New 2025 full-size SUVs Compared: Tahoe, Expedition, Armada and more!

With several new models or refreshed versions on the market, the list of new 2025 full-size SUVs compared is lengthy and surprising. These body-on-frame SUVs are amongst the most popular vehicles on the market.

2025 full-size SUVs compared

Before we dig into each model, let’s lay the groundwork. First, in the past year, I’ve driven each of these models. Second, I’m talking only about body-on-frame models. Third, I’m leaving out their luxury counterparts so no Lincoln Navigator, Infiniti QX80, Jeep Grand Wagoneer or Cadillac Escalade. Fourth, I’m leaving out the Chevy Suburban and Yukon XL. They are just longer versions of the Tahoe and Yukon respectively. This includes the Expedition Max. Fifth, I’ll give you the highlights for each model then wrap it up at the end with my overall thoughts.

The competitors will be: the Chevy Tahoe, GMC Yukon, Ford Expedition, Jeep Wagoneer, Nissan Armada, Toyota Sequoia.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of General Motors.

2025 Chevy Tahoe highlights

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe introduces a significant refresh with a new interior, a diesel option in the Z71 trim, new technology and an updated exterior appearance. 

Performance & powertrain

• Engine options:
  • 5.3L V-8: Produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque
  • 6.2L V-8: Delivers 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque
  • 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I-6: Delivers 305 horsepower 495 pound-feet of torque
• Transmission: All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for smooth and responsive shifting.
  
• Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the Tahoe can tow up to 8,200 pounds.

Fuel economy

• 5.3L V-8 (regular gasoline)
  • 2WD: 15 city / 20 hwy / 17 combined
  • 4WD: 15 city / 19 hwy / 17 combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons
• 6.2L V-8 (premium gasoline)
  • 2WD: 15 city / 20 hwy / 17 combined
  • 4WD: 14 city / 18 hwy / 16 combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons
• 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6
  • 2WD: 22 city / 28 hwy / 24 combined
  • 4WD: 20 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• Standard features:
  • Chevy Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist and more
  • Teen Driver mode and Buckle to Drive feature for added safety
• Available technologies:
  • Super Cruise, hands-free driving assistance on compatible highways
  • Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist
  • HD Surround Vision Camera for improved visibility

Off-road model (Z71)

• Ground clearance: 8 inches trim 
• Enhanced Approach Angle: Features a high-approach front fascia, skid plates and red tow hooks for improved off-road performance.
• Adaptive Air Ride Suspension (optional): Raises ground clearance up to 10 inches for better off-road capability
• Off-road features: Includes all-terrain tires, skid plates, and a locking rear differential to enhance traction and durability

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: A new 17.7-inch diagonal central touchscreen serves as the command center for infotainment and vehicle settings
  
• Connectivity: Standard Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Available 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
  
• Rear-seat entertainment: Optional system with streaming capabilities (e.g., Hulu, YouTube) and HDMI ports for gaming consoles, enhancing passenger experience on long trips.

Interior & comfort

• Seating: Accommodates up to eight passengers, with options for second-row captain’s chairs or bench seating. Available massaging front seats for added comfort in High Country trim.
  
• Cargo space: Offers up to 122.7 cubic-feet of cargo space with rear seats folded

• Convenience features: Available power-sliding center console for added storage flexibility and providing better access to cup holders for second-row passengers; Power-folding third-row seats accessible via the central touchscreen

Pricing & trims

• Trims: LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier and High Country

• Starting MSRP: Prices range from approximately $59,000 for the LS trim to $81,700 for the High Country trim

Quick take

The Chevy Tahoe upgrades really are worth it for the 2025 model year. I’m a big fan of the 3.0-liter Duramax diesel for how well it drives and fuel economy. The seats are a big improvement. And the 17.7-inch infotainment screen is easy to use with the Google built-in software. It provides the same commanding view of the road and feels safe for families. Plus, the dual use of towing and hauling the family makes it very useful for adventurous families.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of General Motors.

2025 GMC Yukon highlights

Much like the Tahoe, the 2025 GMC Yukon also includes significant updates to its styling, technology and many other items for the 2025 model year.

