2011 AutoPacific Ideal Vehicle Awards: Large SUV

AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Awards (IVA) are based on 73,000 surveys completed by owners of new cars and light trucks in the United States in the first half of 2011.

Large SUVs offer strong utility, off-road prowess, and towing capability due to their Large Pickup roots under the skin.  These vehicles are not known for good gas mileage and have declined in sales over the years.  For the buyer who has a large family and something to tow, they do make a fine choice.

This year's AutoPacific IVA Large SUV winner is the 2011 Toyota Sequoia.

Read on to see the entire list of category candidates and how they scored.

*NOTE: Results for 2010 Model Year Vehicles are Included in the 2011 Model Year Research Because of Availability. Scores Are Shown Where Sample Sizes Allow

#1 Large SUV: 2011 Toyota Sequoia

Rank: #1

Score: 1263

The 2011 Toyota Sequoia is the top ranked Large SUV based on ratings by its owners in AutoPacific’s 2011 Ideal Vehicle Research. Sequoia owners identify little significant that needs to be changed, but 30% want more infotainment technology, 25% want more cargo room, and 20% want better visibility and more daring styling.  Sequoia owners most like seat comfort, ride comfort and size. Sequoia noses out the Ford Expedition for top spot. 

#2 Large SUV: 2011 Ford Expedition EL

Rank: #2

Score: 1260

After Ford did away with the Super Duty-based Excursion, it introduced a long-wheelbase version of the Ford Expedition called the Expedition EL. Unlike the Excursion, no diesel engine is offered in the 2011 Ford Expedition EL, but it does provide more cargo volume and fuel capacity than a standard Expedition.

#3 Large SUV: 2011 GMC Yukon XL

Rank: #3

Score: 1251

The 2011 GMC Yukon XL 1500 adds plenty of cargo space to the Yukon’s passenger space and towing abilities. Unlike the shorter GMC Yukon, the Yukon XL is available in a three-quarter ton configuration for a higher towing capacity, and half-ton model is also available with the added styling and luxury of the Denali trim level.

#4 Large SUV: 2011 Ford Expedition

Rank# 4

Score: 1225

The 2011 Ford Expedition is essentially a three-row version of the popular F-150 pickup truck with plenty of passenger, cargo and towing capacities. The full-size Expedition is available with Ford’s latest technology like MyKey and Sync, and luxury buyers should be sure to check out the top Expedition King Ranch model.

#5 Large SUV: 2011 GMC Yukon

Rank: #5

Score: 1208

GMC’s line-up has grown over the years with new crossovers, but the 2011 GMC Yukon continues to be one of the top truck-based SUVs on the market. Aside from the long-wheelbase Yukon XL, the Yukon is available with a hybrid-electric powertrain, but this SUV can also be fully loaded with the Denalitrim package.

#6 Large SUV: 2011 Nissan Armada

Rank: #6

Score: 1197

Based off the Titan pickup truck, the 2011 Nissan Armada comes with a powerful V-8 and a tow rating of up to 9,000 pounds. More luxurious buyers can choose from the Armada Platinum which adds a leather interior, 20-inch wheels and plenty of standard cabin technology. The Armada also comes with the added benefit of E85 flex fuel capability.

#7 Large SUV: 2011 Chevrolet Suburban

Rank: #7

Score: 1192

The Chevrolet Suburban is the oldest nameplate in the automotive industry, and it is also one of the best vehicles on the market for hauling cargo and passengers as well as providing plenty of towing capacity. Unlike the shorter Chevy Tahoe, the 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is available in a three-quarter ton configuration for a higher towing capacity.

#8 Large SUV: 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe

Rank: #8

Score: 1156

The Chevrolet Tahoe was the originator of this shortened-wheelbase SUV design when it was introduced in the mid 1990s. Since then, almost all automakers have matched the Tahoe’s size and purpose, but the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe continues to be a distinguishable full-size SUV thanks to available models like the Tahoe Hybrid and the rugged Tahoe Z71.