When you try to imagine the best and latest rivalry for the most iconic American brands in the SUV category, the 2020 Ford Expedition vs 2020 Chevy Tahoe match-up might automatically come to mind. Sure, many full-size vehicles packed with a stylish design, state-of-the-art technology for safety, and practical features are already in the market. However, these classic brands, Ford and Chevrolet, are two of the most recognized car companies not only in America, but for the rest of the world, and for excellent reasons. So, if you are really into SUVs, these featured models are two of the best options to take into serious consideration.
Car owners and car enthusiasts have two very different preferences. Most of them figured out which has the best balance between performance and competitive price for their needs and budgets. So, the purpose of this comparison today is to give you the most unbiased possible comparison to find which of them makes you feel more excited.
The Pricing and Warranty Comparison
Generally, full-sized SUVs are expected to have higher price tags. However, both brands offer different models, as well as incentives to accommodate the prospective buyer’s budget. The 2020 Ford Expedition has an MSRP of $52,810 for the XLT base model. On the other hand, the 2020 Chevy Tahoe’s lowest MSRP starts at $50,295 for the 2WD LS base model.
The most expensive Ford Expedition model, the Platinum MAX, has a starting MSRP of $76,965. For the Tahoe, the most costly is the 4WD Premier with a 6.2-liter engine that comes at a starting MSRP of $72,520. Take note that these are the basic prices without the deduction from incentives. Also, additional fees from taxes, deliveries, finance charges, dealer processing charge, and request for optional accessories are not part of the MSRP.
With a slight difference in full details of their respective warranties for the same terms, both brands offer bumper-to-bumper and road assistance warranties. The bumper-to-bumper offers free defect repairs either for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Then, the road assistance, either for five years or 60,000 miles, whichever comes first, the drivers are ensured that they can contact their dealers with free towing, changing of flat tires, and fuel delivery.
With all the stated prices and warranties, it would be fair enough to say that Chevrolet wins the battle of the MSRPs. However, cheaper might not mean economically wiser options as there are still other critical considerations. Keep in mind that the 2020 Ford Expedition vs the 2020 Chevy Tahoe match-up is not yet done.
How About the Exterior Size and Design?
Even the most clueless enthusiasts know how to rate a car based on its exterior design. Fair enough, both brands have well-thought outside aesthetic appearances. The Expedition has two available sizes: the standard model with a total length of 210 inches and the longer MAX model with 221.9 inches full length. The Chevy Tahoe, on the other hand, only has one available size at 204 inches in length. Having a longer wheelbase, the Expedition has more space in the third row of seats compared to the Tahoe. While having the same height of 74.4 inches, the Ford version is longer and wider than the Chevy counterpart.
Aesthetically, both have the boxy looks, which matches their off-road capabilities. Especially for higher trims, both have the eye-catching classy styles. Just to note: The 2020 Ford Expedition models from lowest to highest are XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum, while the 2020 Chevy Tahoe models are LS, LT, and Premiere.
Comparison of the Interiors’ Overall Space and Style
SUVs were intentionally built in boxy designs not only for imposing style, but also to maximize space. Based on exterior size comparisons, we can conclude that the vehicle will likewise have a bigger interior space. In that respect, the Expedition can fit more people and personal things with 121.5 cu.ft. than the Tahoe can with 94.7 cu.ft. of cargo space. Also, having more legroom to sit comfortably, the Expedition is more ideal for long rides and family road trips.
For the aesthetic and practical design, both have the so-called panoramic sunroof to let the natural light in that could also open to experience open-air driving. The Expedition features a carpeted floor, carpeted first-and-second-row floor mats, overhead console with sunglass holder and conversation mirror, center console-armrest, large storage bin, and beverage holders. The Tahoe features a hidden lockable storage compartment, leather-wrapped steering wheel, and acoustic-laminated windshield, and inlaid seats with premium stitching.
Technology-wise, both the 2020 Ford Expedition and the 2020 Chevy Tahoe offer astounding entertainment systems using Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to play music, listen to audiobooks, and podcasts, as well as tuning in to radio stations. Also, both SUVs have a 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot for continuous internet connection. The Expedition has voice command technology, while the Chevy Tahoe can be connected to Alexa. Without needing to take on too many details, generally, both have seemingly similar and equal entertainment technology to keep the road trip more convenient and fun.
Looking at the Numbers for Engine Power
These two heavyweight contenders both come standard with rear-wheel drive and have an optional upgrade to four-wheel drive to increase the power. The Expedition is powered with a 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine that produces 375 hp, or 400 hp on the Platinum trim, and 470 lb-ft of torque, or 480 lb-ft of torque with the Platinum trim. It is also capable of towing a maximum weight of 9,300 pounds.
On the other hand, the Tahoe has two variations for the EcoTec3 V8 engine. The 5.3-liter version offers up 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque with the capability of towing a maximum weight of 8,600 pounds. And the 6.2-liter version has a rate of 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque and is capable of towing a maximum weight of 8,400 pounds.
Looking at the numbers, the Expedition’s engine power is superior to that of the Tahoe. Also, besides having a more powerful engine, the Expedition has better fuel capacity compared to the Tahoe’s 5.3-liter engine. Even with the Tahoe’s upgraded 6.2-liter engine, it has a little bit more horsepower, but still a little bit less torque. The Expedition also beats the Tahoe in maximum towing weight capacity. Additionally, the Expedition comes with an independent rear suspension for larger cargo space compared to the Tahoe’s old-school type of solid rear axle. Overall, the Expedition is just a better performing vehicle.
The Safety Features
Both the 2020 Ford Expedition and the 2020 Chevy Tahoe have the features adhering to the basic safety industry protocols. However, the Tahoe seems a little behind, having a standard rearview camera, rear parking sensors, and not much else. On the other side of things, the Expedition has all of the features the Tahoe does, adding in auto high-beam headlamps, pre-collision assist with automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go. So, the Tahoe falls behind again.
2020 Ford Expedition vs 2020 Chevy Tahoe
All-in-all, even though the 2020 Chevy Tahor has a lower MSRP compared to the 2020 Ford Expedition, it is the Expedition that has more competitive features and advantages. So, with all of that, the Expedition is the superior vehicle. And, as the next model year begins, another exciting match-up between two of the most iconic American automobile brands is going to emerge. We can’t wait.
