It might not be the priciest SUV on the market, but ownership data suggests segment-busting running costs.
Car buyers have to consider more than a vehicle’s MSRP when shopping for their rides. A vehicle’s cost-to-run comes into account, considering how much it will cost an owner to drive, insure, and maintain their vehicle on an annual basis. That’s why some buyers might want to think twice or budget for the most expensive, popular vehicle in the country to run. It’s the Chevrolet Tahoe, and the fast-selling full-size SUV is pricier to run than most.
The Chevrolet Tahoe, a popular full-size SUV, takes the No. 1 spot among the most expensive vehicles to run
When you buy a car, you have to consider more than its list price. For instance, your gas-powered or hybrid vehicle will have an annual fuel cost in addition to the average cost to insure and maintain it. Taking those factors into consideration, the full-size Chevrolet Tahoe SUV is the “most expensive car to run” among the country’s best-selling vehicles.
| Make and model (best-selling vehicles) | Annual running costs |
|---|---|
| Chevrolet Tahoe | $8,644 |
| Lexus RX | $5,104 |
| RAM 1500 | $7,981 |
| Toyota 4Runner | $7,820 |
| Chevrolet Silverado | $7,699 |
According to Self Financial and Forbes Advisor data, the Chevrolet Tahoe’s average annual fuel costs come in at around $3,276. Staggeringly, that figure means the Chevy full-size SUV is over twice as thirsty as the Honda CR-V Hybrid, another popular SUV option. Frankly, the Tahoe’s gasoline gluttony seems manageable when compared to the RAM 1500 and its $3,583 average.
Moreover, the Chevrolet Tahoe’s $1,991 average annual maintenance costs put it ahead of the RAM 1500, Toyota 4Runner, and Ford Bronco. Still, the Bronco isn’t quite as expensive to maintain as other premium alternatives like the Lexus RX and GMC Terrain.
In addition to the Chevy full-size SUV’s appetite for fuel and its maintenance costs, the data suggests that insuring a Chevrolet Tahoe is a bit more expensive than some comparable vehicles. For instance, the Tahoe’s $2,058 average annual insurance costs make it pricier to insure than the RAM 1500, Chevrolet Silverado, and Kia Telluride.
