The Best Full-Size SUVs of 2023
Full-size SUVs may not be as popular in Canada as they are in the U.S., but with plenty of interior space and seating for up to nine, there’s no denying their appeal among large families. Which one is the best money can buy?
The Car Guide has gathered its team of experts to identify the top full-size SUVs on the market in 2023. Check them out right here!
1. Chevrolet Suburban/Tahoe/GMC Yukon
GM’s trio of full-size SUVs is the current benchmark. Whether you opt for a Suburban, Tahoe or Yukon, you’re sure to make an excellent choice. There are not many changes for 2023, mind you. Most notably, Super Cruise is now available, enabling hands-free driving on compatible highways. The Suburban and Tahoe offer new grille designs and body colour selection, as well.
These three SUVs are extremely spacious and practical, not to mention the best-handling models in the segment. The long-wheelbase variants, which can sit 8 or 9 people, boast over 4,000 litres of total cargo room—enough for half a hockey team’s gear.
Under the hood, the 5.3- and 6.2-litre gasoline V8 engines are proven performers. On the other hand, their high fuel consumption increases ownership costs, especially when driving a lot. A third option is the 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbo-diesel engine, which delivers as much torque as the 6.2-litre V8 yet proves remarkably frugal. Too bad the cost of diesel at the pump offsets the fuel savings.
2. Toyota Sequoia
The third-generation Sequoia has arrived—15 years after the debut of its predecessor. It looks fresh and offers a modern interior with all the latest Toyota technologies.
Now exclusively a hybrid SUV, the Sequoia combines a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 with an electric motor for a total of 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft. of torque. Combined fuel consumption is a modest 11.7 L/100 km as rated by NRC, which is close to GM’s turbo-diesel but costs less at the pump since it runs on premium gas.
With adventure-ready models (TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro) and more luxurious alternatives (Capstone), Toyota is able to cater to a wide range of customers.
3. Ford Expedition
Sitting in third place among full-size SUVs is the Ford Expedition. For 2023, a King Ranch model joins the lineup. With last year’s adventurous Timberline model on top of that, customers have more selection than ever.
Under the hood is a 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 that generates 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft. of torque in base trim. King Ranch and Platinum models are a bit more potent, but the top dogs are the Expedition Timberline and Stealth Performance models with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft. of torque.
The Expedition stands out with class-leading towing capacity of up to 9,200 pounds. It continues to be available in standard and long-wheelbase configurations, the latter known as Expedition MAX.