Full-size three-row SUVs are designed to handle a variety of tasks, making them the ultimate utilitarian vehicles. They offer ample cargo space, often exceeding 100 cubic feet, and can accommodate up to nine passengers.
These SUVs also come equipped with advanced entertainment features, such as rear-seat screens and high-quality sound systems, ensuring comfort and convenience for long trips.
One of the most iconic full-size SUVs, the Chevrolet Suburban, has been in production since 1935, evolving from a simple eight-passenger vehicle with an inline-six engine to a powerful towing machine.
While some luxury models, like the 2025 Lincoln Navigator, start at over $100,000, not everyone wants to spend that much. Fortunately, there are more affordable options for those needing to tow heavy loads—sometimes over 7,000 pounds—without breaking the bank.
1. 2016 Toyota Sequoia
The 2016 Toyota Sequoia, part of the second-generation lineup that ran from 2008 to 2022, remains a solid choice for those seeking a powerful and reliable full-size SUV. With a current retail value of $22,549, it offers a balance of performance and utility.
Equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.7-liter V8 engine producing 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque, the Sequoia is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 115 mph.
A key selling point of the Sequoia is its impressive towing capacity, making it a strong contender for those needing to haul heavy loads.
The rear-wheel-drive SR5 model can tow up to 7,400 pounds, while the four-wheel-drive Platinum trim still manages a respectable 7,100 pounds. With a payload capacity of 1,370 pounds, this SUV provides a solid combination of power, space, and versatility, making it a dependable option in the full-size SUV market.
2. 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe
The 2017 Chevrolet Tahoe is a highly popular full-size SUV, offering versatility and strong towing capabilities. With a current retail value of $21,187 for the LS trim and $23,000 for the more well-equipped LT, it provides a range of options for buyers.
The Tahoe is powered by a naturally aspirated 5.3-liter V8 engine that delivers 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 111 mph.
One of the Tahoe’s standout features is its impressive towing capacity, making it ideal for those needing to haul heavy loads. The rear-wheel-drive version can tow up to 8,600 pounds, while the four-wheel-drive variant follows closely with 8,400 pounds.
Equipped with a max trailering package, the Tahoe includes a trailer brake controller and hill start assist, enhancing its towing performance. With a payload capacity of 1,720 pounds, it remains a strong choice for both utility and everyday driving.
3. 2017 GMC Yukon
The 2017 GMC Yukon offers a balance of luxury and capability, with a current retail value of $21,099 for the SLE trim. The more upscale SLT is available for $24,000, while the high-end Denali model, featuring a more powerful 6.2-liter V8 engine, is priced at around $26,223.
The standard 5.3-liter V8 engine produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon can reach 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph, making it a solid performer for a full-size SUV.
When it comes to towing, the Yukon remains highly capable, though slightly less so than its Chevrolet Tahoe counterpart. The base models can tow up to 8,500 pounds, while the Denali’s rating is slightly lower at 8,100 pounds.
It also features a payload capacity of 1,690 pounds. GMC offers various trailering packages, including a backup assistant with a trailer camera and a two-speed transfer case, enhancing its towing and hauling capabilities for those needing a reliable and versatile SUV.
4. 2016 Cadillac Escalade
The 2016 Cadillac Escalade is a luxury SUV that combines high-end comfort with impressive capability. With a current retail value of $20,470, it offers premium features while still delivering strong performance.
Powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, it is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
The Escalade accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.0 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph. While it’s rarely seen off-road due to its high-end design and large wheels, it has the potential to handle rough terrain if needed.
Beyond luxury, the Escalade is also built for utility, boasting a towing capacity of up to 8,300 pounds, making it a strong contender for hauling heavy loads. It comes with either rear-wheel or four-wheel drive and features a solid rear axle, which enhances its towing stability.
With a payload capacity of 1,520 pounds, the Escalade balances luxury and functionality, making it an excellent choice for those who want both refined comfort and powerful performance.
5. 2018 Chevrolet Suburban
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban is a versatile full-size SUV that combines spaciousness, towing capability, and affordability. With a current retail value of $20,747 for the LS trim, it is priced lower than some slightly older Tahoe models, making it a great value.
The LT trim is available for $23,350, while the higher-end Premier model is valued at $27,000. Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, the Suburban features a six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, offering solid performance for a vehicle of its size.
A key feature of the Suburban is its ability to seat up to nine passengers, thanks to its available front bench seat. In addition to its spacious interior, it excels in towing, with a capacity of 8,300 pounds and a payload limit of 1,690 pounds.
The max trailering package includes a trailer sway controller, which enhances safety by automatically applying brakes to help maintain stability. With its balance of passenger space, towing power, and advanced safety features, the 2018 Suburban remains a strong choice for families and those needing a reliable, heavy-duty SUV.
Also Read: 10 Best Cars for Road Trips That Offer the Smoothest Ride and Fuel Efficiency
6. 2018 Ford Expedition
The 2018 Ford Expedition stands out as the most capable towing vehicle on this list while still offering great value. With a current retail value of $19,803 for the XL trim, it provides an affordable option, while the higher-end Platinum model is priced at $25,155.
Unlike many full-size SUVs that rely on V8 engines, the Expedition features a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 that delivers 375 horsepower and an impressive 470 lb-ft of torque.
Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 115 mph, making it both powerful and efficient.
What truly sets the Expedition apart is its industry-leading towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, making it the best option for those needing to haul heavy loads. It also includes Ford’s innovative Pro Trailer Backup Assist, which helps drivers maneuver their trailers more easily by controlling steering input during reversing.
With its combination of high towing capacity, advanced trailering technology, and a strong balance of performance and affordability, the 2018 Expedition is an excellent choice for those who need a full-size SUV with serious hauling capabilities.
7. 2017 GMC Yukon XL
The 2017 GMC Yukon XL is a spacious and capable full-size SUV that offers strong towing performance at a competitive price. With a current retail value of $19,377, it is slightly more affordable than the Chevrolet Suburban while providing similar capabilities.
For those seeking luxury, the fully loaded Denali trim is available for under $25,000, depending on the vehicle’s condition and mileage.
Equipped with a naturally aspirated 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, the Yukon XL pairs this powertrain with a six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds and reach a top speed of 112 mph.
When it comes to towing, the standard Yukon XL can haul up to 8,300 pounds, while the Denali trim, despite its premium features, has a slightly lower towing capacity of 7,900 pounds. The SUV also offers a payload capacity of 1,660 pounds, making it a strong contender for hauling both passengers and cargo.
Additional features such as an automatic leveling suspension and a trailer brake controller enhance its towing capabilities, providing extra stability and control. With its balance of affordability, towing strength, and advanced features, the 2017 Yukon XL remains a solid choice for those needing a spacious and powerful SUV.
8. 2019 Nissan Armada
The 2019 Nissan Armada remains a strong value in the full-size SUV market, despite the introduction of a redesigned 2025 model. With a current retail value of $18,601, it offers affordability without sacrificing performance. Buyers can even opt for the fully loaded Platinum trim for $24,778.
Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 390 horsepower and 394 lb-ft of torque, the Armada is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and has a top speed of 94 mph, making it both powerful and capable.
One of the Armada’s standout features is its consistent towing capacity, regardless of drivetrain choice. Whether in rear-wheel or four-wheel drive, it maintains an 8,500-pound towing capacity, supported by a payload limit of 1,724 pounds.
The SUV also includes a tow/haul mode that optimizes shift ratios for better performance when towing, along with an automatically leveling rear suspension for added stability.
With its blend of affordability, strong towing capabilities, and practical features, the 2019 Nissan Armada remains a solid choice for those in need of a durable and powerful full-size SUV.
9. 2015 Lincoln Navigator
The 2015 Lincoln Navigator offers a combination of luxury and impressive towing capabilities, making it one of the most well-rounded full-size SUVs. With a current retail value of $15,680, it provides an affordable alternative to newer luxury SUVs while maintaining strong performance.
Powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 365 horsepower and 410 lb-ft of torque, it features a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
The Navigator accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 113 mph. Although it may be an older generation, it remains a solid choice, especially considering the significant price jump for newer models.
What sets the Navigator apart is its ability to tow up to 9,000 pounds, making it the highest-rated luxury SUV for towing. Like the Ford Expedition, it includes a trailer backup assist feature when equipped with the towing package.
However, the Navigator goes a step further by incorporating a front-facing camera that detects road imperfections and adjusts the suspension for a smoother towing experience.
With a well-appointed interior, optional rear entertainment screens, and a comfortable ride, the 2015 Lincoln Navigator is an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of towing power and upscale amenities.
10. 2016 Infiniti QX80
The 2016 Infiniti QX80 is a surprisingly reliable and capable full-size luxury SUV, offering strong towing performance at an affordable price. With a current retail value of $13,576, it stands out as one of the most budget-friendly options in its class.
Notably, this model year has no recalls and boasts a 77 out of 100 reliability score from J.D. Power, highlighting its dependability. Powered by a naturally aspirated 5.6-liter V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, the QX80 pairs its powertrain with a 7-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive.
It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds and has an impressive top speed of 133 mph, making it one of the faster SUVs in this segment.
Despite its luxury focus, the QX80 is a capable towing vehicle, with a maximum capacity of 8,500 pounds regardless of drivetrain choice. This makes it an excellent option for hauling boats, campers, or trailers without sacrificing comfort.
Infiniti designed the QX80 with all the essential towing features, ensuring a smooth and controlled experience. With its blend of affordability, reliability, and performance, the 2016 Infiniti QX80 remains a strong choice for those seeking a luxurious yet capable SUV.
Whether you need a powerful hauler for towing heavy loads or a spacious SUV for family road trips, these full-size models offer a variety of features to suit different needs and budgets.
From budget-friendly options like the 2016 Infiniti QX80 to high-performance choices like the 2018 Ford Expedition, each SUV on this list delivers a balance of capability, reliability, and value.
With impressive towing capacities ranging from 7,000 to 9,300 pounds, these vehicles prove that you don’t have to break the bank to get a capable and durable full-size SUV.
No matter which model you choose, all of these SUVs provide strong performance, ample cargo space, and advanced towing technologies to make hauling easier and safer.
Whether you prioritize luxury, affordability, or sheer towing power, there’s an option for every driver. With careful consideration of your needs and budget, one of these SUVs could be the perfect fit for your next adventure.
Also Read: 10 Best Cars for Road Trips That Offer the Smoothest Ride and Fuel Efficiency
