Loading

Is the Ford Expedition as big as a Suburban?

Not exactly: the Chevrolet Suburban is generally longer, while the Ford Expedition’s extended Max version is nearly the same length, making them very close in overall footprint.


In more detail, this article compares exterior dimensions, interior space, and practical use across recent model years to help buyers understand how these two full-size SUVs stack up against each other.


Size and dimensions: the basic picture


Length and wheelbase shape the vehicle’s footprint. The Suburban typically leads in total length, while the Expedition offers a Max variant that narrows the gap.



  • The Chevrolet Suburban (latest generations) runs about 225 to 226 inches long, depending on trim and equipment. That places it among the longest SUVs on sale.

  • The Ford Expedition (standard) is shorter, typically around 210 to 212 inches in length.

  • The Ford Expedition Max extends the overall length to roughly 226 inches, creating a near-tie with the Suburban for overall footprint.


Overall, if you measure by exterior length, the Suburban is usually longer; however, the Expedition Max is designed to deliver a similar footprint when both are fully equipped.


Interior space and cargo capacity


Interior volume and cargo space tell a different story from exterior length. More space behind the third row and in overall cargo areas are common buyer considerations.



  • Behind the third row, the Suburban offers substantially more cargo space (roughly 40+ cubic feet) than the Expedition (roughly 20 cubic feet in standard configuration).

  • Behind the second row, Suburban typically provides more total cargo capacity than Expedition, thanks to its longer body.

  • With the rear seats folded, both can reach large volumes, but Suburban generally maintains more total cargo space due to its length; Expedition Max narrows the gap, closer to Suburban levels.


In practice, people who need maximum cargo and three-row versatility may lean toward the Suburban, while those who want a nearly equal footprint with the Expedition Max may prefer Ford’s option.


Practical considerations and verdict


Other factors matter beyond raw dimensions, including curb weight, fuel economy, towing capacity, interior features, and ride quality. For a buyer deciding purely on size, here is the bottom line.



  • Suburban is typically the longer and roomier choice, with more cargo behind the third row.

  • Expedition Standard is shorter but the Expedition Max matches Suburban in length, largely removing the size gap.

  • Width and height are similar across both models, so on-street footprint is comparable; the real difference is interior layout and cargo space.


Regardless of size, both SUVs offer three-row seating, strong towing capabilities, and modern safety/comfort features, potentially weighing decision on how much interior space you need and how you plan to use the cargo area.


Summary


In summary, the Chevrolet Suburban is generally longer than the Ford Expedition, making it the larger overall vehicle in most configurations. The Expedition Max augments the standard Expedition to compete on length, bringing its footprint close to the Suburban. When it comes to cargo behind the third row, the Suburban typically wins, while configuration and year can influence the exact figures. Buyers should consider both exterior size and interior cargo needs when choosing between the two.

What is the Ford Expedition comparable to?


The Ford Expedition's main competitors are large, body-on-frame SUVs like the Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban, GMC Yukon/Yukon XL, and Toyota Sequoia. Other similar vehicles include the Nissan Armada and the luxury Lincoln Navigator, which shares mechanicals with the Expedition. Key comparisons often focus on cargo space, towing capacity, available powertrains (like hybrid options in the Sequoia), and interior luxury features.
 
Top competitors

  • Chevrolet Tahoe/Suburban: A long-time segment leader, with the Suburban offering more cargo space than the Expedition MAX. 
  • GMC Yukon/Yukon XL: The Yukon XL offers more cargo space than the Expedition MAX and is often compared directly on this feature. 
  • Toyota Sequoia: Features a standard hybrid powertrain with more standard horsepower and better fuel economy than the Expedition. 
  • Nissan Armada: A redesigned model that adds more luxury but is not available in an XXL size like the Expedition MAX. 
  • Lincoln Navigator: As part of the Ford family, it shares mechanical components but is positioned as a more luxurious and premium option. 



Is a Ford Expedition the same size as a Suburban?


Size: The Chevy SUV is larger than the Ford model, inside and out. Get into a Suburban for a more commanding drive with its longer dimensions and wheelbase. Cargo Space: The Suburban boasts 144.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity – more than 21 cubic feet larger than the Ford Expedition MAX.



What's bigger, a Ford Expedition or a Chevy Tahoe?


No, a standard-length Tahoe is slightly larger than a standard-length Ford Expedition in most dimensions, although the Expedition is taller. For example, the Tahoe is longer and wider, but the Expedition has more third-row legroom and shoulder room. 
This video compares the exterior dimensions and design of the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition: 58sCar ConfectionsYouTube · Jun 1, 2025

Dimension Chevrolet Tahoe Ford Expedition
Length ~211.3 inches ~209.9 inches
Width ~81 inches ~79.9 inches
Height ~75.8 inches ~76.6 inches
Third-row legroom ~36.7 inches ~36.1 inches
Third-row shoulder room ~62.7 inches ~64.2 inches
(function(){
(this||self).Wufxzb=function(c,e,f,l,k){var d=document.getElementById(c);if(d&&(d.offsetWidth!==0||d.offsetHeight!==0)){c=d.querySelector("div");var g=c.scrollWidth-c.offsetWidth,h=Math.min(e?g:0,g);c.scrollLeft=e&&(l||f)?0:h;var a=d.getElementsByTagName("g-left-button")[0],b=d.getElementsByTagName("g-right-button")[0];a&&b&&(e=RegExp("\\btHT0l\\b"),f=RegExp("\\bpQXcHc\\b"),a.className=a.className.replace(e,""),b.className=b.className.replace(e,""),h===0?a.className="pQXcHc "+a.className:(a.className=
a.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("pA30Ne")),h===g?b.className="pQXcHc "+b.className:(b.className=b.className.replace(f,""),k&&c.classList.add("FpCCub")),setTimeout(function(){a.className+=" tHT0l";b.className+=" tHT0l"},50))}};}).call(this);(function(){var id='__9UlaZHqIoSri-gPqoTAyA0_269';var rtl=false;var gecko=false;var edge=false;var soh=false;
(this||self).Wufxzb(id,rtl,gecko,edge,soh);})();
This video compares the interior features and space of the Chevy Tahoe and Ford Expedition: 59sThe Fast Lane TruckYouTube · May 7, 2025
  • The Tahoe is longer and wider, which contributes to its larger maximum cargo capacity and more legroom in the front and second rows. 
  • The Expedition is taller, giving it more ground clearance. It also provides more third-row legroom, shoulder room, and hip room, making it more comfortable for rear passengers. 
  • It is important to note that both vehicles have extended-wheelbase versions (Expedition MAX and Chevrolet Suburban) that are larger than the standard models. 



What are the biggest complaints about Ford Expeditions?


Ford Expedition Common Problems

  • Engine Problems. Engine-related issues top the list for Ford Expedition owners, and unfortunately, they tend to be some of the most costly.
  • Transmission Failures.
  • Suspension Problems.
  • Steering Issues.
  • Air Conditioning Issues.
  • Quick tips to find the right Ford Expedition bulbs:


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.