Top 2021 Full-Size SUVs

Comfort, strong appearance, powerful engines, a lot of space, superb towing capacity, and reliability are the reasons why buyers love full-size SUVs. Well, their size make them not so great choice for a city drive. Tight streets are parking lots are killers for full-size SUVs. On the highway, or off the road, these vehicles will show the full potential.

The price is not a dealbreaker. The cheapest models in this segment start under $50,000. The average price paid for crossovers and SUVs in the US is $28,000 (new and used). For new trucks, US buyers pay $40,000 on average. So, adding $10,000 above that is nothing spectacular. Nevertheless, the high-end models could send you a six-digit code to pay. Every model has its advantages, with different levels of equipment and capability. Let’s see what we can expect in 2021 from the full-size SUV class.

2021 Chevy Tahoe

Definitely, one of the stars of the new season. We cannot talk about the 2021 Chevy Tahoe, without mentioning its larger sibling – Suburban. Well, this is basically the same vehicle, but Tahoe is the base version with a shorter wheelbase and body. The SUV is entering the new generation with a lot of modifications. First of all, there is a fresh look. But, the independent rear suspension is the part we were waiting for ages. Most GM’s rivals are already taking advantage of such configuration. From now on, the 2021 Tahoe will be more capable for off-road adventures.

The engine lineup is also going to be revisited. The biggest addition should be a turbodiesel engine. Well, the company confirmed it for another large SUV, GMC Yukon. We doubt General Motors will miss adding it to 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban. The top of the lineup version is High Country. The premium edition of the SUV will launch the price to the premium waters.

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2021 Chevy Tahoe

2021 Chevrolet Suburban

Like said, the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban will be the larger version of Tahoe. While the base model is 210 inches long, the extended SUV adds 15 in more. Compared to the previous generation, that is more than the inch of growth. Tahoe is longer than before as well. The wheelbase is 134 inches, compared to 130 inch gap in the previous generation.

The extension will cause changes inside the cabin. The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban will be a nine-seater, with plenty of space for all passengers. There will be more room for cargo as well. Compared to its archrival, Ford Expedition Max, Suburban will offer 5 more cubic feet behind the third row, 41 cu.ft. total. The same engine choices will be available like for the Tahoe, as well as the IRS.

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2021 Ford Expedition

Speaking of the 2021 Ford Expedition, we must say this is one of the rare models that can cope with the competition by using a V6 engine. Engineers are not squeezing the maximum from this drivetrain. The SUV will get a version with 375 horsepower, while the 3.5-liter unit with a twin-turbo setup can offer up to 400 ponies for the high-end trim levels. In some vehicles, the output reaches 450 hp and 510 lb-ft.

We can find a lot more power in other full-size SUVs, but none of them can tow as much as the 2021 Ford Expedition. We will see if diesel engines are going to change the situation. The SUV is rated at 9,300 lbs. Also, a diesel engine is possible, as well as the new V8. Power router is a ten-speed automatic and the Blue Oval is nearly ten years ahead of GM with the IRS underpinning the Expedition frame.

2021 Jeep Grand Wagoneer

General Motors is launching the new generation of full-size SUVs, but the FCA is going to deliver an all-new vehicle for this segment. The company announced the comeback of the 2021 Jeep Grand Wagoneer. The vehicle is scheduled for 2021 YM. Wagoneer could be the base version, while the Grand Wagoneer is the extended model.

There are no further details about the SUV. However, we can assume what is going to be under the hood of the 2021 Jeep Grand Wagoneer. FCA has plenty of power to offer. Definitely, all eyes are on the Hellcat engine. A 6.2-liter supercharged V8 can produce 707 hp for Grand Wagoneer. It will be the perfect fit for the full-size SUV. On the other hand, FCA is not making its legendary engine so widespread.

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2021 Jeep Grand Wagoneer concept

2021 GMC Yukon

Most of the changes happening on the 2021 GMC Yukon we already mentioned speaking of its GM twins, 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban. The Vehicle gets the redesign and the IRS. Still, the diesel engine is confirmed for the Yukon and Yukon XL (extended model). The base engine remains the petrol V8, while the upper trim levels are going to use a 6.2-liter displacement with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque.

Besides the XL model and a diesel unit, there are a lot of other things that recommend the 2021 GMC Yukon to buyers. For example, if you are a fan of the off-road drive, the AT4 version is bringing upgrades that will make adventures more fun. The SUV is lifted and gets more ground clearance. If the luxury is what you are seeking, then 2021 Yukon Denali package is going to stun enthusiasts with the most advanced technology in the automotive industry. Of course, its price is close to the premium brands.