Performance & powertrain

• Engine Options:
  • 5.3L V-8: Produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque
  • 6.2L V-8: Delivers 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque
  • 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6:  Delivers 305 horsepower and 495 pound-feet of torque
• Transmission: All engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Towing Capacity: When properly equipped, the Yukon can tow up to 8,200 pounds.

Fuel economy

• 5.3L V8 (regular gasoline)
  • 2WD: 15 city / 20 hwy / 17 combined
  • 4WD: 15 city / 19 hwy / 17 combined
  • Yukon XL 4WD: 14 city / 19 hwy / 16 combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons

• 6.2L V8 (premium gasoline)
  • 2WD: 15 city / 20 hwy / 17 combined
  • 4WD: 14 city / 18 hwy / 16 combined
  • Yukon XL 2WD: 15 city / 19 hwy / 16 combined
  • Yukon XL 4WD: 14 MPG city / 18 MPG highway / 16 MPG combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons

• 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6
  • 2WD: 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined
  • 4WD: 20 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined
  • Yukon XL 2WD: 21 city / 26 hwy / 23 combined
  • Yukon XL 4WD: 20 city / 26 hwy / 22 combined
  • Gas tank capacity: 24.0 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• Standard features:
  • GMC Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist and more
  • Teen Driver mode and Buckle to Drive feature for added safety
• Available technologies:
  • Super Cruise, hands-free driving assistance on compatible highways.
  • Enhanced Automatic Parking Assist
  • HD Surround Vision Camera for improved visibility

Off-road model (AT4 and AT4 Ultimate)

• Standard 4WD with Two-Speed Transfer Case: Both trims come equipped with a two-speed transfer case.
• Adaptive Suspension Systems:
  • AT4: Magnetic Ride Control Suspension
  • AT4 Ultimate: Upgrades to a Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, allowing the vehicle to raise up to 2 inches for better ground clearance.
• Hill Descent Control: Assists in maintaining a controlled speed on steep declines.
• 20-Inch Wheels with All-Terrain Tires: Both trims feature 20-inch wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires.
• Front Skid Plate: Provides underbody protection during off-road excursions.
• Distinctive Styling:
  • AT4: Features a black chrome grille and red recovery hooks.
  • AT4 Ultimate: Adds unique Talos Bronze Metallic-painted wheels and power-retractable assist steps with perimeter lighting.
• Night Vision: Available on the AT4 Ultimate, this feature uses thermal imaging to detect pedestrians and animals in low-light conditions.

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: A new 16.8-inch diagonal central touchscreen serves as the command center for infotainment and vehicle settings
  
• Connectivity: Standard Google built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Available 5G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
  
• Rear-seat entertainment: Optional system with streaming capabilities and HDMI ports for gaming consoles, enhancing passenger experience on long trips

Interior & comfort

• Seating: Accommodates up to eight passengers, with options for second-row captain’s chairs or bench seating. Standard massaging front seats for added comfort in Denali Ultimate trim with available second-row massage seats.
  
• Cargo space: Offers up to 121.7 cubic-feet of cargo space with rear seats folded

• Convenience Features: Available power-sliding center console for added storage flexibility and for providing easier access to cup holders for second-row passengers; Power-folding third-row seats accessible via the central touchscreen

Pricing & trims

• Trims: Elevation, AT4, AT4 Ultimate, Denali, and Denali Ultimate
  
• Starting MSRP: Prices range from approximately $66,900 for the Elevation trim to $101,300 for the Denali Ultimate trim

Quick take

The 2025 GMC Yukon has a more premium feel with a higher price point than the Chevy Tahoe making it feel more luxurious without going into Cadillac territory. The vertical screen distinguishes it in a big way, literally, and it certainly can be a dealbreaker for some people. Overall, this is a slightly fancier version of the Tahoe.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of Ford Motor Co.

2025 Ford Expedition highlights

The 2025 Ford Expedition has undergone a significant redesign, introducing new trims, advanced technology and enhanced off-road capabilities. 

Performance & powertrain

• Engine Options:
  • 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 (regular gasoline): 400 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque
  • High-output 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 (regular gasoline): 440 horsepower and 510 pound-ft of torque (Tremor exclusive)
• Transmission: Both engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
  
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is standard on the base Active trim; Four-wheel drive (4WD) is available and becomes standard on higher trims.
  
