BUYING GUIDE to New Full-Size SUVs

Overview

With the drop in gas prices full-size SUVs have regained the popularity they enjoyed for much of the decade. However, don't expect to see this class to expand any further, because fuel prices will not stay down forever. If minivans aren't your cup of tea, the full-size SUV is still a great choice for larger families. The full-size SUV class also provides towing capabilities for large loads and often ample ground clearance if you go off-road--two attributes you would have a hard time finding in any other vehicle segment.

For 2009, many of the manufacturers have decided to redesign their SUV flagships to compete with the changing market. In addition, a few companies that never had full-size SUVs are releasing them. For shoppers, this means better products and selection than ever before.

Price Range: $29,175-$56,215

Models

New for 2009, the Chrysler Aspen offers much of what the other SUVs in this class do, including: two or all-wheel-drive, three seat rows to accommodate 8 people, and a slew of safety features. Starting at $30,745 and coming with a 235 HP 4.7L V-8 engine, the Chrysler Aspen is an affordable and well equipped full-size SUV.

The Chevrolet Suburban 1500 and 2500 get redesigned for this year. The 1500 gets a new stiffer frame and better suspension. A 320hp 5.3L V-8 is standard on the 1500 with the option of a more powerful 310hp 5.3L V-8. The 2500 comes standard with a 352hp 6.0L V-8. In the same family, the Chevrolet Tahoe is redesigned as well. Its engines are equipped with Chevrolet's "Active Fuel Management" that allows the engine to shut down cylinders when not needed. This allows the Tahoe to provide gas mileage down from last year and makes it an even more appealing option vs. the competition. Odds are, the Tahoe will be able to maintain its status as the best selling full-size SUV since 2001. The GMC Yukon continues the trend of change in 2007. Most noticeably changed are the suspension and handling of this full-sized SUV. The Yukon's stance has been widened and lengthened, giving it a lower center of gravity. Its now equipped with electronically controlled shocks that adapt to speed and road conditions. Also, the new fully boxed frame allows for better rigidity that translates into better performance around corners. The Yukon comes with three engine options: 295hp 4.8L V-8, 320hp 5.3L V-8, and 380hp 6.2L V-8. The GMC Yukon XL 1500 and 2500 are slightly larger than the regular Yukon but also receive many of the same improvements this year. NewCarTestDrive says, "you can't find an SUV that works better as a tow vehicle. It has all the right stuff. The ride is better than ever, handling is even steady and light."

The Ford Expedition offers big improvements in comfort, safety and control, yet costs significantly less than the 2006 model it replaces. Starting at $29,175 it is over $3,000 less than last year and gives the buyers more for their money. Cars Everything.com says, the Ford Expedition "defines 'utility' in SUV. It can haul, tow, and drive through just about anything with hardly a whimper."

The Nissan Armada remains largely unchanged this year. An optional 5.6L V8 engine that can run E85/flex-fuel is one small change. In addition it gets a small horsepower bump from 305hp to 317hp. It has remained in its original design since 2004 when it was released. Toyota's most expensive SUV, the Land Cruiser, returns with standard side impact airbags to improve the safety of its passengers. Its 4.7-liter V-8 produces 275hp and puts the power to the ground using a permanent four-wheel-drive system. The Toyota Sequoia is larger than the Land Cruiser, but surprisingly less costly starting at $32,820. In 2007, it receives improved standard safety features such as antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, front-seat side-impact airbags, and side curtain airbags. All eight seating positions also have three-point seat belts.

Full-Size SUV Safety Guide

Larger SUVs incorporate many advanced safety features. For instance, traction control, which works by applying braking pressure to the appropriate wheels during acceleration, thereby insuring maximum tire contact with the road, is available as standard equipment on many full-size SUVs, as is an antilock braking system. Electronic stability control comes standard on a few models in this segment; it works by sensing a car's side-to-side motion and applying braking pressure to the appropriate wheels to keep the tires in contact with the road. Some full-size SUVs also come with advanced airbag systems, such as side airbags, which protect occupants during side impact collisions, and head airbags, which help reduce head and neck injuries during a collision or rollover, although these features may be available only as extra-cost options. Back-up sensing systems are another useful feature to shop for in large sport utilities.