Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Chevrolet Suburban shopping experience:
1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Chevrolet Suburban offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Chevrolet Suburban at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.
2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about
3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Chevrolet Suburban? Wrong! If the Chevrolet Suburban is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.
4. Questions - Got a question about Chevrolet Suburban then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....
5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Chevrolet Suburban? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Chevrolet Suburban and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.
6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Chevrolet Suburban wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.
7. Feedback - happy with your Chevrolet Suburban then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.
8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Chevrolet Suburban site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site
9. Contact - got a question about Chevrolet Suburban, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.
10. Payment - ready to pay for your Chevrolet Suburban, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.
{{Infobox Automobile| name = Chevrolet Suburban| image = | manufacturer = Chevrolet
GMC (automobile)| parent_company = General Motors-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1933-1934| production = 1933-1934| body_style = 2-door [station wagon| layout =
FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| body_style = 2-door station wagon-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1941-1947| production = 1941-1947| layout = FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1947-1955| production = 1947-1955| transmission = 2-speed automatic| layout = [FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1955-1959| production = 1955-1959| engine = 265 cc [V8
283 cc
V8| body_style = 2-door [station wagon-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1960-1966| production = 1960-1966| aka = GMC Carryall| body_style = 2-door
SUV| layout = [Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| engine = 305 cc
V6283 cc V8
307 cc
V8350 cc
V8, [rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| layout =
Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive
6.2L 148 hp V8
5.7L 195 hp V8
5.7L 210 hp V8
7.4L 250 hp V8| transmission = 3-speed [automatic transmission
4-speed
automatic transmission3-speed +low range manual| length = | width = | height = R10:
V10:
R20:
V20: | wheelbase = | curb weight = 5837 lb| related = Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Chevrolet C/K| assembly = Flint, Michigan
Janesville, Wisconsin-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| layout =
Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive Suburban| production = 1992-1999| platform = [GMT400 [V87.4 L Vortec V8
6.5 L
Turbodiesel V8| length = Chevrolet:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 GMC: | width = 1992-94 Chevrolet:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 GMC:
1995-99 Chevrolet & 1997-99 GMC: | height = 1992-94 Chevrolet 4WD & 1997-99 GMC 2500 2WD:
1992-94 Chevrolet 2WD:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 1500 2WD:
1995-96 2500 2WD:
1995-96 1500 4WD:
1995-96 2500 4WD & 1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 4WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 2500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 2500 4WD:
1997-99 GMC 1500 2WD:
1997-99 GMC 1500 4WD:
1997-99 2500 4WD: | wheelbase = | assembly = [Janesville, WisconsinArlington, TexasSilao, Mexico-->{{Infobox Automobile generation],
rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive| platform = [GM GMT platform#GMT800| engine = 5.3 L
Vortec V8
6.0 L
Vortec V88.1 L
Vortec V8| length = | width = 2000-04 Suburban 1500 & 2500 2WD & Yukon XL:
2000-06 Suburban 2500 4WD & 2005-06 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2005-06 Suburban 1500: | height = 2000-02 Suburban 1500 4WD:
2000-02 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2000-02 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2000-02 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2000-04 Yukon XL 1500 4WD & Denali:
Yukon XL 2500 4WD:
Yukon XL 1500 2WD:
Yukon XL 2500 2WD:
2003-06 Suburban 1500 4WD:
2003-04 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2003-04 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2003-04 Suburban 2500 2WD & 2005-06 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2005-06 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2005-06 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2005-06 Yukon XL 1500 SL & SLE 4WD: | wheelbase = | assembly = [Janesville, WisconsinArlington, Texas
Silao,
Mexico
[Chevrolet AvalancheChevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon
Hummer H2-->{{Infobox Automobile generation] Yukon XL
Cadillac Escalade ESV| layout =
Front-engine design, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive| engine = 5.3 L [Vortec
V86.0 L
Vortec V86.2 L Vortec V8 (Yukon XL Denali and Escalade ESV only)]| transmission = 4-speed
automatic transmission| length = | width = | height =
Denali: | assembly =
Janesville, WisconsinArlington, Texas
Silao,
Mexico
[Chevrolet AvalancheChevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon-->
The
Chevrolet Suburban is a large
sport utility vehicle from Chevrolet. It is one of the longest-lived
automobile nameplates in the United States, dating from 1935 and is likely to be produced under this name for the foreseeable future. For most of its recent history, the Suburban has been a station wagon bodied version of the Chevrolet pickup truck, including the
Chevrolet C/K series of truck-based vehicles. It has been traditionally one of General Motors most profitable vehicles, with relatively high resale value for an American truck and station wagon.
History
Many automotive companies in the United States used the "Suburban" name to indicate a windowed, station wagon type body on a commercial frame including Dodge,
Plymouth (automobile),
Studebaker,
Nash,
Chevrolet, and GMC (automobile). With the end of production of the
Dodge Town Wagon in 1966, only General Motors continued to manufacture a vehicle branded as a "Suburban", and they were awarded an exclusive trademark on the name in 1988. The Suburban is one of the largest SUVs on the market. It has outlasted many competitive vehicles such as the Travelall of the 1970s, and the
Ford Excursion of the 2000s. The latest competitor is an extended
Ford Expedition.
