Which 2018 Full-Size SUV Won the Ultimate Towing and Family Test?

The 2018 Ford Expedition Limited emerged as the clear winner in a comprehensive comparison of non-luxury, full-size SUVs, outperforming the Chevrolet Tahoe, Nissan Armada, and Toyota Sequoia across a wide range of categories from towing capability to third-row comfort. After hundreds of miles of testing, including towing a 3,500-pound trailer, three expert judges awarded points in 13 key areas to determine which vehicle best balances family needs with heavy-duty capability.

How Was the Full-Size SUV Challenge Conducted?

The evaluation was designed to answer a critical question for potential buyers: Which full-size SUV delivers the best combination of people-moving comfort and serious towing prowess? The judges—all seasoned automotive editors—tested standard-length, four-wheel-drive 2018 models equipped with optional tow packages. Testing included real-world fuel economy measurements with and without a trailer, along with assessments of interior comfort, technology, and safety features. Each vehicle was scored on a 1,000-point scale.

Key Testing Metrics:

• Towing Performance: Gas mileage was measured both unladen and with a 3,500-pound camper trailer.
• Interior Comfort: Points were awarded for front-, second-, and third-row comfort and space.
• Daily Usability: Categories included cargo storage, multimedia systems, visibility, and ride quality.
• Value: Judges considered the price of each vehicle as equipped.

#4 Toyota Sequoia TRD Sport: The Budget-Friendly Workhorse

Scoring 604 out of 1,000 points, the Toyota Sequoia is a capable but dated contender whose primary advantage is its lower price point. While it finished last, it remains a viable option for buyers who prioritize value and basic utility over modern features and refinement.

What are the Toyota Sequoia's strengths?

• Spacious Third Row: The Sequoia’s third-row seat was rated second for comfort, noted as being spacious enough for actual adults, even taller ones.
• Excellent Cargo Utility: It featured the lowest load-in height of the group and an underfloor storage area, with rear seats that fold flat to create a large, usable cargo floor.
• Strong Value Proposition: With a tested price of $59,873, it was the most affordable SUV in the test and includes advanced safety features as standard on all trims.

Where does the Toyota Sequoia fall short?

• Outdated Interior and Tech: Judges criticized the cabin's hard plastics, calling it appropriate for a work truck. The multimedia system was deemed a "joke" for its tiny screen, old graphics, and lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• Poor Ride and Handling: The Sequoia suffered from pronounced body roll in corners and an overboosted steering system that provided no feedback.
• Aging Powertrain: The 381-horsepower 5.7-liter V-8 and six-speed transmission felt dated, contributing to the lowest observed fuel economy of 18.8 mpg when not towing.

#3 Chevrolet Tahoe Premier RST: The Powerful but Pricey Choice

The Chevrolet Tahoe scored 691 points, landing in third place due to a punishing price tag and a cramped third row, though its powerful optional engine was a standout feature. With an as-tested price of $78,155, the Tahoe's value was questioned despite several strong attributes.

What did the Chevrolet Tahoe do well?

• Potent Powertrain: The optional 420-horsepower 6.2-liter V-8 engine (part of the RST performance package) received high praise for its strong low-end torque and confident towing feel, making a trailer "feel like it’s not even there."
• Best-in-Test Fuel Economy: Surprisingly, the powerful Tahoe achieved the best observed gas mileage unladen at 22.5 mpg and while towing at 12.1 mpg.
• User-Friendly Technology: The Chevrolet MyLink multimedia system was rated as decent, with easy-to-use buttons and quick response, tying for first place.

What are the Chevrolet Tahoe's drawbacks?

• Unusable Third Row: The third row was judged the worst of the bunch, offering no legroom and a seating position that was unacceptable for adults.
• Questionable Value: At nearly $80,000, judges felt the RST package added desirable features but charged an "insane" premium for them.
• Harsh Ride: The sport-oriented RST package's 22-inch wheels created a jarring ride over rough pavement, and the interior quality was deemed mediocre for the price.

#2 Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve: The Quiet and Confident Contender

Finishing second with 700 points, the Nissan Armada impressed with its quiet cabin, confident driving demeanor, and a price thousands less than its key rivals. However, its undersized third row prevented it from challenging for the top spot.

Why did the Nissan Armada score so highly?

• Excellent Advanced Safety Features: The Armada earned top marks for safety by including a useful 360-degree camera system, a feature the others lacked.
• Strong Value for Money: Loaded with features, the Armada Platinum Reserve cost $67,145, tying for first in the value category by offering a luxury feel for considerably less money.
• Serene Cabin: The Armada tied with the Ford for the quietest cabin, effectively isolating occupants from wind and road noise.

What held the Nissan Armada back?

• Cramped Third Row: The third row was only marginally more usable for adults than the Tahoe's, moving from "barely usable" to "marginally usable."
• Disappointing Towing Fuel Economy: While unladen mileage was reasonable, fuel efficiency plummeted by 50% when towing, achieving just 9.95 mpg—the worst in the test.
• Sluggish Powertrain: The 390-hp 5.6-liter V-8 felt heavy and sluggish, with a transmission reluctant to downshift for passing power, especially when hitched to a trailer.

#1 Ford Expedition Limited: The Redesigned Champion

The 2018 Ford Expedition dominated the challenge with 820 points, winning nine of the 17 judging categories outright. Its complete redesign paid off, delivering a winning formula of space, technology, comfort, and capability.

What makes the Ford Expedition the best full-size SUV?

• Unmatched Interior Space and Comfort: The Expedition boasts the most roomy and comfortable third row of the group, capable of accommodating adult-sized passengers comfortably. It also aced independent child-safety seat installation tests.
• Brilliant Turbocharged Powertrain: The 375-horsepower, turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6 engine provided instant response and plenty of torque, working seamlessly with a smart-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission.
• Superior Technology and Towing Aids: The Sync 3 multimedia system was a judge's favorite, and the Expedition included advanced trailering features like Pro Trailer Backup Assist and an onscreen checklist.

Are there any downsides to the Ford Expedition?

• Significant Fuel Economy Drop When Towing: While efficient when unladen (21.6 mpg), the Expedition's fuel efficiency dropped by 53% when towing, resulting in a 10.2 mpg figure and more frequent fuel stops due to a smaller fuel tank.
• Frustrating Gear Selector: Judges uniformly disliked the rotary dial gear selector, finding it less intuitive than a traditional lever.

Conclusion: Which 2018 Full-Size SUV Should You Choose?

Based on this rigorous test, your choice depends on your priorities:

• For the best overall package: The Ford Expedition is the clear winner, offering the most modern design, superior space, and advanced technology.
• For the best value: The Nissan Armada provides a quiet, confident ride and plenty of features for a lower price, if you can live with a smaller third row.
• For maximum power and unladen fuel economy: The Chevrolet Tahoe (with the 6.2L V-8) is a strong performer, but be prepared for a high price and poor third-row accommodations.
• For a low-cost, basic workhorse: The Toyota Sequoia is capable and affordable but feels outdated in nearly every way.

Ultimately, the 2018 Ford Expedition proves that a full-size SUV can successfully combine family-friendly comfort with serious towing capability without significant compromise.