Chevrolet Suburban Review
The Chevy
Suburban has been thoroughly redesigned for 2007, which means it might be called "all new," although it seems odd to apply those words to something that's been around for 70 years. This is the 11th generation of the venerable Suburban. And despite the fact that the current times might be less friendly to the trusty old truck than before, with vehicles of its size being demonized for causing the melting of icecaps and whatnot, the Suburban is no dinosaur. It is needed. And it is loved by those who need it. It can tow heavy trailers and haul loads of people and gear, all at the same time.
The Chevrolet Suburban comes in three trim levels, with two- or four-wheel drive. It's available in light-duty 1500 or heavy-duty 2500 chassis. The latest generation of its 5.3-liter Vortec engine (downsized to 325 cubic inches from 350 in the old days) has an aluminum block and makes 310 horsepower with 355 pound-feet of torque. The optional engine is a new 6.0-liter mill, with an aluminum block and heads and variable valve timing, making 366 horsepower and 380 pound-feet.
The popular 5.3-liter (1500, 4WD) is EPA-rated at 15 City and 20 Highway miles per gallon, on regular unleaded, and it can also run on ethanol); the same truck with the 6.0-liter engine is rated at 14/18. Keep in mind that EPA ratings are usually high; you won't likely achieve those numbers.