The 2021 Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Suburban are known for their spacious, three-row cabins and sporty capabilities. With so much in common, though, it can be tough to choose between these traditional full-size SUVs. Our comparison guide is here to help you take a closer look at each SUV.
Interior Comfort: 2021 Ford Expedition
With three spacious rows of seating, the Expedition is a major attraction for big families. For extra cargo space and hip room, you can also choose the extended-wheelbase Expedition Max model. We’re also big fans of the Expedition’s upscale options, like its soft leather upholstery, heated seats, and second-row captain’s chairs.
The newly redesigned three-row Suburban is bigger than ever, and even offers a little extra cargo space compared to the Expedition. However, the Suburban never feels quite as classy, even when it’s equipped with optional bells and whistles.
Tech Gear: 2021 Ford Expedition
The Ford Expedition comes standard with extra high-tech safety gear, giving it the edge in this category. When you’re driving such a big SUV, it helps to have a little assistance, including a standard blind-spot monitor with cross-traffic alert and lane keeping assist. The automatic emergency braking system can even detect an oncoming accident and hit the brakes to help you avoid it.
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban also comes standard with forward collision mitigation. However, you have to pay extra to enjoy features like blind-spot monitoring and lane-departure warning.
On the other hand, the Suburban does comes standard with a 10-inch infotainment touch screen and Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration. The Expedition offers the same smartphone technology and an 8-inch infotainment touch screen, but you have to upgrade to at least the midrange XLT model to enjoy them.
Max Horsepower: 2021 Chevy Suburban
Although the Expedition comes standard with a stronger engine, it’s the Suburban that offers the most horsepower. Top-trim High Country trim models feature a 6.2-liter V8 engine that makes 420 horses and 313 pound-feet of torque. High Country shoppers can also choose an optional diesel engine, a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that generates 277 horses and 460 pound-feet of torque.
Keep in mind that you have to upgrade to the Suburban’s most expensive model to enjoy this extra power. The Suburban’s base engine is a 5.3-liter V8 engine rated for 355 horses and 383 pound-feet of torque.
Every 2021 Expedition comes standard with the same engine, a 3.5-liter turbocharged V6. Its 375 horses and 470 pound-feet of torque send you into highway traffic with total confidence. The top-trim Platinum model has an upgraded version of this engine that makes 400 horses and 480 pound-feet of torque.
Max Towing: 2021 Ford Expedition
The Suburban might offer a little more horsepower, but the Expedition will tow the biggest trailer. With the proper equipment, rear-wheel-drive models can tow up to 9,300 pounds. Four-wheel-drive Expeditions can manage up to 9,200 pounds. The extended-wheelbase Max models have max tow ratings of 9,000 pounds.
The Suburban’s tow ratings vary quite a bit, depending on which trim model, drivetrain, and engine you select. In its most muscular form, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds.
Final Grades
The newly redesigned 2021 Chevrolet Suburban has a lot to offer, but the 2021 Ford Expedition has it thoroughly beat. The Expedition is the absolute best option for drivers who want more standard power, towing capacity, and passenger comfort.