What is a full size SUV?

March 6th, 2024 by

An SUV (formally known as a sports utility vehicle) is a larger-sized vehicle, one that can handle everything from taking the kid’s sports equipment around town to picking up the in-laws at the airport along with all of their luggage. Though sizes range somewhat between makes and models, it is a good idea to make sure this vehicle fits your needs before making a purchase. Not all full-size SUVs really stack up to what you may be looking for in your next vehicle.

What Is a Full-Size SUV Technically?

Though manufacturers can call their vehicles whatever they want, a full-size SUV is one that is typically longer, wider, and offers more interior cargo space than other vehicles. Typically, these vehicles are over 200 inches long, though some are much larger at 225 inches. You will also find that their cubic square feet in the back is enough to carry ample groceries or a full load of gear.

What is a full-size SUV able to offer to you? Most manufacturers distinguish this vehicle by several things:

  • It has the ability to tow large items, like a trailer
  • It can handle more difficult terrain, with some handling rough terrain well and even high-water
  • It has to have ample interior space for both passengers as well as cargo
  • It needs to have three rows of seats offering seating for at least 6 people, but often more

Full-size vehicles often have two types of interior seats. Most offer three rows, with either two captain seats in the middle or two benches in the middle and back seats. That helps to expand the amount of room available for things like car seats.

Most of the time, your SUV should offer ample space in the back, including the back row and often middle row folding to expand to as much as 145 cubic feet. This should be enough room for two or three bags in just the very back without folding any seats down.

What Is a Full-Size SUV Capable of Offering to You?

While size is often the big factor when it comes to choosing a full-size vehicle for use, there are other features and applications that can also help make these vehicles stand out from others. Ultimately, when you need a large, powerful vehicle that can help you get some work down hauling around things and people, then you want a larger SUV. Consider these typical vehicle features (just remember that they all differ to some degree).

Towing capability

When you consider what a full-size SUV is, you have to take into consideration the vehicle’s ability to tow. While full-size pickup trucks and larger can do the same, SUVs offer more maneuverability and interior cargo space than a truck. They also tend to be far easier to drive. For that reason, many go with the SUV over a truck when they plan to tow.

You should expect a full-size SUV to be able to handle the towing of cargo trailers, pop-up campers, utility vehicles, and smaller RVs. Most manufacturers will provide a towing limit on their vehicle, meaning that it is the most towing weight the vehicle can pull. Depending on the size of the vehicle and its engine, some can pull as much as your average pickup truck. You may be able to use them for boats, large animals, and other heavy items.

Spacious interiors

A full-size vehicle is not just about getting more people into the vehicle. Rather, it is about providing more space no matter if you have 6 kids or just four adults to drive around. Full-size SUVs can do a great job of providing more legroom, better shoulder room between the front seats, and even enough space for a full-size adult to sit in the third row. You may need higher headroom if you’re tall, or you may want more space between seats. These vehicles give you that.

That means more comfort and better overall space to spread out. It could mean that the kids can take a nap on a long car ride or that there’s plenty of room for even a large dog or two to make the backseat comfortable.

What Is a Full-Size SUV Compared to a Standard SUV?

A standard SUV typically will be smaller inside and out. Some have an optional third row, while a full-size vehicle likely has a third row with far more room. Standard SUVs tend to max out at five people, and often, the interior is a bit less roomy, too, making it better for use with smaller people rather than three big teenagers in the back.

Standard-size SUVs still offer comfort, leg, and headroom and often provide a good amount of cargo room. You may be able to tow smaller items with them, too. Just don’t expect them to have the power or the size of the larger full-size SUV.

What Are Some Full-Size SUVs?

There are numerous full-size SUV manufacturers. You will find new models coming out all of the time, too. The key to remember here is that while the below list is up to date as of early 2024, it could change. Some manufacturers have trimmed back length while others add it., For the sake of this list, all vehicles are at least 200 inches in length.

Also, note that some are luxury vehicles as well. What is a full-size SUV that meets luxury standards? Here are a few examples:

  • Bentley Escalade
  • Audi Q7
  • Lexus LX
  • Tesla Model X
  • Land Rover Range Rover
  • Cadillac Escalade
  • Infiniti QX60
  • Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class

These luxury full-size SUVs tend to offer higher-end finishes, more extensive technology on board, and a more refined look and feel to them. Many offer the same power and performance as a full-size SUV but with added features.

What Is a Full-Size SUV That’s Even Larger?

What if you want an even bigger vehicle? Extra-large SUVs like those on this list tend to have more than 205 inches in length, though some are much longer.

  • GMC Yukon XL
  • Chevrolet Suburban
  • Jeep Wagoneer
  • Toyota Sequoia
  • Ford Expedition
  • Cadillac Escalade ESV
  • Lincoln Navigator
  • Infiniti QX80

These vehicles give you even more space and room for 8 or 9 people. They tend to be the best options for those who have a lot to tow as well.

How Much Does a Full-Size SUV Cost?

When it comes to purchasing a full-size SUV, you can expect costs to range widely. They are more expensive than the traditional standard-size SUV and significantly more than the average passenger vehicle. What you will find from that point is a wide range of prices based on model, features, and even the trim package you select.

You can expect the largest of these vehicles to cost $60,000 or more, with some reaching $80,000 with added trim packages. Basic models are likely to be less, but most start at around $45,000 or higher.

What Is a Full-Size SUV’s Fuel Economy?

The fuel economy for a full-size SUV will be lower than what you could expect from a smaller vehicle. These cars are heavier and have larger engines with more features on board. They carry more people and can be packed with more gear than most other vehicles. All of that means they tend to be less efficient.

However, they are improving. You will find numerous makes and models that have become more accessible than ever, with better fuel economy. Some even offer hybrid models that could potentially lower your cost to keep them fueled up. Always compare the mpg from one make and model to the next before making a decision.

Who Should Consider a Full-Size SUV?

What is a full-size SUV going to do for you personally? Not everyone needs a large car. While they tend to be a bit more expensive and use more fuel to keep them on the road, for many people, they are the ideal choice because of their size and power. They also tend to offer nice upgrade options like sunrooms and high-end technology. You can choose between leather seats and enhanced safety features, too.

But who really needs them? You may benefit from a full-size SUV in several areas:

  • You plan to travel with your pull-behind RV or trailer. SUVs like this give you more cargo room and ample towing capability. Unlike a pickup truck, full-size SUVs can carry more passengers with you on that next adventure.
  • You need lots of cargo space. With fold-town seats (often for two rows), you can count on having room enough for all of your needs, including all of your camping gear and even all of the supplies you need for your home improvement project. You may even get a new hot water tank in there!
  • You have a lot of growing people in your family. If you have children who are smaller now, they will get taller with longer legs and need more space. If you’re buying a car for your family of 5 or more, and they are soon to be teens, it’s time to consider an upgrade.

The best way to find out if a full-size SUV is right for you is to get behind the wheel to test drive one. Stop in to see us at Sanger Chevrolet GMC to find out why these are some of the most in-demand vehicles today.

Posted in Guide Central