Top 10 Full-Size SUVs 2019 — Best Overall + Best Value

1. 2019 Ford Expedition

The 2019 Ford Expedition ranks first for its unmatched blend of capability and efficiency. Its twin-turbo 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 375 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, routed through a 10-speed automatic, enabling a class-leading 9,300-pound tow rating. The aluminum body keeps weight down, contributing to a best-in-class EPA rating of 17/24 mpg for 2WD models. This SUV does the full-size job better than anything else that year.

This is the full-size SUV for the family that needs to do everything, from towing a large trailer to hauling eight passengers in comfort. It trades the low-end rumble of a V8 for the turbocharged torque of its EcoBoost engine, which some traditionalists may miss. Compared to the Chevrolet Tahoe below, it offers a more modern interior and better fuel economy, but it demands a higher purchase price and more attention to turbo and cooling system maintenance.

2. 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe LS

The 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe LS ranks second as the clear Best Value pick for its unbeatable combination of low price, proven durability, and strong resale value. With a base MSRP of $48,000, it offers a reliable 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and an 8,600-pound tow rating. Its widespread availability and deep dealer network make it inexpensive to maintain and service anywhere.

This SUV is for the buyer who wants a genuine, full-size V8 hauler without the luxury price tag. It trades away the Expedition's cavernous third row and advanced turbocharged powertrain for a simpler, proven design. Compared to the Ford above, the Tahoe's interior feels older and its 6-speed automatic is less refined, but its lower purchase price and exceptional long-term ownership costs make it the smart money choice for many families.

3. 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT

The 2019 GMC Yukon XL SLT ranks third for providing the most interior volume in the GM lineup, with an enormous cargo area and a genuinely adult-sized third row. Its standard 5.3-liter V8 makes 355 horsepower, but the available 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and a 10-speed automatic is the standout choice. Properly equipped, it can tow up to 8,300 pounds, and the upscale SLT interior feels richer than the Tahoe's.

This SUV is for those who prioritize maximum space and a more premium feel than the Tahoe offers, without stepping up to the Escalade's price. It trades away the Yukon XL's immense length and bulk, which can make parking and maneuvering in tight spaces difficult. Compared to the Tahoe below, it costs more but provides significantly more third-row legroom and cargo space, making it the better pick for those who regularly carry seven or more passengers and their gear.

4. 2019 Lincoln Navigator Reserve

The 2019 Lincoln Navigator Reserve ranks fourth as the luxury benchmark of the year, offering a stunning cabin and serious performance. Its 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 generates a stout 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful engine in this class. The interior, with available 30-way Perfect Position seats and open-pore wood, set a new standard for full-size SUV luxury.

This SUV is for luxury shoppers who want a first-class cabin without sacrificing the utility of a full-size SUV. It trades away the simplicity of the GM trucks for a more complex twin-turbo powertrain and first-year tech glitches. Compared to the Cadillac Escalade below, the Navigator offers a far more modern and opulent interior at a slightly lower starting price, making it the better luxury value despite its $73,205 base MSRP.

5. 2019 Cadillac Escalade Luxury

The 2019 Cadillac Escalade Luxury takes the fifth spot for its iconic presence and strong V8 performance. Its 6.2-liter V8 produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, propelling it to 60 mph in about 6.6 seconds while towing up to 8,300 pounds. The ride is quiet and comfortable, and its bold styling gives it unmatched street presence. However, its interior feels dated compared to the newly redesigned Navigator, with older tech and materials.

This SUV is for buyers who prioritize badge prestige and a torquey V8 over the latest in cabin design. It trades away the Navigator's modern, luxurious interior for a more traditional, but still plush, GM cabin. Compared to the Lincoln above, the Escalade has a higher starting price of $76,490, yet offers less interior refinement and technology, making it a purchase driven more by image than by objective value.

