Chevrolet Suburban

If you need space for seven or more people, all their stuff, and towing capacity to boot, few SUVs other than the Suburban will do. This behemoth has a sumptuous and quiet interior, power-folding second- and third-row seats, and available blind-spot monitoring and cross-traffic alert. Beyond that, it's pretty much your standard hauler, with a 5.3-liter V8 mated to a six-speed automatic and a respectable 16 mpg overall. The touch-screen infotainment system is easy to use, and the magnetic ride suspension on LTZ trims improves ride comfort and handling response and capability. Recent updates include available lane-keeping assist, plus Apple CarPlay. Reliability has been well below average.

The 2015 redesign brought a sumptuous and quiet interior, power folding second- and third row seats, as well as optional advanced safety features. It's also more fuel-efficient than previous models. Cabin finish and in-dash electronics are much improved. The interior is considerably quieter too. LT and LTZ models include standard forward-collision and lane-departure warning systems. We'd also get the optional blind-spot monitoring system, which is helpful for keeping track of flanking vehicles. If your budget allows, get the LTZ version because the available Magnetic Ride Control package significantly improves emergency handling, as well as ride quality. Changes for 2016 include available Apple CarPlay capability, a heads-up display and lane-keeping assist.

More agility, better steering and brakes, along with a more efficient six-speed automatic transmission arrived with the 2007 redesign. The interior was also significantly upgraded, but the third-row seats lack thigh support and don't fold into the floor, as some competitors' did by then. The full-time four-wheel-drive system is a plus.

An immensely capable offering, GM's largest SUV can seat up to nine people, haul massive loads, or tow big trailers. Sharing its basic platform with GM's pickups, power comes from a strong-but-thirsty 5.3-liter V8. Ride, handling and braking are much improved over its predecessor, but parking is awkward and fuel economy, as you might imagine, is on the poor side.