Shopping for the best used full size SUVs means getting serious space, strength, and comfort without paying new-vehicle prices. Whether you need three-row seating for family duty, confident towing for weekend toys, or all-weather traction for winter commutes, today’s full size SUV market delivers standout value. Our guide highlights proven models like Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban, GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, Ford Expedition, Toyota Sequoia, and Nissan Armada, with insights on reliability, year-by-year updates, and ownership costs. Explore real-world cargo room, tech, safety features, and typical towing capacities to match your lifestyle. Ready to compare options locally or value your trade before you shop? Browse our Used Inventory and get a fast estimate on Value My Trade. Want more three-row choices beyond full size? See Best Used 3 Row SUVs for even more family-friendly picks. Use this page as your starting point to find a confident, long-lasting SUV that fits your budget and your driveway.

What Makes a Full Size SUV a Smart Used Buy

Full size SUVs blend truck-like capability with everyday comfort, giving you abundant passenger space and genuine towing muscle. As used vehicles, they can represent outstanding value because depreciation has already lowered the price while the chassis and drivetrains remain built for heavy lifting. Many models carry V8 or high-torque turbocharged power, body-on-frame durability, and proven four-wheel drive systems. If you need seating for seven to eight, cargo space for strollers or sports gear, and confident highway passing power, a used full size SUV is hard to beat.

Top Used Full Size SUV Picks to Consider

Below are popular full size SUVs known for capability, space, and strong owner satisfaction. Always verify exact features, drivetrains, and towing packages on specific vehicles in our Used Inventory.

Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban

The Tahoe offers a versatile footprint with three-row seating, while the Suburban stretches the wheelbase for maximum cargo behind the third row. Look for models with the 5.3L V8 for a balance of power and efficiency, and the 6.2L V8 for stronger acceleration. Tow ratings can approach 8,000 to 8,400 pounds when properly equipped. Later generations added independent rear suspension, improved ride quality, and modern driver assistance. Trim levels like LT and Premier often include advanced safety tech, leather, and premium audio. Maintenance is straightforward, parts are common, and resale tends to remain strong.

GMC Yukon and Yukon XL

Sharing much with Tahoe and Suburban, the Yukon lineup leans slightly upscale with richer interiors and Denali trims offering the 6.2L V8 and luxury appointments. Expect composed highway manners, excellent front seat comfort, and powerful towing. Many Yukons include Magnetic Ride Control on higher trims, which enhances ride and handling. When shopping used, prioritize vehicles with documented service records and consider certified options to maximize peace of mind.

Ford Expedition

Expedition pairs a high-strength frame with a turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6, delivering robust torque and confident towing. Many models feature a 10-speed automatic and a spacious third row that comfortably fits adults. The MAX variant expands cargo room significantly. Expedition earns praise for its mix of ride comfort and fuel economy relative to V8 rivals. When browsing, confirm maintenance on turbos and cooling components and look for vehicles with towing packages, integrated trailer brake controllers, and Pro Trailer Backup Assist where available.

Toyota Sequoia

Sequoia is renowned for long-term durability, simple maintenance, and consistent V8 power. While tech features may trail newer rivals in some years, owners value the robust chassis, smooth ride, and reliability record. Expect strong resale and a reputation for hitting high mileage with routine care. If long-term ownership is your priority, put Sequoia high on the list and review our reliability resource at Most Reliable Used SUVs.

Nissan Armada

Armada delivers excellent value on the used market. A muscular V8, refined cabin materials, and quiet ride make it a comfortable highway cruiser. Many trims come well-equipped with advanced safety features and premium audio. Towing capacity can exceed 8,000 pounds when properly configured. Focus on models with thorough service documentation and inspect suspension components and tires, as the Armada’s weight can accelerate wear if maintenance was deferred.

Recommended Model Years and Features

Every generation brings updates, but you can find standout values across a range of model years. For many buyers, 2016 to 2021 hits a sweet spot with modern safety tech, smartphone integration, and improved transmissions. Seek vehicles with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assistance to boost everyday confidence. Families also appreciate power-folding third rows, hands-free liftgates, and heated second-row seats for winter comfort. If towing is top priority, confirm a factory tow package, auxiliary coolers, a hitch receiver, and wiring harnesses. You will find additional towing-focused guidance on Best Used Vehicles For Towing.