6. 2019 Chevrolet Suburban Premier

The 2019 Chevrolet Suburban Premier ranks sixth as the default choice for families needing sheer interior volume and proven durability. Its 5.3-liter V8 provides 355 horsepower and a tow rating of up to 8,300 pounds. The key advantage is its massive cargo area, which remains genuinely usable even with all three rows of seats in place. The Premier trim adds leather upholstery, a Bose audio system, and various driver-assistance features, enhancing its comfort and appeal.

This SUV is for large families or fleet operators who prioritize maximum space and reliability above all else. It trades away the maneuverability of shorter SUVs for its very long body, which can be cumbersome in tight urban environments. Compared to the Tahoe below, the Suburban offers significantly more cargo space behind the third row, but its aging 6-speed transmission and interior tech are less modern than what you'd find in the Ford Expedition.

7. 2019 GMC Yukon Denali

The 2019 GMC Yukon Denali secures the seventh position as a value-luxury play, offering Escalade-level hardware in a more restrained package. It comes standard with the powerful 6.2-liter V8, producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic. The Denali's plush interior is nearly as nice as the Escalade's but at a lower price point. It can tow up to 8,500 pounds, making it a highly capable and comfortable choice.

This SUV is for buyers who want the performance and luxury of a Cadillac Escalade without the badge premium. It trades away the Escalade's iconic styling for a more understated, yet still upscale, GMC design. Compared to the Suburban above, the Yukon Denali offers a more powerful standard engine and a more luxurious cabin, but it comes with a higher price tag and a thirstier 6.2-liter V8 that returns an EPA-estimated 14/22 mpg.

8. 2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport

The 2019 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport ranks eighth for its legendary reliability, despite its dated design. Its 5.7-liter V8 is robust, producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, and can tow up to 7,400 pounds. The platform is old, with a 6-speed automatic and an interior that lags behind the competition in technology and materials. However, its bulletproof construction and Toyota's reputation for durability make it a vehicle that can easily surpass 250,000 miles.

This SUV is for buyers who value long-term dependability and low ownership costs over modern features and fuel economy. It trades away the efficiency and tech of the newer Ford Expedition for a simpler, more proven design. Compared to the Yukon Denali above, the Sequoia is less powerful, less luxurious, and drinks more fuel, but its exceptional resale value and unmatched reliability make it a smart choice for those planning to keep a vehicle for a very long time.

9. 2019 Nissan Armada SL

The 2019 Nissan Armada SL takes the ninth spot for offering a powerful V8 and a wealth of standard features at a competitive price. Its 5.6-liter V8 generates a healthy 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to tow up to 8,500 pounds. The cabin is comfortable and well-equipped in SL trim, feeling more upscale than its price suggests. It is essentially a rebadged global Nissan Patrol, giving it a robust body-on-frame construction.

This SUV is for value-conscious shoppers who want a strong V8 and lots of luxury content without paying a premium. It trades away the third-row space and cargo capacity of its American rivals for a more comfortable and quiet highway ride. Compared to the Toyota Sequoia above, the Armada offers more power and a nicer interior, but it depreciates faster and has a less proven long-term reliability record.

10. 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser

The 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser rounds out the list as the rugged outlier, offering unmatched off-road capability and legendary durability. Its single, fully-loaded trim includes a 5.7-liter V8 with 381 horsepower, an 8-speed automatic, and full-time four-wheel drive with a locking center differential and Multi-Terrain Select. It can tow up to 8,100 pounds and is virtually indestructible, holding its value remarkably well. However, its interior is dated for its lofty $84,765 starting price.

This SUV is for the buyer who wants go-anywhere capability and the ultimate in long-term reliability, with price being no object. It trades away modern cabin tech and fuel efficiency for a proven, over-engineered drivetrain that is built to last for decades. Compared to the Nissan Armada above, the Land Cruiser is far more capable off-road and holds its value better, but it costs significantly more and offers less interior space and technology for the money.

