Ford Expedition vs Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe presented a variety of distinctive versions, each with unique aesthetic elements that set them apart. The Tahoe LS and LT featured differing grille patterns, while the sporty RST boasted a slotted grille, a blacked-out look, and 22-inch wheels. The rugged Z71 combined the LS trim's grille with a blacked-out facade, a redesigned front end optimized for off-roading, red tow hooks, a skid plate, and unique 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires. The upscale Premier mirrored the RST's slotted grille with added chrome accents and polished wheels. High Country exuded luxury with a chrome bar grille, sizeable 22-inch wheels with a bright finish, and body-color mirror caps. LED headlights tucked into the upper corners and LED running lights similar to the Silverado underscored its striking design. At the rear, expressive taillights and quad-outlet dual exhausts added a modern flair. The 2022 Ford Expedition, however, received notable exterior updates, including a fresh grille, headlights, and bumper, along with revised taillights and tailgate trim. The redesigned wheels across the lineup and the addition of the off-road-focused Timberline trim, featuring standard 4WD and sophisticated off-roading capabilities, enhanced its rugged appeal. The Stealth Edition Package, which included black 22-inch wheels and extensive blacked-out exterior trim, provided a sportier look. Notably, the test vehicle in Stone Blue Metallic attracted positive attention, showcasing its stylish design.

For the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe, buyers had the choice between three engines: a standard 5.3-liter V8 delivering 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.2-liter V8 exclusive to the High Country, with 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. A forthcoming turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel engine was set to offer 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, promising better fuel efficiency. The Tahoe’s 10-speed automatic transmission powered its rear wheels, with an optional 4WD system. The test vehicle, a Tahoe Z71, excelled on and off the road, especially with adaptive and air suspension upgrades. Despite its large size, the Tahoe handled well, delivering a smooth, planted ride. The 2022 Ford Expedition relied on a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6, producing 380 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The V6’s power was addictive, with a signature exhaust sound that provided a pleasing driving experience. However, the Stealth Edition’s sport-tuned suspension resulted in a harsher ride quality, particularly due to its 22-inch wheels and low-profile tires.

The introduction of an independent rear suspension in the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe significantly improved passenger comfort and cargo space. With all three rows providing comfortable seating, adult passengers could fit comfortably even in the third row. The test vehicle featured power-adjustable heated front seats and an innovative power sliding storage console. The second-row offered either a bench or captain’s chairs, and the third-row was more accessible and spacious than before. The Tahoe provided 25.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 72.6 cubic feet with the seats down, and a maximum of 122.9 cubic feet, surpassing most rivals. The 2022 Ford Expedition excelled in comfort, with spacious seating in all rows and easy entry thanks to available power running boards. The test vehicle's front seats were heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable, with a heated steering wheel. Captains' chairs in the second row offered ample legroom and individual climate controls. The third-row offered outstanding leg support and amenities like power recline and USB ports. Cargo space behind the third row was 19.3 cubic feet, which expanded to 57.5 cubic feet when folded and a maximum of 104.6 cubic feet. The extended-length Expedition Max provided even more cargo capacity.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe came equipped with a standard 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, voice recognition, and Chevrolet Connected Services. Navigation and Bose premium audio systems were available upgrades. The infotainment system, reminiscent of a tablet computer, was generally user-friendly but had some inconveniently placed controls. The voice-recognition system was notably responsive. The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the latest Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with touchscreen sizes ranging from 12 to 15.5 inches. Both systems supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and natural voice recognition. Sync 4A offered advanced features like driver profiles and an adaptive dash card interface. The test vehicle included a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system, though it had occasional quirks. Upgraded dual-touchscreen rear-seat entertainment and Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 were also available.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe's standard safety features included Teen Driver, a rear-seat reminder, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, and low-speed automatic emergency braking. Higher trims offered lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, blind-spot warning, and adaptive cruise control. Premier and High Country trims included additional high-speed automatic braking and a Safety Alert Seat. During testing, the driving-assistance features worked as expected, with minimal false alerts. The 2022 Ford Expedition grouped its safety features into Co-Pilot360 packages, including standard forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and intersection assist. Co-Pilot 2.0 added features like a surround-view camera and Active Park Assist. The evaluation revealed some issues with lane-centering tech in heavy traffic and winding roads. New Road Edge Detection and optional BlueCruise hands-free driving technology were also highlighted.