If you’re looking for something big to haul your items around, there are plenty of options besides pickup trucks. A full-size SUV offers a wide range of features to enhance your traveling needs, but cargo space is one of the top ones. However, not all storage areas are made the same. Can you really trust the manufacturer’s specs on something as essential as your cargo? Which large SUV has the space behind the backseat you need? Let’s take a look.

Is having lots of space behind the backseat a necessary feature?

While lots of space is unnecessary for all vehicle owners, it’s a make-or-break deal with some drivers. The ability to haul groceries, suitcases, or camping gear will make traveling much easier, especially if you’re hauling a family. So you must get the amount of space you’re paying to get. 

However, sometimes what an automaker says the car has isn’t exactly true. This is due to a few different reasons. You might be dealing with curved panels inside, which could limit the space you can use for storage. There might also be discrepancies due to a liftgate or hatchback door, where you’ll still need a certain amount of empty space to close the door.

One site is diligently testing out many sizes and types of vehicles to measure, according to its own methodology, how much space you actually get with your SUV or car. Here, we look at only the full-size SUVs.

Which full-size SUV offers more space behind the backseat?

Out of all the full-size SUV models tested by Cars.com, only one offers more space than its rivals. It should be no surprise that it’s the Chevy Suburban because it’s known for having plentiful interior space, to begin with.

Using the site’s measuring methodology, the editors determined that you get 23.0 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats. With the third-row bench folded down, it increases to 41.8 cubic feet of cargo storage. That’s almost 20 more cubic feet than the Nissan Armada offered in Cars.com’s tests. The closest rival is the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, with only 2.9 fewer cubic feet. 

The site explains that the reviewers’ system is different than what you find with the manufacturers. Cars measure up to the top of the seatbacks (minus the head restraints) because the editors don’t feel that anything above that marker is usable space when it comes to hauling items, which is one of the reasons you get a significant difference in cargo storage measurements.

What else can you expect with the 2022 Chevy Suburban?

Under the hood of the 2022 Chevy Suburban, you’ll find a few powerhouse engines. Standard on most trims is the 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 355 hp. As for gas mileage, you can expect 16/20 mpg city/highway with the rear-wheel drivetrain and 15/19 mpg city/highway for the four-wheel drive version.

You’ll get a 6.2-liter V8 generating 420 hp for the High Country model s standard equipment. It’s available on some of the other models for more money. Optional on most trims is a 3-liter turbo-diesel Duramax, which is good for 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. When it comes to fuel economy, you get 21 in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, according to U.S. News. 

To maximize hauling capability, the Suburban offers anywhere from 7,400 to 8,300 lbs of towing capacity, depending on which trim and engine you choose. Opt for the Max trailering package if you want to enhance your towing abilities with your purchase, 

Safety features include forward automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, rear seat alert, a teen driver system, a rearview camera with hitch guidance added, and forward collision warning with pedestrian detection. You’ll also get a 10.2-inch display screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, WiFi hotspot, remote start, and the ability to haul nine passengers, at least on the base model. 

Chevy Suburban is a well-rounded vehicle with many features, but you’ll most likely get a decent amount of usable space for cargo. The Suburban is the only way to go if you’re looking for a full-size SUV.