Redesigned for 2023, the second generation of the Sequoia has been around for a whopping 15 years. Honestly, that shows around the cabin, which features a dated design. Unlike other Toyota vehicles, the cabin materials are poor, the gas mileage isn't great, and it won't tow as much as competitors. It does have plenty of space, but we are asking more from the Sequoia to be a decent family hauler.
The third generation of the Lexus LX has been around since 2007, but it did have a major facelift in 2015. Therefore, it doesn't seem as dated as one might think. A frustrating infotainment system, however, plagues this Lexus. And while it does hold its own when it comes to off-roading, competitors are more agile and offer smoother handling on paved surfaces. For a full-size SUV, it does fall to the bottom of the class for cargo capacity.
The Nissan Armada had a slight refresh in 2021. Thankfully, the center stack is more modern-looking than last year's model. Most importantly, the faux plastic wood is gone, but it has been replaced by dark patterned plastic on the dash and center armrest that just doesn't feel upscale for this price point. The Armada also has poor gas mileage ratings (though nothing is stellar in this class), and it has below-average cargo capacity for a full-size SUV. There are, however, powerful engine options to choose from.
There are pros to the 2023 Infiniti QX80, it just falls behind other competitors. It is one of the more affordable options for a luxury full-size SUV, and it has some of the best cargo capacity. The interior, however, is not as luxurious as other full-size luxury SUVs. Additionally, if you're paying top dollar, you expect to have the latest and greatest in tech offerings. The QX80 now has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto capabilities last year!
The Land Rover Range Rover recently added a plug-in hybrid option. With an EV-only range of 48 miles, you can do a short commute or some quick errands around town without ever using a drop of gas. The plush interior is matched with a smooth and capable ride experience. But don't let the smoothness on paved roads fool you. The Range Rover is also at home off-road and feels just as sure-footed there. One of the very few downsides is that some competitors best it when it comes to cargo space.
When we say luxury, we really mean it when it comes to the Mercedes-Benz G-Class. The starting MSRP is just under a sky-high $139,900. That eye-watering price does land buyers a truly high-end cabin. It's easily the best in the class. Surprisingly, for being so opulent inside, the G-Class is a great off-roader. The downsides are, obviously, the price. It puts it out of reach of nearly everyone. And if you care about fuel economy, this is a real gas guzzler.
The Ford Expedition has robust engines and a spacious cabin, the interior of which is straightforward and classy. In the back, there's a wealth of cargo space. The Expedition also has above-average reliability ratings. Like the Yukon and the Tahoe/Suburban, buyers can choose between a "Regular" and a "Max" option depending upon how much space they prefer. The Expedition Max is a foot longer than the regular option. It also has a higher towing capacity, besting the Yukon by around 800 pounds. On the downside, it has an overly stiff suspension and some unattractive plastic around the cabin.
The Chevrolet Suburban was redesigned completely for 2021 (along with its cousins the Tahoe and the GMC Yukon) and returns in 2023 with that similar design. The Chevy Tahoe and Suburban share the same underpinnings with the only difference being a longer wheelbase. And if you're in the market for a full-size SUV, why not go for the largest on the market?! It's a bit more expensive than the Tahoe, but it also has a simply cavernous interior with seating for eight. There's a powerful V8 engine along with a comfortable ride. A turbodiesel engine is now available. Plus, the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban has good reliability ratings as well. The downside is that it's difficult to navigate tight city spaces.
The 2023 Yukon looks brand new this year (like its GM cousins). The Yukon comes in two versions—the regular Yukon (mechanically similar to the Chevy Tahoe) and the Yukon XL (GMC's variant of the Chevy Suburban). Obviously, if you prize cargo space, then opt for the XL. The regular Yukon's 3-row is a little cramped in comparison. Otherwise, GMC offers an upscale cabin and a well-performing suspension that translates to a smooth ride. The value proposition is somewhat lost at the higher more expensive trims, though.
The 2023 Lincoln Navigator is near the top of our rankings because of its steady and confident ride. It also features plenty of passenger and cargo space. Speaking of the interior, it is handsome without being too overly complex. There is also a huge array of standard features to be found. Even better, the Navigator has class-leading towing capacity. The cherry on top of the whole package is an affordable price point, making it a great deal for family buyers.
The Chevy Tahoe returns. The Tahoe squeaks ahead of its GMC cousin simply because of the lower price points. Sure the cabin is a little less luxurious, but not by much. You're essentially getting the same Yukon at a better value. Among its high points, the Tahoe has a straightforward infotainment system, a powerful V8 engine, and a comfortably quiet ride. Chevy has two different nameplates for each wheelbase length, unlike GMC. Otherwise, the Tahoe and the Suburban are mechanical twins.
Like its Chevrolet Tahoe relative, the Escalade comes in a standard length and a longer ESV version (akin to the Chevy Suburban). This makes it one of the most spacious vehicles on the market, and all that space can be had for a (relatively) less premium price than some rivals. It has powerful engines and a smooth ride to boot. On the downsides, the interior quality is decidedly less premium for this class, and we aren't big fans of the infotainment layout. But it was newly redesigned in 2021.
The BMW X7 is the brand's first true stab at an American-style full-size SUV. It's the largest SUV that BMW makes, and it's a pretty good first at-bat for the German brand. It's got great fuel economy for its large size. Simultaneously, it should come as no surprise that the X7 has an array of strong, powerful engines. It's a common strong point among all of BMW's vehicles. The interior is also a standout since it features a long list of tech and safety features.
The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class is much more affordable than its G-Class sibling. Even though it has a lower price, the interior is no less plush. The upscale cabin materials are top-notch, and the interior is filled with three spacious rows of seating. There's enough room for the whole family. Powerful engines give plenty of pep when drivers press the gas, and the comfortable ride is only enhanced by precision handling.
