Why SUVs Are Back
Originally engineered for tradespeople and outdoor enthusiasts, full-size truck-based SUVs became the darlings of driveways across America throughout the 1990s for their rugged go-anywhere personas.
Unfortunately rising gas prices and the economic collapse at the end of the millennium’s first decade sent sales into a downward spiral, with families instead choosing crossover models for their car-like demeanor and higher fuel economy ratings.
However, automakers are finally revamping their respective lines after years of dormancy and buyers are rediscovering big SUVs, only this time for all the right reasons. “What we used to see is a lot of ‘status symbol’ buying,” says Stephanie Brinley, an analyst with the research company IHS Automotive in Southfield, Mich. “People who buy large SUVs now actually buy them for the capabilities they can give them.”
Full-size SUVs can carry up to seven or eight passengers across three rows of seats in spacious comfort over the longest road trips with plenty of space left over for their belongings. With the two rearmost rows of seatbacks folded flat, the largest SUVs can accommodate full sheets of building materials or an entire yard’s worth of sod. Towing capacities are strong enough to pull a sizeable boat or trailer to the lake or campsite, and available four-wheel-drive systems typically include low-range gearing that enables rugged off-road prowess and the ability to plow their way out of the deepest snow drifts and mud ruts.
General Motors redesigned its full line of big SUVs this year as early 2015 models with stylish new exteriors, elegantly upgraded interiors and an infusion of the latest technology. These include the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon, and their “stretched” equivalents with added rear seat legroom and cargo space, the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL. All four come powered by a direct-injected 5.3-liter 355 horsepower V8 engine with active cylinder deactivation that runs on four cylinders while at cruising speeds to help save fuel. Each offers a maximum towing capacity of 8,500 pounds when properly equipped.
A bevy of new features include a sophisticated multimedia control system with text-messaging alerts and built-in 4G Internet connectivity. A front center-mounted airbag and many of the latest accident avoidance features are offered for added safety.
Meanwhile, the GMCs are offered in exclusive ultra-plush Denali versions that afford limousine-like accommodations, along with a stronger 6.2-liter V8 engine with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque.
Those looking to reach farther upscale can alternately choose the also-redesigned 2015 Cadillac Escalade with a flashy new look inside and out. Offered in standard and extended-length ESV models, the Escalade comes powered by the aforementioned 6.2-liter V8, and likewise offers a full assortment of comfort and safety gear. Also included is Cadillac’s Magnetic Ride Control that adjusts the stiffness of the shock absorbers in real time according to road and driving conditions to help maintain well-balanced ride and handling abilities.
Elsewhere in the segment, Ford refreshes its mammoth Expedition this fall with more refined styling, an upgraded interior, added features and a plush new Platinum series version at the top of the model range. Electric power steering and a new continuously controlled damping suspension promise improved ride and handling qualities.
But the big news for the 2015 Expedition is that it no longer comes powered by a thirsty V8 engine. Instead, it packs a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 engine that’s otherwise offered in the F-150 pickup truck. With 365 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque, the turbo-six beats the old V8 both in terms of power and fuel economy, with a maximum 9,200-pound towing capacity when properly equipped. Specs have yet to be finalized, but in the F-150 this powerplant is rated at a respectable 22 mpg in highway driving.