Overview & Reviews

One of the longest-running models sold in the United States, the Chevrolet Suburban debuted back in 1936. After serving faithfully for many evolutionary years as a truck primarily meant for commercial or rural use, the extra-large Suburban has increasingly become the go-to choice for families or those in need of class-leading passenger and cargo capacity, third-row seating and solid truck-based towing capability.

With stout underpinnings, strong powertrains, a comfortable ride and spacious seating for up to nine plus their cargo, the current truck is a very capable large SUV. A short list of competitive sport-utilities may offer more refinement and ultra-lux conveniences for more bucks, but the big Suburban (as well as its GMC equivalent, the Yukon XL) remains the only full-size SUV available in both light- (1500) and heavy-duty (2500) versions. It certainly comes recommended, and older models are also good choices for consumers desiring a used SUV.

Current Chevrolet Suburban
The Chevrolet Suburban full-size SUV is available in three well-equipped trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ. All are powered by V8s. Standard on the Suburban 1500 is a 5.3-liter unit making 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. The 2500 gets a 6.0-liter V8 packing 352 horses and 382 lb-ft. Both are matched to a smooth and cooperative six-speed automatic transmission. A choice of two- or four-wheel drive is yours either way, and towing capacities can approach 10,000 pounds.

For such a big truck, the Chevrolet Suburban is relatively quick. However, the base V8 Suburban doesn't always feel so quick when carrying a full load of passengers or cargo. The suspension system is impressive, though, and provides composed handling and a smooth ride. The Suburban isn't exactly nimble around corners, but the cabin is quiet at speed and the ride is always comfortably controlled. When pointed straight down an interstate or out in the wide-open spaces, there aren't many better, more capable cruisers than the Chevrolet Suburban. Overall, it's a compelling choice for SUV shoppers with lots of people- or gear-hauling needs.

Used Chevrolet Suburban Models
The present-generation Chevrolet Suburban debuted for the 2007 model year. Compared to the previous Suburban, this version rides on an updated chassis that provides all of its prior strength along with a more comfortable ride and improved handling, performance and efficiency. These Suburbans also boast safety advancements like front seat side airbags, stability control and side curtain airbags for all three rows.

Originally, the 5.3-liter V8 was standard only on the LS and 1LT, and it produced 310 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque. The 6.2-liter V8 was standard on the 2LT and LTZ models at this time as well, but it featured a slightly lower output (366 hp, 376 lb-ft) than the 2500 version, which has remained unchanged. For 2010, the 5.3-liter became standard on every 1500 and adopted its current output. Another key difference is the standard four-speed automatic transmission on hand prior to 2008 on the 2500 and '09 for the 1500.

The previous-generation Suburban that debuted for the 2000 model year and lasted through 2006 was packaged more efficiently than before -- and although increasingly outclassed by newer competitors in its later years, its warehouse-sized interior made it an easy pick for families and home remodelers who truly needed to max out passenger and cargo space. Interior materials and fit and finish were merely adequate, however, and the exterior design was beginning to look a tad dated. Plus, it was still a brick aerodynamically.

It was slightly shorter than its predecessor, as earlier Chevrolet Suburban models shared much of their styling and powertrains with the GM full-size pickups on which they were based. Several trim levels and a couple modest V8s were available initially, but by 2001 the two "small-block" engines were up to 285 and 320 hp, and were still outpaced by an available new 8.1-liter V8 with 340 hp and 455 lb-ft of stump-pulling torque.

The Chevy Suburban inched further up the comfort scale as the years went by, but the big news for 2003 was the availability of an innovative Quadrasteer four-wheel-steering system on 3/4-ton models -- reducing the turning circle by a substantial 8 feet and also improving towing stability. The cabin was now more accommodating, too, with numerous improvements like tri-zone climate controls and available DVD entertainment, second-row captain's chairs and power-adjustable pedals. Updates including OnStar, steering-wheel audio controls and tire-pressure monitoring carried the big Chevy through 2006.

Previous to this, there was the Suburban from 1992-'99. After a long, enduring model run by the previous generation that extended from 1973-'91, the then-new '92 Chevrolet Suburban finally adopted the sleek body design and freshened interiors of its previously updated pickup truck siblings. In addition to handsome new looks, the completely redesigned next-generation Suburban boasted more glass area and a lower step-in height than its predecessor.

After a few years of detail improvements, redesigned seats and a new modular dashboard graced the Suburban's interior in 1995, and a year later daytime running lamps marked the adoption of several powerful new Vortec gasoline engines ranging up to 290 hp. For off-roaders, four-wheel-drive models substituted a modern independent front suspension and more convenient Insta-Trac electronic shift-on-the-fly transfer case. In 1998, four-wheel-drive operation was enhanced again with an optional AutoTrac automatic full-time 4WD system for set-it-and-forget-it convenience.

