If you’re taller than the average person, finding a vehicle that’s easy to access and comfortable can be a challenge. You might assume a large SUV like the Ford Expedition or Chevy Tahoe would easily accommodate a tall person. That’s true, but one model is better than the other, according to Consumer Reports. Let’s look at why the consumer site recommends the Expedition over the Tahoe for tall drivers.
How Consumer Reports tests the best cars for tall people
2022 Ford Expedition and 2022 Chevy Tahoe | Ford Motor Company; Chevrolet
Each year, Consumer Reports thoroughly vets new vehicles. A diverse group of test drivers evaluates each vehicle for access, comfort, driving position, and visibility for consumers of all sizes. They then gather the data and use it to develop composite scores.
Once they have the data, they publish a list of the best cars for people over 6 feet tall. Ryan Pszczolkowski, Consumer Reports’ senior auto testing technician, is 6-foot-2. Pszczolkowski says CR’s test drivers analyze the balance among headroom, legroom, and steering wheel position in each vehicle.
He also explains that it’s important to understand your needs before you begin shopping. Most drivers think they need a larger vehicle if they’re taller, but that isn’t necessarily true.
Pszczolkowski suggests that when you find a vehicle with plenty of space in the driver’s seat, ensure there’s also plenty of room for passengers in the rear. In addition, he explains that having a tilting and telescoping steering wheel can also make a difference for tall drivers.
2022 Ford Expedition: Consumer Reports’ pick for the best large SUV for tall people
The 2022 Ford Expedition weighs less than its predecessor and offers more in the way of comfort, convenience, and safety features.
You can get the 2022 Expedition in two lengths. The Max is a foot longer than the standard Expedition, making it a strong competitor to the Chevy Suburban. A foot makes a big difference when it comes to cargo space behind the third row, where adults can sit comfortably. But the additional length doesn’t make parking easier.
Under the Expedition’s hood is a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine harnessing 375 hp. It can tow up to 9,300 pounds. Gas mileage is what you’d expect from a full-size SUV — 16 mpg — on par with the rest of the class.
The driver’s seat offers good visibility and a high driving position. Both front seats are spacious, comfortable, and easy to adjust. The model that the CR team tested had two-way lumbar support on both front seats. The second-row seats are also comfortable. They recline and slide forward and back for convenience.
Though the ride is a little stiff, it’s still composed and mostly comfortable. In addition, the 2022 Ford Expedition handles well, even under pressure.
2022 Chevy Tahoe: The next best thing to the 2022 Ford Expedition
Like its premium cousin, the GMC Yukon, the Chevrolet Tahoe sports a redesign for the 2022 model year. This large three-row SUV is comfortable, quiet, and powerful.
Chevrolet replaced the Tahoe’s old solid-axle rear suspension with an independent rear suspension like those used in cars and crossovers. The result is a more refined ride, better handling, and a roomier cabin.
The 2022 Tahoe has a 5.3-liter V8 engine that sounds good and packs plenty of power. It pairs with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Its fuel economy is 17 mpg.
The suspension on the standard Tahoe is good at absorbing blows from the road, even at highway speeds. According to Consumer Reports, the Premier trim brings an adaptive suspension, Magnetic Ride Control, providing a refined ride. There’s a bit of body roll when cornering, but the handling is better in this model.
Like the Ford Expedition, the Chevy Tahoe is large, requiring climbing to enter, even for some taller people. Running boards are a bonus here. Inside, the cabin is well insulated against engine and road noise. And the seats are wide, spacious, and supportive, including those in the second and third rows.
Keyword: 2022 Ford Expedition vs. 2022 Chevy Tahoe: Consumer Reports Picks the Better Large SUV for Tall Drivers