When it comes to full-sized SUVs, the Ford Expedition and Chevy Tahoe dominate the market, as both models easily outsell their Japanese competitors. When you need a vehicle with a large passenger compartment, massive cargo volume, power, and a high towing capacity, these two vehicles are for you. But which one is better, the Expedition or the Tahoe? Let’s take a look and compare the two to see if we can find out.
Appearance
The Expedition’s front and rear styling was freshened up in 2022, including big LED headlights and a broad grill that come in various finishes depending on the trim level. The Tahoe’s last exterior update was in 2021, but it retains a very boxy look.
Price Comparison
The Tahoe is available in 6 different trim levels and ranges in price from a starting MSRP of $52,800 to the top trim level High Country, which starts at $ 79,195.
For 2023, the Expedition is also available in 6 different trim versions, with the MSRP starting at $53,875 for the XL STX, $57,940for the XLT, $67,115 for the Limited, $70,705 for the Timberline, $77,120 for the King Ranch, with the Platinum coming in at $79,620.
Features
While the Expedition’s exterior was redesigned last year, the most obvious change is inside. There’s a 12 inch infotainment touchscreen that can be upgraded to 15.5 inches, compared to Tahoe’s 8 inch or optional 12 inch units. On the Platinum model, Ford provides BlueCruise. This is a driver assistance feature that allows for hand-free driving on certain mapped highways. General Motors has a similar system called Super Cruise, but that system isn’t available on any of the trim levels of the Tahoe.
Engine and Towing Capacity
Here’s a comparison of the basic powertrain specifications:
| Category | Ford Expedition | Chevy Tahoe |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5 Turbocharged 6 cylinder | 5.3 liter V8 |
| Horsepower | 400 | 355 |
| Torque | 480 ft lbs | 383 ft lbs |
| Towing Capacity | 9,300 pounds | 8,400 pounds |
Speaking of towing, Ford offers a very helpful Pro Trailer Backup Assist system. Using a knob on the dash, you simply tell the vehicle where you want your trailer to go and the Expedition will steer for you to get it there. Tahoe doesn’t offer anything quite like that.
Interior and Exterior Dimensions
Both the Expedition and the Tahoe have an overall length of 210 inches. The Tahoe is just over an inch wider, while the Expedition is taller by an inch. The Tahoe has a bit more front and rear seat legroom, and the Expedition has more room for adults with more hip room across the board and good shoulder clearance in the third row.
Cargo Capacity
Moving on to cargo capacity, the Chevy Tahoe has a bit more cargo space than the Ford. The Tahoe has 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, with 72.6 cubic feet with both rear seats folded down.
The Ford Expedition offers up to 20.9 cubic feet behind the third row and comes up to 63.6 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
For both vehicles, if you choose not to have a third row of seats, the cargo space is increased.
Reliability and Safety
Reliability and safety are very important, and both the Chevy Tahoe and the Ford Expedition do well in these categories. Based on frequency and cost of repairs, the Expedition has an edge, especially if you’re going to drive it for many years.
In regard to safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has rated both vehicles, and they are both considered very safe. The Ford Expedition earned a 5 star rating, which it the highest score, while the Chevy Tahoe was close behind with a rating of 4 stars.
Final Words
The Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition are both well-built and reliable vehicles. They are big and comfortable when you need to carry around a crowd, and both have excellent handling, handsome styling, and solid performance. The Ford has the advantage in technology, towing capacity, and styling, while the Tahoe offers slightly more interior cargo space.
Where to Shop
If you’re in the market for a full-sized SUV, you can check in with the experts at Yankee Ford. We are the premier Ford dealership in South Portland, Maine, offering a diverse inventory of both new and used vehicles to choose from. Our highly trained sales team is ready to help you select your next vehicle, and our certified factory-trained service technicians are equipped to handle all of your service needs. If you have any automotive needs in the Portland area, we hope you will stop by and let us serve you. For more information, visit our website or contact us. We hope to see you soon!
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Car Comparison