-ft of torque. It will allow the Silverado EV to accelerate from 0-60 mph in under 4.5 seconds.

  • 2022 Lamborghini Urus Performante

    2022 Lamborghini Urus Performante

    © Lamborghini

    Pushing the boundaries of SUV performance, Lamborghini has created an even more powerful version of the Urus. The Performante retains the same 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, but with its output raised to a devilish 666 hp.

    Extra horsepower is only part of the Urus Performante story, however. Lowered suspension, lightweight materials and widened bodywork are also part of the package.

    The options list even includes semi-slick Pirelli Trofeo R tires for track and road use.

  • 2016 Tesla Model X Ludicrous Performance

    2016 Tesla Model X Ludicrous Performance

    © Tesla

    When it was first launched, the Model X was unique on this list in being the only SUV without an internal combustion engine. Things have moved on since then, but 671 hp is still a substantial output.

    There’s also the small matter of 713 lb-ft of torque, available instantly, which means with ‘Ludicrous’ mode engaged the Model X can hit 62 mph in an astonishing 2.9 seconds. It will  even undertake some light off-roading, thanks to adjustable air suspension – and provides the option of seven seats.

  • 2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid

    2019 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid

    © Porsche

    Porsche purists have seemingly long forgotten their complaints about the Cayenne, given the important role it has played in helping the company survive. That Porsche has created ever-quicker examples of its largest SUV, too.

    The Turbo GT may have grabbed the headlines, but the most powerful Cayenne when the third-generation model launched was actually a plug-in hybrid. A 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine is matched with an electric motor, offering a combined output of 680 hp.

    A torque figure of 664 lb-ft also helps this wolf-in-sheep’s-clothing accelerate to 62 mph in 3.8 seconds.

  • 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V

    2023 Cadillac Escalade-V

    © Cadillac

    Does the world really need a performance version of the gigantic Cadillac Escalade? Apparently so, as the huge SUV has become the latest model to join the V-Series range.

    A 6.2-liter supercharged V-8 generates 682 hp, along with a considerable 653 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive, a ten-speed automatic transmission and even launch control, allowed the Escalade-V to accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

  • 2022 Aston Martin DBX707

    2022 Aston Martin DBX707

    © Aston Martin

    As impressive as the regular Aston Martin DBX may be, the flagship DBX707 takes things even further. Using a modified version of the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine, with components upgraded by Aston Martin Powertrain Engineering.

    An output of 707 PS (693 hp) gives the DBX707 its name, and also its hardcore performance. Using a new ‘Race Start’ launch mode, the DBX707 can accelerate from 0-62 mph in 3.3 seconds, and on to a top speed of 193 mph.

  • 2000 BMW X5 LM

    2000 BMW X5 LM

    © BMW

    We’re cheating a little bit here, as the X5 LM was not a production car. Instead it was the result of BMW engineers replacing the regular 4.8-liter V-8 engine from the X5 with the 6.0-liter V-12 from a Le Mans-winning racer.

    The S70/2 motorsport engine made a ridiculous 700 hp and 531 lb-ft, endowing the LM with a top speed of 173 mph.

    More impressive was the lap time set at the Nürburgring, by ace driver Hans Joachim Stuck, of seven minutes 50 seconds. So while not a true road car, the X5 LM is far too impressive to leave off this list.

  • 2021 Ram 1500 TRX

    2021 Ram 1500 TRX

    © Ram

    The Ram 1500 TRX was the closest natural competitor to the Ford F-150 Raptor, with an emphasis on serious off-road ability. Production ceased at the end of 2023, though.

    A 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V-8 engine, as found in the Dodge Challenger Hellcat, provides the go. Peak power is a massive 702 hp, with torque equally huge at 650 lb-ft. That was enough for Ram to proclaim the 1500 TRX as being the ‘fastest and most powerful mass-produced truck in the world’.

    Being able to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds backs up the claim of serious performance. Although Hennessey versions go quicker, of course…

  • 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

    2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

    © Jeep

    For a genuine street-legal SUV with in excess of 700 hp, say hello to the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. As the name suggests, this is a version of the classic Grand Cherokee built to perform at its best on a race circuit.

    Helping it perform is the 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V-8 engine, taken from the Dodge Challenger Hellcat muscle car. In the Jeep it produces 707 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to run from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Top speed is an impressive 180mph, although another vehicle has stolen the Trackhawk’s Mopar performance crown.

