1997 Full-Size SUV Comparison Test: Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and Ford Expedition

Key Takeaways

• The Ford Expedition XLT takes the top spot in this comparison test.
• The Chevrolet Tahoe LS comes in second, offering a more car-like driving experience.
• The Chevrolet Suburban K1500LS finishes third, with a large interior but numb steering and a bouncy ride.
• All three vehicles have their strengths and weaknesses, but the Expedition’s balance of driving characteristics, hauling abilities, and styling make it the winner.
• The test highlights the differences between these full-size SUVs, with the Suburban prioritizing cargo space, the Tahoe focusing on a more car-like experience, and the Expedition offering a balance of both.

What Makes the Ford Expedition Stand Out?

In the past, carmakers often gave trucks the short end of the stick when it came to technology and refinement. However, with the demand for trucks increasing, manufacturers have started taking them more seriously. The new 1997 F-150 pickup sets benchmarks for car-like handling, ride, and refinement, and the Expedition promises to do the same.

One editor noted that the Expedition is the most car-like of the three vehicles, with good suspension control, minimal body roll, accurate steering, and a good ride-and-handling trade-off. Another driver commented that it drives like a car after getting out of the Suburban, although the ride does not seem as smooth and quiet as the Tahoe’s.

How Does the Chevrolet Tahoe Compare?

The Chevrolet Tahoe is more than just a shortened Suburban. It’s a vehicle that aims to reduce some of the Suburban’s truck-like characteristics to appeal to those considering smaller sport-utes and minivans. The Tahoe has a stiffer frame with new bushings and spring rates, which provides a better ride.

However, the Tahoe’s steering is lifeless, and it doesn’t require as much corrective action as the Suburban. The turning circle is 4.9 feet narrower, which is an immediately apparent fact. The Tahoe’s engine feels like a 5.7-liter Suburban’s that has just been freed from hauling about 450 pounds, making it the quickest truck of the three.

What Are the Strengths and Weaknesses of the Chevrolet Suburban?

The Suburban’s bulk is its middle name, and it’s constantly reminded of it, especially by the comments of test drivers in the logbooks. The Suburban’s 47.8-foot turning circle is almost five feet bigger than the Tahoe’s and more than seven feet bigger than the Expedition’s.

The Suburban’s standard 5.7-liter 250-horsepower V-8 engine is responsive, and its 0-to-60-mph acceleration time of 10.4 seconds is within the range set by the two other trucks. However, numbness is the primary driving characteristic of the Suburban, with a mushy brake pedal and lifeless steering.

How Do the Three Vehicles Compare in Terms of Cargo Space and Towing Capacity?

The Suburban can inhale 150 cubic feet of cargo with the second seat folded forward and the third seat removed, which is 32 cubic feet more than the two other trucks. The Tahoe’s cargo capacity is smaller, but it can still haul the same payload as the Suburban.

The Expedition can tow 7400 pounds, the most of these trucks, although an 8000-pound rating is optional. The Suburban can tow up to 10,000 pounds, while the Tahoe can be equipped to haul 7000 pounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which vehicle has the best fuel economy?

A: The Chevrolet Tahoe has the best fuel economy, with an observed 16 mpg and an EPA rating of 13/17 mpg. The Ford Expedition has an observed 15 mpg and an EPA rating of 14/18 mpg, while the Chevrolet Suburban has an observed 15 mpg and an EPA rating of 13/17 mpg.

Q: Which vehicle has the most cargo space?

A: The Chevrolet Suburban has the most cargo space, with 150 cubic feet of cargo space with the second seat folded forward and the third seat removed. The Ford Expedition has 118 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Chevrolet Tahoe has 118 cubic feet of cargo space.

Q: Which vehicle has the best towing capacity?

A: The Chevrolet Suburban has the best towing capacity, with a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. The Ford Expedition can tow up to 8000 pounds, while the Chevrolet Tahoe can be equipped to haul 7000 pounds.