One of the longest-running models sold in the United States, the Chevrolet Suburban debuted back in 1936. After serving faithfully over many evolutionary years as a truck primarily meant for commercial or rural use, the extra-large Chevy 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.
2008 Chevrolet Suburban Half-Ton LT
With flexible, capable underpinnings, strong powertrains and spacious seating for up to nine plus their cargo, the current Chevrolet Suburban is a capable large SUV. A short list of competitive sport-utilities may offer more refinement and ultra-lux conveniences for more bucks, but the big 'burban, as well as its GMC equivalent, the Yukon, remains the only full-size SUV available in both light- and heavy-duty versions. It certainly comes recommended, and older models are also good choices for consumers desiring a used SUV.
2008 Chevrolet Suburban Half-Ton LTZ
The current-generation Chevrolet Suburban was fully redesigned for the 2007 model year. It rides on an updated chassis possessing all of its prior strength, plus a more comfortable ride and improved overall agility, performance and efficiency. Two advanced V8 engines are available to handle just about any conceivable need, and a full load of options allows one to add as much or as little luxury and capability as desired. Safety advancements like front seat side-impact airbags and stability control -- and available side-curtain airbags for all three rows -- make the new Suburban safer than ever before.
2008 Chevrolet Suburban Three-Quarter-Ton LS
Three well-equipped trim levels let you tailor the Suburban to fit your needs: base LS, more luxurious LT and the sporty LTZ. There are also two V8s available. Standard on the half-ton Suburban 1500 is a 5.3-liter V8 making 320 horsepower and 340 pound-feet of torque, equipped with GM's new fuel-conserving cylinder-deactivation technology; a larger 6.0-liter V8 now packing 366 horses and truckloads of torque powers the 3/4-ton Suburban 2500. Both still drive through four-speed automatic transmissions. A choice of two- or four-wheel drive is yours either way, and towing capacities can approach 10,000 pounds.
2008 Chevrolet Suburban Three-Quarter-Ton LT
For such a big truck, the Chevrolet Suburban is relatively quick when unloaded and can reach 60 mph in under 9 seconds. However, our editors found that the base V8 Suburban doesn't always feel so quick when carrying a load of power- and fuel-sapping stuff. We're impressed with the new suspension system, though -- coil-over shocks up front and a five-link setup out back, plus more precise rack-and-pinion steering -- that makes for more composed handling and a smoother ride than before. It's still not exactly nimble around corners, but the cabin is quiet at speed and the ride is always comfortably controlled. And pointed straight down an interstate or out in the wide open spaces, there aren't many better, more capable cruisers than the new Chevrolet Suburban. Overall, it's a compelling and top-rated choice we recommend for those whose people- and gear-hauling needs push the envelope of full size.