User Reviews:

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  1999 Chevrolet Suburban - 1999 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Sarah - July 16 - 9:37 pm

  Needing a larger vehicle to accomodate my large family I went from a minivan to the 99 Suburban. It has proved reliable and easy to maintain. However, the downside is the rising gas prices, but it isnt that bad considering I knew entering the vehicle it was going to be more pricey to operate. I like all of the room for the kids. Where the minivan was just too small, now everyone is comfortable and there is enough space in the back for groceries etc. I have had no major problems other than normal wear and tear type expenses and I strongly recommend this vehicle.

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  Still a great truck - 1993 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Bullwinkle - July 13 - 12:12 am

  I bought used with 114,000 miles. Only major repair was the transmission replaced at no cost (previous owner had replaced it shortly before.) I drive it about 12,000 miles/year and its very cheap to drive. I fix a few things on it each year, but its much cheaper than my other cars (used Hondas which I finally gave up on.) Gas mileage is about 14 mpg which is great considering its mostly around town. Still get 17-18 mpg on long trips, even with 199,000 miles on it, and it runs great. Im 65" tall and can stretch my legs fully out while driving. Its like driving my couch. Finally with a 43 gallon tank, the range is incredible. My best is 720 miles on one tank (Jacksonville, FL to northern VA)

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  Excellent Car - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By lemursrule - July 9 - 11:27 pm

  When we purchased the vehicle in 2001, we were told that it was used as a program car. If it was displayed in public, then it must be good. This vehicle is well built and tough. A monster 8.1 V8 engine leaves nothing to be desired. The ride and suspension is excellent, and road noise is little to nothing. I would definitely purchase another Suburban. The depreciation is excellent, and the model is one of the most wanted SUV models in existence. It also is fun to drive and comfort is excellent!!

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  Happy man - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By NY suburbanite - July 5 - 1:49 pm

  This is a great truck. I read reviews about "bad fuel economy". Remember this is a big truck and for its engine and vehicle size, its good on gas. I had an Explorer which was a lot worse. Over all this is a great vehicle. Its very comfortable, and handles great. Im a Suburban man for life.

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  Fuel pump failure - 2000 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Noillinator - July 5 - 12:07 pm

  I have 60,000 miles on this truck and the fuel pump failed. The service center said they see this a lot and that you have to keep 1/4 tank of gas to keep the pump cool. That is nonsense if you ask me. I am glad I wasnt driving this vehicle when the pump went out. That could have been bad. This was a potential death trap. The interior isnt as nice as my 1996. They really cheapened the seat. The rear radio contriol cant take abuse. I had to replace this when I bought it. I used to be a supplier to GM and cant believe the abuse they gave me regarding my parts. I guess the best I can do is head a warning to GM that this is my last GM car.

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  Gotta love a big SUV - 1993 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Jared Packer - June 30 - 6:59 am

  i absolutly love my Suburban! It has handled everything I could throw at it from mudding (its a 2wd) to looking cool at the local burger joint! When I first got my Burb, I was wanting to get a Chevy C1500 extended cab truck, but after an hour of driving my Suburban, I was so glad I didnt!

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  Best SUV for your money - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Melissa - June 29 - 6:05 pm

  My Suburban has great power when I need it. It is as comfortable as a car, and has lots of room inside. It has been extremely dependable. I have not had any problems with it. I plan on keeping it for a long time. I would not drive any other SUV. Its solid and you feel very safe in it.

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  Trouble in paradise. - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Duane - June 29 - 5:52 pm

  Purchased a 2001 2500-LT Suburban "GM Certified Used Vehicle" in August, 04 with ~58K miles. In the first 9 months of ownership, weve had multiple major repairs, including: exhaust (which we came to find is a dealer only part. No aftermarket muffler for the 2500 series. Major dollars) Side mirror fell off. Window regulator failed. Rear cooling lines ruptured. Complete brake job with rotors. Fuel pump failed. Broken radio antenna. Brake booster replaced. Tail lights failed Transmission lines replaced. Front U roints replaced. Regreased the rear passenger door straps twice. Leaking fuel line. Fortunately, we purchased the used car warranty, as its paid for itself twice over.

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  Great Z71 - 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Rbredemeyer - June 27 - 12:17 am

  This is my fifth Z71 Suburban. It is a great vehicle. The only thing that would make it better would be to use the 6.0 liter engine for a bit more towing power.

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  The Ultimate Family Transport - 2004 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Ron - June 23 - 4:53 pm

  I was never a proponent of the "BIG SUV", but needed the room and comfort for our family of 5 making monthly trips between Long Island and Boston. Excellent handling, great drivability, roomy, comfortable, quiet, real 3rd row seating, excellent cargo capacity, did I mention roomy? And surprisingly easy to park. It doesnt get much better than this for family transportation. GM has a real winner in the Suburban - keep it up!