2025 Chevrolet Tahoe vs. Suburban: Which Full-Size SUV is Right for You?

Chevrolet offers two full-size SUVs, but what are the differences between the Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban? Let’s explore.

The Suburban name dates to the 1930s, making it the longest-running nameplate in the entire automotive industry. The Tahoe might not date back nearly as far, but it fills a need in the full-size SUV market as well. Both of these large Chevrolet SUVs are great for family hauling and towing, but which one should you drive and enjoy? Let’s see if we can highlight the differences between the Chevrolet Suburban and Chevrolet Tahoe.

One is bigger than the other

Some have heard the saying “bigger is better” but that’s not always the case. That said, If you want to maximize cargo space and passenger comfort, the Suburban is hard to beat. This big brute provides you with up to 144.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. There’s also 41.5 cubic feet of space behind the third row, which is much more than you’ll find in many SUVs.

The Tahoe isn’t a slouch but doesn’t achieve the same cargo-carrying figures of its larger sibling. If you choose the Tahoe, you’ll have up to 122.9 cubic feet of cargo space with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row.

Chevrolet Tahoe Pros and Cons

Pros

• Simple infotainment setup – easy-to-use and manage
• Excellent safety features – automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, automatic high beams
• Second row can accommodate three car seats
• Second row ceiling vents

Cons

• Second row has a 60/40 split bench – three independent seats can be better
• No sun shades
• Small rear cargo area compared to Suburban
• Feels smaller in the second and third rows than the Expedition
• Third-row seats down have lower anchors
• Third-row access is a Flip & Fold system, which isn’t car-seat friendly

New features for 2025

• Proximity key automatic trunk opening
• Super Cruise technology in more trims
• Panoramic sunroof and ceiling vents expand to the third row

Chevrolet Suburban Pros and Cons

Pros

• Largest full-size SUVs available
• Incredible rear cargo space
• Second and third-row ceiling vents
• Tether anchors in all seats

Cons

• Gas mileage is terrible
• No sun shades
• No lower anchors in the third row
• No middle head restrain in third row
• Third-row access is a Flip & Fold system which isn’t car-seat friendly

New features for 2025

• Gorgeous refreshed exterior, something unique for each trim
• Automatic trunk opening function
• Updated infotainment system
• Redesigned center console with USB-A and USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad

Similar power for these SUVs

Sometimes, comparing vehicles that are extremely similar can be helpful. The Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban are basically the same vehicle with the Suburban measuring 15 inches longer, which provides more cargo space for your stuff. Both of these Chevy SUVs use the same three powertrains to give you the desired driving experience.

The base engine for both SUVs is a 5.3-liter V8 that has been around for a long time. This engine still produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, which is more than enough for most drivers. If you want more horsepower and a gas engine, there’s a 6.2-liter V8 that delivers 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque to give you added power for your drive. The third is a 3.0-liter turbocharged diesel 6-cylinder engine from Duramax that makes 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque.

All three engines utilize a 10-speed automatic transmission to send power to either the rear wheels or all four, depending on the layout chosen.

How much can they tow?

You might think more power means better towing, but that’s not the case. The Tahoe can tow up to 8,400 pounds, but it must be equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 and RWD. If you choose the bigger V8 engine, this figure drops to 8,300 pounds, and the diesel causes another decline of 100 pounds to 8,200 pounds of towing.

If you choose the Suburban, take 100 pounds off each figure for each engine from the Tahoe, and you’ll get the tow ratings for the Suburban.

Which Chevy full-size SUV is right for you?

Should you drive the 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe or Suburban? If you want to maximize cargo room and don’t mind paying a little more for the vehicle or having lower gas mileage figures, the Suburban is the right choice for you. However, if you want to spend a little less for the vehicle and are fine with the Tahoe’s lower cargo room, the smaller full-size SUV could be the one you want to drive.