How we ranked these

We ranked the 2019 full-size SUVs by weighting six factors as a real family or fleet buyer would: towing and capability (20%), third-row and cargo space (20%), reliability and ownership cost (20%), powertrain (15%), interior and tech (15%), and used value today (10%). We used period reviews from Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, U.S. News, and Kelley Blue Book, plus J.D.

Power and Consumer Reports reliability data, EPA fuel economy, and Wikipedia for model histories. MSRPs are period-2019 dollars; used values reflect current market estimates.

We deliberately ignored subjective brand loyalty, nostalgia, and raw horsepower as a headline metric. We also excluded dealer incentives, regional pricing variations, and any aftermarket modifications. We focused on what actually matters for ownership: real-world capability, durability, cost to keep, and resale. We did not penalize dated interiors or poor fuel economy as heavily as a luxury buyer might, because for most full-size SUV shoppers, space, towing, and reliability outweigh those factors.

What to look for

When choosing between these, match the tow rating to your actual trailer, not the max number—packages and drivetrain change it. Sit in the third row yourself: the Expedition, Suburban, and Yukon XL fit adults; the Tahoe and Sequoia are tighter. Check service history on turbo engines (Expedition, Navigator) for cooling and turbo upkeep. Inspect 4WD transfer cases and air suspension on Navigator and Land Cruiser for leaks.

Verify resale: GM trucks and Toyotas hold value best; the Armada and Escalade depreciate harder. Budget for fuel—V8s return mid-teens combined, EcoBoost Fords do better.

The biggest mistake buyers make is chasing the highest horsepower or the lowest price without considering total ownership. The 355-hp Tahoe tows and hauls just as competently as the 420-hp big-V8 rigs in everyday use—the extra output mostly buys character and bragging rights, not real-world capability.

Also, don't ignore the long-wheelbase versions if you need cargo behind the third row; the short SUVs like the Tahoe and Armada have surprisingly little space with all seats up.

Related questions

What is the towing capacity of the 2019 Ford Expedition?

The 2019 Ford Expedition can tow up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped, which was the best in its class that year. This figure requires the right towing package and drivetrain configuration. The long-wheelbase Expedition Max has the same rating. This capability made it the top choice for buyers needing to pull trailers, boats, or campers.

How does the 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe compare to the Suburban?

The Tahoe and Suburban share the same platform, engine, and most features, but the Suburban is about 20 inches longer, providing significantly more cargo space behind the third row. The Tahoe is easier to park and maneuver, while the Suburban is the better choice for families needing maximum interior volume. Both offer the same 5.3-liter V8 and similar towing ratings.

Is the 2019 Lincoln Navigator worth the premium over the Ford Expedition?

The Navigator costs significantly more than the Expedition but offers a far more luxurious interior with 30-way power seats, premium materials, and a quieter ride. It also has a more powerful 450-hp version of the same EcoBoost engine. If you value luxury and are willing to pay for it, the Navigator is worth it. Otherwise, the Expedition provides most of the capability at a lower price.

What are the common problems with the 2019 Ford Expedition?

Common issues reported by owners include occasional turbocharger problems, cooling system leaks, and some electronic glitches with the infotainment system. The 10-speed automatic transmission has had some complaints about harsh shifting. However, overall reliability has been solid for a first-year redesign, and many examples have proven durable with proper maintenance.

Which 2019 full-size SUV has the best fuel economy?

The 2019 Ford Expedition with the EcoBoost V6 achieves the best fuel economy in the class, rated at 17 mpg city and 24 mpg highway with rear-wheel drive. The Lincoln Navigator is similar. The V8-powered GM trucks and Toyotas are thirstier, with the Toyota Sequoia being the worst at 13 mpg city and 17 mpg highway.

How reliable is the 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser?

The 2019 Toyota Land Cruiser is exceptionally reliable, with a reputation for lasting well over 250,000 miles with regular maintenance. Its 5.7-liter V8 is proven and durable. However, it uses a dated platform and gets poor fuel economy. Resale value remains very strong, making it a smart long-term investment despite the high initial cost.