• Towing capacity: Up to 9,600 pounds when properly equipped, up to 7,000 pounds without weight-distributing hitch. Features like Pro Trailer Hitch Assist and Pro Trailer Backup Assist aid in towing.

Fuel economy

• 2WD: 16 City / 24 HWY/ 19 Combined
• 4WD: 15 City / 22 HWY / 18 Combined
• Gas tank capacity: 23 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• BlueCruise Hands-Free Driving: Available on select trims, this system offers semi-autonomous driving capabilities on approved highways
  
• Ford Co-Pilot360:
  • Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Emergency Braking
  • Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert
  • Lane-Keeping System
  • Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop-and-Go
  • 360-Degree Camera with Split-View Display
• Additional features: Hill Descent Control, Trailer Sway Control, Rearview Camera with Backup Assist Grid Lines
  

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: 24-inch panoramic digital instrument cluster, 13.2-inch center touchscreen with SYNC 4A system
  
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Google built in and Amazon Alexa compatibility, Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot

Off-road model (Tremor)

• Features: 33-inch all-terrain tires, electronic-locking rear differential, underbody skid plates, Terrain Management System with selectable drive modes (e.g., Mud/Ruts, Sand, Snow), Hill Descent Control for controlled descents on steep terrains
  
• Ground Clearance: Enhanced to 10.6 inches for improved off-road performance.
  

Interior & comfort

• Seating: Accommodates up to eight passengers with available second-row captain’s chairs.
  
• Cargo space: Up to 108.5 cubic-feet.
  
• Noteworthy items: Flex Powered Console: Center console that slides back nearly 8 inches, revealing additional storage and providing easier access for second-row passengers; Split Gate Liftgate: Upper and lower sections open separately, allowing for versatile cargo loading and even serving as seating or a table surface; Cargo Tailgate Manager: Optional feature that transforms the tailgate into a table with fold-out legs.

Pricing & trims

• Trims: Active, Platinum, Tremor, King Ranch.
• Starting MSRP: Prices range from approximately $62,000 for the Active trim to $83,655 for King Ranch.

Quick take

The 2025 Ford Expedition’s redesign brings a big change to the full-size SUV, and it was much needed. The interior layout will be off putting to some, and others will feel right at home with the driver’s dash screen being well placed. It makes you wonder why we weren’t doing it this way for years! The split tailgate is great for tailgating, loading or unloading luggage or tent camping. It would just be nice if there were more power options in the rear and more engine options overall.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of Stellantis North America.

2025 Jeep Wagoneer highlights

The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer is the brand’s first three-row body-on-frame SUV and has had an interesting start to its life. Originally slated to be its own “Wagoneer” brand, the focus was really on the more luxurious Grand Wagoneer model. Now, it is back to being a Jeep and the attention is back on it to become the volume seller Jeep desperately needs it to be. Frankly, it is good enough to attract a lot more attention than it is at the moment.

Performance & powertrain

• Engine: Hurricane Twin Turbo 3.0L I-6 engine delivers 420 horsepower and 468 pound-feet of torque (regular gasoline).
  
• Transmission: Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Wagoneer offers both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD) configurations.
  
• Towing capacity: When properly equipped, the Wagoneer can tow up to 10,000 pounds.

Fuel economy

• 2WD: 17 city / 24 hwy / 20 combined
• 4WD: 16 city / 23 hwy / 19 combined
• Gas tank size: 26.5 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• Standard features: Active Lane Management, Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Path Detection
  
• Available technologies: Intersection Collision Assist, Drowsy Driver Detection, Night Vision with Pedestrian and Animal Detection

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: A 10.1-inch central touchscreen serves as the command center for infotainment and vehicle settings; Optional 10.25-inch passenger interactive display
  
• Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Available 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot
  
• Rear-seat entertainment: Optional dual 10.1-inch screens with Amazon Fire TV integration, allowing passengers to stream content independently

Interior & comfort

• Seating: Accommodates up to eight passengers, with options for second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat
  
• Cargo space: Offers ample cargo space with all seats up, and significantly more when the third-row seats are folded

Pricing & trims

• Trims: Available in multiple trims: Wagoneer Series I, Series II, Series III and Carbide.
  