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2021 GMC Yukon render

2021 Nissan Armada

We expect a lot from the 2021 Nissan Armada. The Japanese carmaker is going to refresh the SUV lineup and the full-size model is one of the priorities, alongside compact Rogue. We can hear a lot of things about the electrification, but the company is keeping everything on the thin ice. The Monograph concept will underpin the new luxury vehicles under the Infiniti brand, but some of these features could be used for the new Armada.

One of the certain things about the 2021 Nissan Armada is that SUV is keeping a 5.6-liter V8 engine. The company has no intention to replace it with a high-output V6 unit yet. A V8 is good for 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The main problem is the fuel economy, which drops to 16 mpg combined.

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2021 Nissan Armada

2021 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Toyota Sequoia will be unchanged compared to the previous model. The company added the TRD Pro package and made the full-size SUV the fourth such vehicle in the lineup. The new generation of the Sequoia will arrive in 2023 or 2024. Until then, not too many changes will happen on the big rig.

Under the bonnet of the 2021 Toyota Sequoia is still going to be a 5.7-liter V8 with 380 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Arguably, this is one of the best engines in the segment. Still, it is also very thirsty, so the carmaker is preparing a replacement. The I-Force Max is near the production. The first details are out, but there is no info about specifications and usage.

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2021 Toyota Sequoia TRD Pro

2021 Cadillac Escalade

We are moving to the premium segment. The 2021 Cadillac Escalade is going to be the luxury version of Chevrolet’s big rigs. Like its siblings, the premium SUV is also entering the new generation with a lot of new features. This SUV is using only a 6.2-liter V8 engine, while the diesel unit is not going to be part of the lineup. In 2019, this was the best-selling model in the full-size class.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV is the extended version of the SUV. Rumors about the truck model carrying the same name are louder nowadays. Do not be surprised if GM launches the Escalade EXT again. The luxury has its price. The base MSRP of the new generation will be closer to $80,000. Heavily-loaded SUV with the most advanced features will still remain under $100k.

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2021 Cadillac Escalade oled screen

2021 Lincoln Navigator

Ford and GM are fighting in all segments. Besides the truck and muscle car classes, one of the most famous battles are between luxury full-size SUVs. The 2021 Lincoln Navigator is taking the #2 position in 2019 when it came to sales. The vehicle is going to be available in few trim levels, and the most exciting packages are Black Label with unique interior themes. Unlike the Escalade, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator will end up in six-digit price realm with all the upgrades the SUV is offering.

We are still waiting for updates about the new drivetrains. The luxury model is probably not getting a diesel unit. A high-output V6 is capable to create 450 ponies. Still, the company could add a new 7.3-liter V8 as an option. In this case, buyers can count on 430 hp and 380 lb-ft, and the SUV might reach the towing capacity of 10,000 pounds. Depending on the configuration, the 2021 Lincoln Navigator might be a seven- or eight-seater.

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2021 Lincoln Navigator interior

2021 BMW X7

Speaking of luxury, we must position German carmakers very high. The long tradition of big three companies is carried over to the US and buyers in this part of the world have trust in their models. The 2021 BMW X7 is coming unchanged, since the Bavarian carmaker introduced this vehicle only a couple of years ago. Still, further upgrades are promising, especially when the X7M model enters the dealerships.

Still, the base offer for the 2021 BMW X7 includes a V6 engine. Most of the buyers will decide to go with a 4.4-liter turbo-eight, where they get 455 hp and 480 lb-ft of torque. That is not all since the M50i model will deliver 523 horsepower, which is enough for the 0-60 mph acceleration in 4.5 seconds. The 2021 BMW X7M is going to top that. However, the price will end just under its fiercest archrival, Mercedes AMG GLS.

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The three-point star brand is a synonym for luxury. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS is its representative in the full-size SUV segment. Like BMW, the base unit is a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6. Again, not worthy of analysis. The more serious outcome is there with a 4.0-liter displacement, which brings 483 hp and 515 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes is introducing a hybrid unit for the upcoming season, which will increase outputs. The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLS 63 is making the most damage with the handcrafted 5.5-liter mill. With 577 hp, it is one of the most powerful SUVs in the world.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS is a seven-seater. You can replace the bench in the middle row with captain’s chairs. In this case, the GLS becomes a six-seater. The MBUX infotainment system is one of the highlights of the entire offer, although we can list a lot more features. The price starts at $75,000 and a V8 already brings it over $100,000. The most powerful AMG version is worth $130,000 and only a few SUVs are more expensive.