Full Size SUV Towing, Cargo, and Seating

The right SUV should fit your people and your gear while matching your towing needs. Suburban and Yukon XL shine when you need maximum cargo with all three rows in use. Expedition MAX rivals them in interior space and offers capable towing configurations. Tahoe, Yukon, Sequoia, and Armada provide strong cargo volume with the third row folded, which is ideal for bulky strollers or camping equipment. Remember that tongue weight, payload, and axle ratios matter as much as advertised tow ratings. Ask our team to decode the door jamb payload sticker and build sheet on any vehicle you are considering in the Used Inventory.

Reliability and Ownership Costs

Durability is a major reason shoppers love full size SUVs. Still, ownership costs vary by model and maintenance history. V8 engines from GM and Toyota are known for longevity with regular oil changes and cooling system care. Ford’s EcoBoost powertrains provide strong torque and can be dependable with proper maintenance and quality fluids. Tires, brakes, and suspension components are larger and often cost more than those on compact vehicles, so budgeting for upkeep is wise. To compare long-term value, explore related pages like Used Cars With Longest Lifespan and Used Cars With Best Resale Value.

Fuel Economy Considerations

Full size SUVs are not economy cars, but modern engines and transmissions have improved efficiency. Cylinder deactivation on some V8s can save fuel during steady cruising, while turbocharged V6 models deliver strong torque without V8 thirst in light-load scenarios. Driving style, tire pressure, and roof racks also impact fuel economy. If maximizing efficiency is a key priority, you might also consider models listed at Best Used Cars With Good Gas Mileage for a second household vehicle, or narrow your SUV search to trims with updated transmissions and aerodynamic improvements.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Active safety tech can be a difference maker in a vehicle of this size. Look for models with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane departure alert, and high-quality headlights. Larger brakes, trailer-sway control, and stability systems are helpful when towing or navigating slick roads. Explore more safety-focused picks at Safest Used SUVs and Used Cars With Best Crash Test Ratings.

How to Inspect and Test Drive a Used Full Size SUV

A structured test drive can reveal how a vehicle was treated and how it will fit your life. Start with a cold start, listening for unusual noises. On the road, evaluate steering feel, brake modulation, transmission shifts, and suspension compliance over bumps. Try tight parking maneuvers to confirm visibility and camera quality. If towing is on your agenda, verify hitch equipment, trailer wiring, cooling packages, and rear axle ratio. You can bring our Used Car Buying Checklist as a quick reference. When you are ready to get behind the wheel, book a slot via Schedule A Test Drive.

Budgeting, Financing, and Trade-In Tips

Set a total budget that includes taxes, registration, and an allowance for the first year of maintenance and tires if needed. Get prequalified to understand your monthly payment targets and compare offers. See How To Finance A Used Car and Used Car Loan Interest Rates for in-depth guidance. If you have a vehicle to trade, time your appraisal before test drives so you can shop with clear numbers. Our quick estimator at Value My Trade helps you benchmark your equity.

AWD and Winter Driving Confidence

For cold climates, four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive offers traction and confidence, especially when paired with proper winter-rated tires. Many full size SUVs include selectable terrain modes and advanced traction systems that optimize power delivery on snow or mud. Explore seasonal picks at Best Used Vehicles For Winter Driving and capability-minded choices at Best Used AWD Vehicles.

Who Should Buy a Full Size SUV

If you regularly carry six or more passengers, tow boats or campers, or need generous cargo space for work and play, a full size SUV can simplify your life. They excel for families with multiple car seats, travelers who road trip often, and drivers who want the confidence of a large, stable vehicle in mixed weather. If you want similar seating in a smaller package, browse our Best Used Midsize SUVs guide as a comparison point.

Related Research and Helpful Links

Continue your research across our site to compare models, safety, reliability, and ownership costs. Below are quick links to keep your search moving:

Next Steps

Compare trims and equipment across our Used Inventory, estimate trade value at Value My Trade, and explore financing at Payment Options. When a top candidate appears, lock in a time through Schedule A Test Drive. If questions arise at any point, our team is ready at Contact Us and you can learn more about us at About Us.