• Starting MSRP: Prices start around $62,000 for the base model, with higher trims reaching upwards of $80,000, depending on options and packages.

Quick take

The 2025 Jeep Wagoneer is the other choice in the lineup for those who are tired of always driving the Tahoe and Expedition. They don’t want to buy a Nissan or Toyota and want to stay with an American brand. It offers the really smooth Hurricane engine and has a really nice exterior and interior style. I remain a bit puzzled why sales are pretty poor (down -59% Q1 2025 / 5,400 vs 13,131) for the SUV besides poor marketing. It really should be selling better.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of Nissan North America.

2025 Nissan Armada highlights

The 2025 Nissan Armada has undergone a comprehensive redesign and it is night and day different from the outgoing model. It is without a doubt much better in every aspect albeit there is some disagreement with dropping the V-8 engine in favor of a small turbocharged engine for some customers.

Performance & powertrain

• Engine: All trims are equipped with a new 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 425 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque.
  
• Transmission: Paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
  
• Towing capacity: Standard towing capacity is 8,500 pounds across all trims.

Fuel economy

• 2WD: 16 City / 20 HWY/ 18 Combined
• 4WD: 16 City/ 19 HWY/ 17 Combined
• 4WD (PRO-4X): 15 City / 18 HWY / 16 Combined
• Gas tank capacity: 23.6 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• Standard Features: Includes Nissan Safety Shield 360, featuring forward and rear automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and more
  
• ProPILOT Assist: Standard on SV and PRO-4X models, combining adaptive cruise control with steering assistance for enhanced highway driving
  
• Trailer Blind Spot Monitoring: New feature that accounts for trailer length (up to 33 feet) to warn of vehicles in blind spots while towing

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: Dual 12.3-inch screens are standard on lower trims, while PRO-4X, Platinum and Platinum Reserve models upgrade to dual 14.3-inch displays
  
• Connectivity: Features include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Google Assistant integration and Wi-Fi hotspot
  

Off-road model (PRO-4X)

• Drive Modes: Offers eight selectable drive modes, including Standard, Eco, Sport, Tow, Snow, Sand, Rock, and Mud/Rut
  
• Ground Clearance: Enhanced to 9.6 inches with Adaptive Electronic Air Suspension
  
• Off-Road Features: Includes Hill Descent Control, electronic locking rear differential and specialized camera views like the Invisible Hood View for improved visibility on rough terrain

Interior & comfort

• Seating: Accommodates up to eight passengers, with available quilted leather-appointed seating and optional massaging front seats on higher trims
  
• Cargo space: Increased to 20.4 cubic-feet behind the third row, 56.3 cubic-feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 97.1 cubic-feet with all rear seats folded

 Pricing & trims

• Trims: Available in five trims: SV, SL, PRO-4X, Platinum and Platinum Reserve
  
• Starting MSRP: Prices range from $57,520 for the SV 4×2 to $76,990 for the Platinum Reserve 4×2

Quick take

The 2025 Nissan Armada’s redesign makes it a much stronger competitor and it feels much quicker with the new powertrain. While the V-8 is gone, the improved performance in fuel economy and performance is win even with concerns over reliability from turbo-wary consumers. Inside, it is like stepping forward 10 years from the prior model. Nissan knocked this one out of the park.

Editor’s note: Photos above courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales.

2025 Toyota Sequoia highlights

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia was redone in 2022 and with just a few changes in the higher-end Capstone trim through introducing massaging seats, not much has changed.

Performance & powertrain

• Hybrid powertrain: Every 2025 Sequoia is equipped with Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid system, featuring a 3.4L twin-turbo V-6 engine paired with an electric motor. This setup delivers a combined output of 437 horsepower and 583 pound-feet of torque. 
  
• Transmission: A 10-speed automatic transmission is standard, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as the default and four-wheel drive (4WD) available across most trims.
  
• Towing capacity: Depending on the configuration, the Sequoia can tow up to 9,520 pounds.

Fuel economy

• 2WD: 21 city / 24 hwy / 22 combined
• 4WD: 19 city / 22 hwy / 20 combined
• Gas tank size: 22.5 gallons

Safety & driver assistance

• Toyota Safety Sense 3.0: Standard across all trims, this suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, pre-collision system with pedestrian detection and more.
  