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2021 Audi Q8

The 2021 Audi Q8 has to catch up with its German rivals. The company introduced the full-size model last season and it receives positive feedbacks right at the start. Still, the SUV lacks power. The first edition came only with a V6 and 335 ponies. Audi is ready to use a V8, currently available for Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne. A 4.0-liter displacement can deliver between 450 and 670 hp, depending on the configuration. We believe that RS Q8 or SQ8 editions will breach 600 ponies.

The base price of the new full-size SUV is pretty attractive. The MSRP is only $70,000. Still, you are getting a V6 engine. Be sure that a V8 will add at least $10k to the overall cost. Plus, the larger engine will bring more features. The high-output 2021 Audi RS Q8 will land above $100,000. The MMI and Virtual Cockpit are the highlights, and the base offer also includes sunroof and a 3-zone climate control.

2021 Land Rover Range Rover

Speaking of luxury, we introduce you one of the most expensive SUVs in the full-size segment. The high-end version of the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover is the SV Autobiography and it is one of the rear models that cost over $200,000. It uses the latest features, premium materials, and a 5.0-liter V8 engine with 557 hp.

Still, the largest Land Rover Range Rover SUV has a lot of other options to offer. Every trim level uses a different drivetrain. So, the base offer is coming with a 3.0 displacement and 355 hp. The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover will also offer a diesel unit of the same volume. It cuts the power output to 255 hp, but maximizes torque (443 lb-ft) and fuel economy (22/28 mpg). A petrol engine can be tuned for 395 hp (P400). The SUV also comes with a plug-in hybrid configuration based on a 2.0-liter four-pot mill. Before saying anything about the size, check the specs sheet where it says 398 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. A 5.0-liter engine is also available with the lighter configuration for the Autobiography edition with 518 hp and 460 lb-ft.

2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan

A price of $200,000 is not enough to be the most expensive SUV in the luxury segment when there is another British carmaker in the market. The 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan is the only model to get the MSRP over $300,000. Well, a few new vehicles are on the way to beat the price of the luxury SUV, including Ferrari Purosangue.

Under the bonnet of the 2021 Rolls-Royce Cullinan is a 6.8-liter twin-turbo engine with 563 hp and 625 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and uses an all-wheel drive. The SUV needs less than 5 seconds to accelerate 0-60 mph. The styling is even more impressive with the unique features in every part of the exterior and interior.

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2021 Lexus LX

Still, there are not too many buyers of such vehicle. So, let’s get back to the less expensive, but still hefty-pricing realm. The 2021 Lexus LX is going to be one of the most aggressive full-size SUVs thanks to its front grille. Still, the styling is very old and the LX needs a huge redesign. The company knows that and it seems the big change is on the horizon. The vehicle is going to be rebranded and the new name is LX 600.

Toyota, an owner of the Lexus brand, filed for the new nameplate. However, it made us confused. Usually, the number in the alphanumeric nomenclature means something. LX 570 shows the 5.7-liter displacement. Similar is with smaller SUVs. Is the new LX600 coming with a 6.0-liter displacement, or the model is going to deliver 600 ponies. Lexus and Toyota are yet to explain.

Lexus LX 600

2021 Toyota Land Cruiser

The longest-serving nameplate in Toyota’s family is waiting for the new generation for too long. The sales dropped to the point where some experts believe the carmaker is going to discontinue the iconic SUV. We don’t think it is happening. The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser is not bringing too many changes, but the edition for 2022 might introduce the Series 300 generation. The I-Force Max twin-turbo V6 should replace a V8 and fix the major issue – the fuel economy.

Still, the question is – can V6 maintain the perfect balance between luxury and utility? A V8 makes Land Cruiser one of the most versatile vehicle, not only SUV, in the market. It can tow, drive on highway, or in urban areas. But, 15 mpg fuel economy is a deal-breaker. Also the price of the SUV which starts above $80,000. The 2021 Toyota Land Cruiser will be well-packed and the company is not offering too many options.

2021 Toyota Land Cruiser concept

2021 Infiniti QX80

The 2021 Infiniti QX80 should debut as an all-new model next season. The SUV is going to be based on the Monograph Concept. The futuristic platform takes place on the upcoming vehicle, sooner than anyone expected. Nissan confirmed it, but we are still not going to celebrate before we see the new QX80. The Japanese manufacturer already failed to deliver the concept which everyone saw in the production – the Titan Warrior truck.

Like for the Nissan Armada, we won’t see changes under the hood. A 5.6-liter V6 is a reliable partner of the full-size SUV. Still, the new generation will increase the price. Currently, the MSRP starts under $70,000, making it one of the most affordable full-size luxury SUVs. However, the new 2021 Infiniti QX80 will cost more than that in the base form, while the Limited package adds more than $20,000 in features.

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2021 Infiniti QX80 monograph concept