Forum Discussion

Explorer

Apr 05, 2016

We are considering a new tow vehicle.

We now have a 2005 Suburban 2500 w/Vortec 8100 496 cu in V8 (325 hp at 4200 rpm and 447 lb·ft of torque at 3200 rpm) and 4.11 axle ratio. It is rated to tow 12,500 lbs and our trailer is a Keystone Outback KRS 23' with the garage in front where we store an 800 lb. HD Road Glide. The trailer is 7500 lbs. loaded. The tongue weight is a little close to max due to the bike in front.

Our Suburban is almost pristine, very well taken care off and just had a new cam and lifters installed at 200K miles. Maybe it's time to get a newer tow vehicle, maybe not.

POSSIBILITIES:

2015/16 Ford Expedition w/3.5L EcoBoost® V6 - 365 @ 5,000 420 lb torque @ 2,250 - tow capacity 9200 lbs

2015/16 Chevy Tahoe w/EcoTec3 5.3L V8 - 355 hp 383 lb torque - tow capacity 8600 lbs. w/3.42 axle ratio

2015/16 Yukon Denali w/6.2L V8 - 440 hp 420 lbs torque - tow capacity 8400 lbs.

QUESTIONS:

What will the towing experience be with any of these new vehicles compared to our "old" Suburban? The tow ratings are much lower but there is 10 years of newer technology to consider.

How can they get that much torque/tow capacity from the Ford? It seems like a less substantial vehicle although I haven't checked the weight.

Why does the Yukon Denali have less tow capacity than the Tahoe? I believe the axle ratio is higher but the engine is larger ...?

Tow Vehicles

23 Replies

Sprink-Fitter
Explorer
Apr 05, 2016
If the tongue weight is close to max on a 2500 suburban wouldn't it be over on anyone on the list you have?
Fast_Mopar
Explorer
Apr 05, 2016
curtbaker wrote:

POSSIBILITIES:

2015/16 Ford Expedition w/3.5L EcoBoost® V6 - 365 @ 5,000 420 lb torque @ 2,250 - tow capacity 9200 lbs

2015/16 Chevy Tahoe w/EcoTec3 5.3L V8 - 355 hp 383 lb torque - tow capacity 8600 lbs. w/3.42 axle ratio

2015/16 Yukon Denali w/6.2L V8 - 440 hp 420 lbs torque - tow capacity 8400 lbs.

In my opinion, from the list above, the Ford Expedition is the best choice, but only the long wheelbase EL version. Stay away from the short version and stay away from the short GM's like the Tahoe - get the Suburban or Yukon XL if you go GM. Regardless, with that Harley in the front, I think your tongue will be too heavy. I looked at a 2016 Expedition EL last month, and the payload was approximately 1360 lb.
alexleblanc
Explorer
Apr 05, 2016
power wise the Ecoboost and 6.2 GM will be on par if not slightly better than your current rig with better FE, the chassis however on both options you've listed are really a 1/2 tons so payload may be an issue. You may also find the suspension on both models to be a lot softer than your current rig.

All that being said I think that for that weight and length of trailer an Expedition (long wheelbase) or Yukon XL with the 6.2 would most likely do the job once upgraded with a set of airbags and LT tires - just watch your payload.

I myself and somewhat Bias towards the Ford simply because of the Ecoboosts Big block / Diesel like torque curve, while towing it really shines.

I'd stay away from the 5.3, its not in the same class as the 3.5 EB or 6.2, frankly with 7500lbs in tow, you'll find it gutless.