  • 2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

    2021 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat

    © Dodge

    Sharing a platform with the Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk means making a Hellcat-powered version of the Dodge Durango is a relatively easy task. The same 6.2-liter supercharged Hemi V-8 is found under the bonnet, but with an additional 3 hp taking total output to 710 hp. Torque stays the same, at 645 lb-ft.

    Dodge is pitching the Durango SRT Hellcat as the option for families who outgrow a Challenger or Charger muscle car. It can accommodate up to seven with three rows of seating, but still does 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds. Set to only be sold for the 2021 model year, buyers will need to be just as quick to get one.

  • 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R

    2024 Ford F-150 Raptor R

    © Ford

    Unleashed as the ultimate in the Ford F-150 Raptor series, the R pushes things to the next level. It also acts as a throwback to V-8 power for Ford enthusiasts disappointed that the regular Raptor now uses an EcoBoost V-6.

    The Raptor R comes equipped with a supercharged 5.2-liter ‘Carnivore’ V-8 engine, which serves up 720 hp and 640 lb-ft of torque.

    Previously used in the Mustang Shelby GT500, Ford claims this is the most ‘torque-dense supercharged V-8’ used in a production pickup.

  • 2023 Ferrari Purosangue

    2023 Ferrari Purosangue

    © Ferrari

    The Purosangue is the first four-door Ferrari, with an emphasis on ultimate performance and luxury. Four adults can be seated inside, and there is even generous space for luggage as well.

    At the heart of the Purosangue is a naturally aspirated 6.5-liter V-12 engine, producing a mighty 725 hp. This is accompanied by 528 lb-ft of torque, and allows Purosangue to accelerate from 0-62 mph in just 3.3 seconds.

    Just remember not to call it an SUV…

  • 2024 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid

    2024 Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid

    © Porsche

    Not content with the original, third-generation Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, Porsche has given its performance SUV even more power for the 2024 model year.

    The hybrid version remains the most powerful model in the Cayenne range, with total outputs of 729 hp and 701 lb-ft of torque.

    This reduces the SUV’s 0-62 mph time to 3.5 seconds, or just 3.4 seconds with an optional Lightweight Sports Package.

  • 2023 BMW XM Label Red Edition

    2023 BMW XM Label Red Edition

    © BMW

    Almost as controversial as the Ferrari Purosangue, the XM is only the second vehicle ever to be developed exclusively by BMW’s M division. It is certainly nothing like the mid-engined M1 supercar from 1978.

    Instead, the XM is a full-size crossover SUV, powered by a 4.4-liter V-8 engine, combined with an electric motor for hybrid performance. In range-topping Red Label trim, the result is a combined output of 738 horsepower.

    Accelerating from 0-62 mph takes just 3.9 seconds, with the Red Label still able to cover more than 50 miles on battery power alone.

  • 2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ

    2025 Cadillac Escalade iQ

    © Cadillac

    It says a lot about electrification when the supercharged Escalade-V is not even the most powerful Cadillac on this list.

    Instead, the Escalade iQ takes that prize, with its dual-motor electric powertrain capable of producing 750 hp and 785 lb-ft of torque.

    Like with the smaller Lyriq-V, engaging ‘Velocity Max’ mode is required to unlock maximum performance. Doing so means this colossal electric SUV can hit 60 mph in less than five seconds.

  • 2021 Shelby Super Snake Sport

    2021 Shelby Super Snake Sport

    © Shelby

    Created as the most powerful truck to wear the Shelby badge, the 2021 Super Snake Sport is designed to offer muscle car performance in a truck body.

    Powering the Super Snake Sport is a supercharged 5.0-liter V-8, generating 775 hp. With all-wheel drive as standard, the Shelby will accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.45 seconds, and 0-100 mph in 8 seconds.

    Shelby plans to produce just 600 units, split between two- and four-door versions. Opting for the two-door model includes adjustable lowered suspension and 22-inch wheels.

  • 2022 Brabus 800 XLP Adventure Superblack

    2022 Brabus 800 XLP Adventure Superblack

    © Brabus

    German tuner Brabus has developed a formidable reputation for building insane machines. Based upon a Mercedes-Benz G-Class SUV, the 800 XLP Adventure is one of its most extreme creations.

    Brabus has turned the G-Class into a custom pickup truck, using carbon fiber and steel. Height-adjustable coilover suspension, and portal axles, allow the 800 XLP Adventure to venture far off-road.

