The 2017 Chevy Suburban is the ne plus ultra of SUVs; it'll tow up to 8,300 pounds and carry up to nine passengers without a fuss. The current Suburban is completely up to date, though. Revamped for the 2015 model year, it's sold in LS, LT, and Premier trims. In all of them, it's a towing and hauling champion, with extreme interior space to boot—and a big dose of connectivity for long road trips and on-site job needs. We rate it at 6.2 out of 10, with a nod toward its exceptional trailering talent and for its vast interior room.
Pros Unabashedly an SUV Much-improved cabin Excellent new V-8 drivetrain More safety and better infotainment features
Cons Very angular styling One powertrain fits all One of the biggest vehicles you can buy
The 2017 Chevrolet Suburban ranks 5 out of 6 Large SUVs. The Chevrolet Suburban offers an upscale cabin loaded with features, roomy seats, and one of the largest cargo capacities in the class. However, some competitors have a lower starting price, better crash test scores, and a higher towing capacity than the Suburban.
Pros Hushed, upscale interior Generous cargo room Cushioned ride
Cons Lower safety scores than some rivals Lower towing capacity than rivals
For 2017 the Chevrolet Suburban changes the name of its top trim level to Premier. New features for the lineup of Suburban models include automatic low-speed emergency braking paired with the existing forward collision warning system, a teen-driver location management system, and a reminder to check the backseats for child occupants before leaving the vehicle. Simple ventilated seats replace the former cooled seats, and the rear entertainment system has been updated.
Pros Seating for up to nine passengers Cargo capacity is generous High-quality interior adds some luxury Strong V8 engine is up to the task.
Cons Maneuvering in tight spaces is challenging High cargo floor means more effort to load objects Throttle response is sluggish Maximum passenger capacity is available only in the base model.
The 2017 Toyota Highlander ranks 3 out of 18 Midsize SUVs. With an unmatched list of standard advanced driver assistance features, the 2017 Toyota Highlander is one of the best values in the midsize SUV class. Its interior is high-end and comfortable, and there’s plenty of cargo space.
Pros Lots of standard active safety features Above-average fuel economy Comfortable and quiet on the highway
Cons Dull performance and handling Cramped third-row seat
The Toyota Highlander gets a stronger, more responsive powertrain for 2017, but the main strengths are the ride quality, the cabin refinement, and the space for eight. A somewhat more aggressive look, more power, an improved set of safety features, and a new sportier SE model highlight the changes Toyota is ushering in for its spacious crossover utility vehicle, the 2017 Highlander. The SE joins LE, LE Plus, XLE, Limited, and Limited Platinum models. The Highlander Hybrid is now also available in LE and XLE trims, in addition to the carry-over Limited and Limited Platinum.
Pros Wide range of powertrains Flexible second row Easy third-row access Good connectivity Cabin quality
Cons Design is soemwhat bland Base engine is under powered Somewhat busy dash design Hybrid only delivers if you drive gingerly
For 2017, the Highlander receives a number of significant midcycle changes. The styling has been updated, highlighted by a larger, more pronounced grille and redesigned LED taillights. The V6 engine is new, boasting more power and better fuel economy along with an eight-speed transmission and an automatic stop-start system. New feature content includes the Toyota Safety Sense technology suite, which comes standard on every trim level. There's also a new SE trim level that features uniquely sporty styling elements and a retuned suspension for sharper handling.
Pros Just-right exterior and interior size for many families Standard high-tech safety features Strong V6 engine with improved fuel economy Quiet and compliant ride
Cons Third-row seat isn't as roomy as those of many competitors Touchscreen and other controls may require an extra-long reach Undesirable base four-cylinder engine