• Additional features: Available technologies include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a panoramic view monitor to enhance driver awareness.

Technology & infotainment

• Displays: A 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia touchscreen is available, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration; A 12.3-inch full-color digital gauge cluster provides customizable driving information
  
• Connectivity: The Sequoia offers Wi-Fi capability and multiple USB ports to keep all passengers connected

Off-road model (TRD Pro)

• Drive Modes:
  • Multi-Terrain Select (MTS): Allows drivers to choose from multiple terrain modes, optimizing traction and performance.
  • Crawl Control (CRAWL): Assists in maintaining a steady speed over challenging terrains without the need for manual acceleration or braking.
  • Downhill Assist Control (DAC): Helps maintain a controlled speed when descending steep slopes
  • Multi-Terrain Monitor (MTM): Provides selectable front, side, and rear camera views to assist in navigating obstacles.
    
• Off-Road Suspension & Drivetrain
  • FOX Suspension System: Equipped with 2.5-inch FOX Internal Bypass coil-over shocks at the front and rear remote-reservoir shocks, providing enhanced damping performance and durability on rough terrains.
  • TRD Pro Front Stabilizer Bar: Enhances stability and control during off-road driving.
  • 25 mm Front Lift: Increases ground clearance, allowing for better obstacle navigation.
  • Electronically Controlled Locking Rear Differential: Provides improved traction by ensuring both rear wheels move at the same speed.
  • 4WDemand Part-Time 4WD System: Features an electronically controlled two-speed transfer case with high and low range, offering versatility for various driving conditions.
• Exterior changes
  • TRD Aluminum Front Skid Plate
  • 18-Inch TRD Pro Matte-Black Forged-Aluminum BBS Wheels
  • All-Terrain 285/65R18 Tires
  • Black “TOYOTA” Heritage Grille with Integrated LED Light Bar and Amber Marker Lights
  • TRD Cast-Aluminum Running Boards
    
    

Interior & comfort

• Seating capacity: The Sequoia accommodates up to eight passengers, with options for second-row captain’s chairs or a bench seat.
  
• Cargo space: the cargo area provides up to 86.9 cubic-feet with rear seats folded.

Pricing & trims

• Trims: The 2025 Sequoia is available in six trims: SR5, Limited, Platinum, 1794 Edition, TRD Pro, and Capstone.
  
• Starting MSRP: Prices range from approximately $62,425 for the SR5 trim to $83,915 for the Capstone trim, excluding destination fees.

Quick take

The 2025 Toyota Sequoia had a lot of promise when it debuted, but the controversial rear-storage setup with a removable shelving setup stole a lot of its attention from consumers and car reviewers focusing on detailing the setup. It should have been a unique way to store cargo and instead became a distraction. Overall, it hasn’t lived up to its promise and a refresh is needed to reignite the spark to make it more competitive especially now with new competitors on the market.

Our take on the 2025 full-size SUVs

After nearly 3,000 words filled with specs, quick takes and then combining my experiences behind the wheel of all of them, what does it all come down to in quick, simple terms? They are all pretty damn good, except for one.

If I had my choice, I’d go with the GMC Yukon with the Duramax diesel. I’m a sucker for the fuel economy and the inline-6 engine. Plus, I just like the Yukon interior that much better than the Tahoe. Nothing against the Tahoe. 

Back up choice has to be the Jeep Wagooner with the Hurricane engine. Like the Nissan Armada, it is a turbocharged engine, and while I understand the reliability concerns people have about potentially replacing turbos, they are just a heck of a lot of fun to drive. Like the Duramax, the Hurricane is an inline-6, and it is so smooth. 

For the Ford Expedition, I really like what they have done, I just want more. More powertrains specifically. Plus, a digital rearview mirror is a must for me with a full-size three-row SUV. 

The Armada is a really smooth ride and, like I said, they have knocked this out of the park. I just would personally spend my money elsewhere, and that’s just a personal opinion. Nothing at all against it if you go that direction.

For the Sequoia, I remain wanting more from it. It is the only real miss amongst this list IMO. There’s just nothing about it that stands out for me to choose it over the others. I used to say reliability, but even with that, Toyota has been have a moment with some concerns over reliability in the past few years. Once they rebuild the trust there, I’ll change my mind.

What do you think?