    Star of the show is a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V-8 engine, generating 789 hp and 773 lb-ft of torque. Off-road tires limit the top speed to 130 mph, but the 800 XLP Adventure can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds.

  • 2022 Rivian R1T

    2022 Rivian R1T

    © Rivian

    Developed with substantial investment from Ford and Amazon, Michigan-based Rivian Automotive has made the R1T into an impressive electric pickup truck.

    A quad-motor setup delivers a combined 835 horsepower, and a 0-60 mph time of just three seconds.

  • 2024 Tesla Cybertruck

    2024 Tesla Cybertruck

    © Tesla

    Tesla kept notably quiet about final specifications for the Cybertruck, despite its electric utility vehicle first being announced back in 2019.

    The Cybertruck is initially offered with dual- and tri-motor setups, combined with standard all-wheel drive. The 600 hp dual-motor version is estimated to hit 60 mph in 4.1 seconds, with the 845 hp tri-motor truck requiring only 2.6 seconds.

    An even more powerful quad-motor model is expected to join the Cybertruck range – and has the potential to be the most powerful and fastest vehicle on this list. However, it has yet to make an appearance.

  • 2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1

    2022 GMC Hummer EV Edition 1

    © GMC Hummer

    Proving, yet again, that battery power is not a barrier to performance is the Hummer EV. Revived by General Motors as a sub-brand of its GMC marque, the Hummer name now stands for off-road ability with a battery twist.

    This square-jawed electric pick-up is the result, with the Edition 1 launch model generating 1,000 hp from a tri-motor setup. The Hummer EV can cover up to 329 miles, and is able to run from 0-60 mph in three seconds.

    Also installed on the Edition 1 are 35-inch tires, and the ability for the Hummer EV to ‘crab walk’ and move diagonally.

  • 2020 Hennessey Performance Maximus 1000

    2020 Hennessey Performance Maximus 1000

    © Hennessey Performance

    If the idea of battery-powered performance utility vehicles is still too much to take, Hennessey Performance provides internal combustion salvation. The Maximus 1000 offers an off-road capable take on big power.

    The Maximus 1000 is a Jeep Gladiator pickup truck, but fitted with the ubiquitous Hellcat supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V-8. Hennessey subjects it to substantial upgrades, pushing the power output to a wild 1,000 hp and 933 lb-ft hp of torque.

    It also adds lifted suspension and a leather-lined interior, and even includes a three-year/36,000-mile warranty.

  • 2024 Hennessey ‘Last Stand’ Mammoth 1000

    2024 Hennessey ‘Last Stand’ Mammoth 1000

    © Hennessey Performance

    Production of the Ram 1500 TRX finished at the end of 2023, meaning the Hennessey Mammoth 1000 now faces extinction as well. To commemorate its passing, Hennessey has created a special ‘Last Stand’ edition.

    Along with new exterior graphics, the key attraction is the supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V-8 engine. For the Mammoth 1000, this means a total of 1,012 hp and 969 lb-ft of torque.

    Able to tackle almost any terrain, the Mammoth 1000 accelerates from 0-60 mph in only 3.2 seconds. It can also run a quarter-mile in 11.4 seconds.

  • 2021 Hennessey Mammoth 6x6

    2021 Hennessey Mammoth 6x6

    © Hennessey Performance

    Is there such a thing as too much power? Hennessey Performance certainly does not think so, pushing everything to the maximum with the insane Mammoth 6×6.

    Based on the Ram 1500 TRX, Hennessey replaces the already powerful engine with a 7.0-liter Dodge ‘Hellephant’ crate V-8. Even the base 1,000 hp is not enough, with extra tuning taking the output to a colossal 1,200 hp.

    A conversion to six-wheel drive, extended bodywork, and new off-road suspension are all part of the package. Hennessey plans to build just three examples of this terrifying pickup truck.

Latest Car News

Ford Explorer EV is now available as a van

Ford has created a van version of its Explorer electric SUV, with utilitarian steel wheels and a payload of up to 650kg.

Honda Super-N EV confirmed for UK – priced from under £20k

The new Honda Super-N is a retro-styled city EV with a 199-mile range and a price tag of less than £20,000. And it goes on sale this summer!

Motorists still shying away from high-mileage used cars

New research shows that 81 percent of UK motorists would hesitate to buy a car with high mileage, and half consider 50,000 miles too much.
John Redfern
John Redfern
U.S. Editor with a love of all things Americana. Woodgrain-clad station wagons and ridiculous muscle cars a speciality.