What is the best used full-size SUV under $30,000?

A used 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe or GMC Yukon in good condition can often be found under $30,000, offering proven V8 reliability and strong resale. The Ford Expedition is also a good option, but check for maintenance history on the turbo engine. The Toyota Sequoia is reliable but holds its value so well that it may be harder to find under $30,000.

FAQ

Which 2019 full-size SUV was the best overall?

The redesigned Ford Expedition was the best overall. It combined class-leading towing up to 9,300 pounds, the roomiest third row and cargo hold, a strong 375-hp EcoBoost V6, and a modern 10-speed automatic at a reasonable base price of $52,810. It simply did the full-size SUV job better than anything else that year.

What was the best-value 2019 full-size SUV?

The Chevrolet Tahoe LS at a base $48,000 was the best value. It offered a proven 5.3-liter V8, honest capability, the deepest service network, and the strongest resale in the segment. That value carries into the used market today, making it a smart buy for those wanting a durable V8 SUV without luxury pricing.

Which 2019 full-size SUV could tow the most?

The Ford Expedition had the highest towing capacity, rated up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped. This was ahead of the GM trucks, which were around 8,300 to 8,600 pounds, and the Toyotas, which were around 7,400 to 8,100 pounds. The Expedition's EcoBoost V6 provided strong torque for towing.

Were the Toyota Sequoia and Land Cruiser reliable?

Yes, both earned elite Toyota reliability and resale. They used proven 5.7-liter V8 engines and durable platforms. However, both were dated in design and thirsty, with fuel economy in the mid-teens. The Land Cruiser was also very expensive, but its long-term durability and off-road capability were unmatched.

Was the Lincoln Navigator worth the price over the Escalade in 2019?

For most buyers, yes. The redesigned Navigator brought a 450-hp EcoBoost engine and a far more modern, luxurious cabin, winning awards the older-platform Escalade could not match. The Escalade had a strong V8 and iconic presence, but its interior was dated. The Navigator offered better technology, space, and overall refinement.

Do these SUVs make good used buys now?

Yes, with care. The Tahoe, Suburban, Yukon, and Toyotas hold value and reliability best. The Expedition is excellent if maintained, especially the turbo engine. The Armada and Escalade depreciate more, offering potential bargains but with higher long-term costs. Always check service history and condition before buying.

What is the difference between the Ford Expedition and Expedition Max?

The Expedition Max is the long-wheelbase version, about 15 inches longer than the standard Expedition. This extra length provides significantly more cargo space behind the third row, making it better for large families or those who haul gear. Both have the same engine and towing capacity, but the Max is harder to park and maneuver.

How much does a 2019 full-size SUV cost used today?

Used prices vary by model and condition. A 2019 Ford Expedition typically ranges from the mid-$20,000s to low $30,000s. Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon are similar. Toyota Sequoia and Land Cruiser hold value higher, often above $40,000. The Nissan Armada and Cadillac Escalade can be found cheaper due to higher depreciation.

Which 2019 full-size SUV has the most cargo space?

The Ford Expedition Max and GMC Yukon XL offer the most cargo space, with over 120 cubic feet behind the first row and around 50 cubic feet behind the third row. The standard Expedition and Suburban are also spacious. The Tahoe and Armada have the least cargo space behind the third row, around 15-20 cubic feet.

Sources

• https://www.caranddriver.com/ford/expedition/2019
• https://www.motortrend.com/cars/ford/expedition/2019/
• https://www.edmunds.com/ford/expedition/2019/review/
• https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/ford/expedition/2019
• https://www.kbb.com/ford/expedition/2019/
• https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2019/ford/expedition
• https://www.consumerreports.org/cars/ford/expedition/2019/overview/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ford_Expedition
• https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/PowerSearch.do?action=noargs&year=2019&make=Ford&model=Expedition
• https://www.tfltruck.com/2018/10/2019-ford-expedition-fx4-off-road-review/

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