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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  Bigger and Better - 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Tracy Scott - March 9 - 4:05 pm

  I traded in a Tahoe, so I am more than familiar with the Chevy line. I have 5 children, so this type of car is a must for me. I love the vehicle and the ride is smooth and quiet, and powerful, even with the "smaller" engine. I am pleased with the vehicle and plan to keep it for at least 2-3 years. Taking our first long trip in it this weekend. It can be difficult to park due to its size, even for experienced SUV drivers like me.

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  My Suburban - 1999 Chevrolet Suburban
  By D. Lewis - February 28 - 7:15 pm

  What a great ride for long trips! Many trips across the states (sometimes towing a trailer) made for a smooth reliable ride. My only complaint is how the light bulbs burn out so easily in the dash and in particular the radio (Ive seen this problem on numerous Chevy/GMC trucks/SUVs) Upgrading my shocks to Rancho 5000s made the ride smooth/predicable and better for towing.

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  I Took the Plunge - 2007 Chevrolet Suburban LTZ - 2007 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Cassandra Campbell - February 28 - 3:04 am

  This vehicle is 10 years old and had 219,000 miles on it when I purchased it. However, who ever owned it prior took great care of it and with the CarFax, I noted that they maintained the vehicle and no accidents. The interior was in excellent condition and very clean. I have had to replace the driver side door handle, the passenger side mirror and the TPMS sensors but other than that, this SUV rides well and handles great. I will say that having 20 inch rims you do feel bumps in the road, but that is just to be expected with any car with large rims. Again a 10 year old car so there are a few nicks in the paint on the hood but I couldnt be more please with my purchase. I did replace the OEM radio. I couldnt justify $180 to upgrade to the latest navigation maps when I could buy an android head unit and keep updated maps for free. I will say that this beast doesnt see to like passing a gas station. But that is to be expected going from a 1997 Chevy Suburban LT with a 39 gallon tank to this with a 31 gallon tank. I think I will adjust to it.

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  Just getting better with time - 1994 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Lowrider - February 26 - 4:20 pm

  I purposely looked for a 2 wheel drive Suburban and was fortunate enough to find this one. The previous owner kept it in immaculate condition and repair....I purchased it for $6000 and was very happy to purchase at that price. Ive used it to move my daughter, my mother, my nephews, and friends. Ive trailered Harleys to several events and this truck just kepts getting better with time. I currently have 142,000 miles on it. On the road towing at 65-75 I get 13-15 mpg, without towing 15-17 mpg. Around town 13mpg is about norm. Ive thought of purchasing a newer model, but everytime I take a ride, that thought quickly leaves. Once you own one, watch out, Very Habit forming!

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  Very roomy-lots of rattles & problems - 1999 Chevrolet Suburban
  By 99LT - February 25 - 8:08 pm

  This is a great SUV for long road trips. Very roomy and can hold lots of cargo. Other than that, it is not a good choice in my opinion. Plan on spending much time and money at the local mechanic. Also plan on having many rattles, squeaks and wind noise. Purchased a used Suburban rather than new to avoid having a car payment but quarterly repairs have made this vehicle almost as expensive as a new Suburban. I would recommend the new body style if you must purchase a Suburban. I would not recommend this vehicle to anyone and do not plan on buying another Suburban in the future... which is too bad because I have been told the new models are much better.

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  Perfect SUV - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By nah - February 21 - 11:19 am

  This is a perfect SUV for any family. It holds a lot of stuff, and a lot of people too. I once packed the car to the limit with 9 passengers, a dog, three coolers, and a few picnic baskets, and we were all very comfortable. This car beats any other fullsize SUV, especially Ford and Toyota. I have two friends, one of whom owns the Ford, the other owns the Toyota. Once they both got into my Chevy, they were amazed. They were also very upset that they hadnt gotten the Suburban. They said it had a better build quality, more power (than the Toyota), better handling and more comfort!

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  Great Car - 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
  By T Treadwell - February 19 - 10:33 am

  The Suburban is a little hard to get use to at first, but when you do get use to it there is no other car that will compare.. Long rides on the highway produce no back pain or fatigue.. The gas costs you a little more but the safety and ride is worth the price of the gas.. also there is no complaints from the back as there is ample leg room as well as seat comfort.. Also no bumpy rides here..

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  Best vehicle I ever had - 1993 Chevrolet Suburban
  By martinez - February 18 - 1:26 am

  Lots of room, and a beautiful exterior. Its great for any kind of weather. An all around great car. I totally regret not getting one any sooner.

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  I love my Suburban - 2001 Chevrolet Suburban
  By Terri Hoff - February 17 - 1:46 am

  After having paid my dues since my last two vehicles were green minivans, I decided to take the plunge and go for another SUV. Id had a Ford Explorer before I had that third child! Ive already told my husband that I am ruined. Until I get the kids raised, Im a Suburban driver for life! It is reliable,and the "little touches", such as carpeting all the way up into the control panel, yummy leather, a control panel both for the stereo and the climate for the rear passengers, go above and beyond expectations. The cargo space has no peer. Its huge, carpeted, of course, and there are little "secret compartments" here and there. I could go on and on, but Im out of space!

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  It is worth buying - 2005 Chevrolet Suburban
  By dale - February 12 - 10:43 am

  This is my 3rd Suburban. My 1st suburban was back in 1996. They are great for long trips and someone who sits behind the wheel for long periods of time. Oh yes, I will buy another one in 2007 if I like the style.