The 2017 Chevy Suburban is the ne plus ultra of SUVs; it'll tow up to 8,300 pounds and carry up to nine passengers without a fuss. The current Suburban is completely up to date, though. Revamped for the 2015 model year, it's sold in LS, LT, and Premier trims. In all of them, it's a towing and hauling champion, with extreme interior space to boot—and a big dose of connectivity for long road trips and on-site job needs. We rate it at 6.2 out of 10, with a nod toward its exceptional trailering talent and for its vast interior room.
Pros Unabashedly an SUV Much-improved cabin Excellent new V-8 drivetrain More safety and better infotainment features
Cons Very angular styling One powertrain fits all One of the biggest vehicles you can buy
The 2017 Chevrolet Suburban ranks 5 out of 6 Large SUVs. The Chevrolet Suburban offers an upscale cabin loaded with features, roomy seats, and one of the largest cargo capacities in the class. However, some competitors have a lower starting price, better crash test scores, and a higher towing capacity than the Suburban.
Pros Hushed, upscale interior Generous cargo room Cushioned ride
Cons Lower safety scores than some rivals Lower towing capacity than rivals
For 2017 the Chevrolet Suburban changes the name of its top trim level to Premier. New features for the lineup of Suburban models include automatic low-speed emergency braking paired with the existing forward collision warning system, a teen-driver location management system, and a reminder to check the backseats for child occupants before leaving the vehicle. Simple ventilated seats replace the former cooled seats, and the rear entertainment system has been updated.
Pros Seating for up to nine passengers Cargo capacity is generous High-quality interior adds some luxury Strong V8 engine is up to the task.
Cons Maneuvering in tight spaces is challenging High cargo floor means more effort to load objects Throttle response is sluggish Maximum passenger capacity is available only in the base model.
The 2017 Ford Expedition ranks 2 out of 6 Large SUVs. The 2017 Ford Expedition gives you three rows of roomy seating, and an available extended wheelbase model offers class-leading interior and cargo space. However, some competing large SUVs offer extra features and better fuel economy.
Pros Excellent cargo capacity in the EL model Spacious seating in all three rows Smooth ride Powerful engine
Cons Some low-grade materials in cabin
Old school is in session: The 2017 Ford Expedition teaches a few lessons to today's crossover SUVs with twin-turbo power, luxury-truck touches, and big towing and hauling numbers. The Expedition isn't just surviving, it's thriving. In 2015 it subbed in a whomping turbo V-6 for its V-8, gained an adaptive suspension and a new infotainment system, and slathered on a fresh layer of luxury touches. A decade or more past its last, serious redesign, the Expedition hasn't ever been better.
Pros Stronger, higher-mpg engine Should ride smoother and quieter than ever Good third-row space in EL model Plush King Ranch interior Drives smaller than it looks
Cons It's still an 8-year-old design Not easy to park, even with rearview camera Gas mileage has made gains, but not big ones
There are plenty of car-based crossovers to choose from these days. But there are times when you might want the capabilities of a beefy, traditional SUV. The 2017 Ford Expedition is one of our top recommendations in this segment thanks to massive passenger, cargo and towing capabilities. The 2017 Ford Expedition carries over with no significant changes.
Pros Roomy third-row seat Strong and efficient turbocharged V6 Easy-folding rear seats increase interior flexibility Tows more than similarly sized crossovers
Cons Undeniably bulky size makes it difficult to park (especially the extended-wheelbase EL version) Interior looks a bit dated.
