Which 2018 Full-Size SUV Won the Towing and Interior Space Challenge?

The 2018 Ford Expedition emerged as the definitive winner in a rigorous comparison of four top full-size, three-row SUVs, outperforming rivals from Chevrolet, Nissan, and Toyota in key areas like interior spaciousness, user-friendly technology, and overall value after extensive testing in Arizona.

For families needing maximum passenger and cargo room, the three-row SUV segment is the go-to choice. These vehicles are designed to haul people and gear with ease, but they are not all created equal. To determine which model truly stands out, we conducted a head-to-head evaluation—the 2018 Full-Size SUV Challenge—near Phoenix, Arizona. The competitors included the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe, Ford Expedition, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia. After days of driving through varied terrain, including the Tonto National Forest, and meticulously scoring each vehicle, a clear champion was crowned based on a comprehensive set of criteria.

What Were the Key Factors in the Ford Expedition's Victory?

The Ford Expedition's win was not based on a single feature but on a combination of strengths that addressed the core needs of SUV buyers.

• Spacious Interior: The Expedition was the largest vehicle in the challenge. This size translated directly into best-in-class legroom for both the second and third rows, a critical factor for family comfort on long trips. Furthermore, it offered an enormous amount of rear cargo space.
• Innovative Convenience: A standout feature was its push-button fold-flat third-row seats. This system allows for easy configuration of the cargo area with minimal effort, a significant advantage over more manual systems in competitors.
• Modern Design: Our judges noted the Expedition's more contemporary and stylish exterior and interior design compared to some of its rivals, which helped it feel more up-to-date.

Based on our assessment experience, the Expedition successfully blended brute-force capability with intelligent, family-friendly packaging.

How Did the SUVs Compare on Towing Capability?

Towing is a fundamental requirement for many full-size SUV owners. While all four vehicles are capable tow vehicles, their performances differed. The following table summarizes the key powertrain and towing specifications for quick comparison.

During our real-world towing evaluation, the Expedition's 3.5L EcoBoost engine provided a strong blend of power and efficiency. The integrated trailer brake controller and multiple camera systems available in its tow package offered superior confidence and control when hauling heavy loads.

What Are the Practical Advantages of a Three-Row SUV?

The primary advantage of a three-row SUV like these models is unparalleled versatility. They are designed to solve specific user problems:

• Large Family Transport: They can comfortably seat seven or eight passengers, making them ideal for carpools, family vacations, and daily errands with multiple children.
• Cargo Hauling: With all seats upright, cargo space behind the third row is sufficient for groceries or sports gear. With the third and second rows folded down, these vehicles can swallow large items like furniture or luggage for a long trip.
• All-Weather Capability: Most are available with four-wheel drive (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), providing enhanced traction and safety in rain, snow, or on rough roads.

It's important to note that this capability often comes with a trade-off in fuel economy and overall maneuverability compared to smaller SUVs or minivans.

What Should Buyers Consider When Choosing a Full-Size SUV?

When deciding between models like the Tahoe, Expedition, Armada, and Sequoia, buyers should prioritize their specific needs. Key considerations include:

• Primary Use: Is towing a frequent activity, or is passenger comfort the top priority?
• Technology Needs: Consider the infotainment system interface, driver assistance features, and connectivity options.
• Budget: Factor in not only the purchase price but also long-term costs like fuel, insurance, and maintenance. Based on our assessment experience, researching ownership costs for each model is a highly recommended step.

For shoppers seeking a used full-size SUV from this era, the 2018 Ford Expedition presents a compelling package due to its winning combination of class-leading space, innovative features, and strong towing prowess. While the Chevrolet Tahoe offers a traditional V8 feel and the Nissan Armada provides robust power, the Expedition's well-rounded performance made it the top choice in this competitive field. Your final decision should be guided by a thorough test drive of each vehicle to assess which one best fits your family's lifestyle.