The Suburban of the 1990s and 2000s is a full-size SUV with three rows of seating, a full
pickup truck frame, and V8 engine. The trucks are popular with large suburban families due to their "go anywhere, haul anything" nature, but have been criticized for their excessive bulk and poor fuel economy. The Suburban is one of the few
station wagons available with all bench rows. Unlike smaller 3-row full-sized SUV's such as the Tahoe, the extra length provides a full-sized cargo area behind the up to 9 passengers to carry their luggage for an extended trip, and tow a sizeable trailer. This class of truck remains much more popular than full-sized vans which can carry even more passengers and tow trailers.
Chevrolet began production of its all steel "carryall-suburban" in 1935. GMC Truck brought out its version in 1937. These vehicles were also known as the "Suburban Carryall" until rebranded simply as the "Suburban" in the 1980s with the arrival of the SUV craze.
General Motors has produced these large SUVs for both its GMC and Chevrolet marques, but in 2000 the GMC version was renamed the Yukon XL; today the name is limited to vehicles produced under the Chevrolet marque. In 2003
Cadillac introduced its version of the Suburban, calling it the
Cadillac Escalade ESV. Notably, the Escalade ESV seats a maximum of 8 people, as well as the Chevrolet and GMC models can also seat 8. Shorter versions of these vehicles are sold as the Chevrolet Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and
Cadillac Escalade. Versions with a pickup bed in place of the rear cargo box are sold as the
Chevrolet Avalanche and
Cadillac Escalade EXT.
In recent years, the Suburban has been popular as a police car, fire chief's vehicle, or
Emergency Medical Services fly-car. Suburbans are also popular when converted for duty as a
limousine. The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in
Las Vegas, NV operates a fleet of purple Suburbans to serve VIP patrons and high rollers. On the
HBO series
The Sopranos Tony Soprano drives a GMT400 model Chevrolet Suburban.
In the late 1990s, GM also introduced a Right hand drive version of the Suburban, badged as a
Holden, for the
Australian consumer. It proved to be a failure, however, and GM withdrew the Suburban in 2000 from Holden's lineup.
Recent Models
GMT800
The GMT800-based Suburbans were introduced in the 2000 model year. Chevrolet sold two models of Suburbans: 1/2 ton and 3/4 ton. They came in either LS or LT trim packages. All models came in either 2wd or optional push button 4wd(w/ low range transfer case). A tow hitch with a trailer brake controller was standard.
2001:Both the LT now came with OnStar standard. The 6.0 liter put out 20
horsepower (15 Watt#Kilowatt) more, and an 8.1 liter was an option for the 3/4 ton.
2002:Many features from the options list were added to the standard equipment on the LS model, including A/C, Alloy wheels, Power Windows, Power Front seats, and Rear HVAC Controls. A Z71 off-road package was added for 2002, which included special body moldings and special 17 inch wheels with aggressive tread tires, the package was only available with four wheel drive.
2003:Responding to many crictics of GM's hard plastic and cold, unfriendly looking interiors, the Suburban and the rest of Chevrolet's line of full size trucks received reworked interiors, complete with RDS radio, tri-zone climate control(driver, passenger, and rear seats), new power window switches, a more ergonomic steering wheel with audio controls, Power adjustable pedals, Stability Control, and many other entertainment options and creature comforts.
2004:Tire Pressure monitor now standard on all trim levels.
2005:Stability control becomes standard on the 1500(1/2 ton) models, and the Z71 was available with 2wd. A navigation system became an option.
2006:An LTZ package became available, coming with 20-inch wheels, all wheel drive, and the 6.0 was standard and also the first time available in the 1/2 ton model.
Engines
- Vortec V8 285 hp (213 kW) 00-02 295 hp (220 kW) 03-06 at 5200 rpm and 335 ft·lbf (454 kW) of torque at 4000 rpm).
- Vortec 6000 V8 (335 hp at 5200 rpm and 375 ft·lbf of torque at 4000 rpm).
- Vortec 8100 V8 (325 hp at 4200 rpm and 447 ft·lbf of torque at 3200 rpm).
Trivia:The third row seats of the 00-02 models were vinyl even with the leather option for the first two rows.The optional sub-woofer was a first for full size SUV's (besides the Tahoe released a year earlier).
GMT900
The 2007
model year Suburban and Yukon XL were unveiled at the 2006
Los Angeles Auto Show in January. Production of the redesigned GM GMT platform#GMT900 Suburban and Yukon XL began at
Janesville Assembly and
Silao Assembly in March of 2006, with the vehicles arriving at dealerships in April.
The new models have been redesigned with more modern styling, which has been seen on the already released Chevrolet Tahoe. The exterior features a more
aerodynamic shape, made partly by a steeply raked windshield angle. The new design has less drag than previous models, making it more aerodynamic.
The interior has a redesigned dashboard and improved seats. It still retains its 9-passenger seating availability, which is available on LS models. LT2, LT3, and LTZ models welcome leather seating and available 6, 7, and 8 passenger seating.
Towing is also the best of any other full-size SUV, with the ability to tow up to 9,700 pounds on three-quarter ton models.
Older Model Series
1933 - 1934
Chevrolet offered a
station wagon body, built on the 1/2 ton truck frame. This model was specifically built for
United States National Guard units and
Civilian Conservation Corps units. Much of the body was constructed from wood, and could seat up to eight occupants.
1935 - 1940
Chevrolet offered the body style as a "Carryall Suburban". These share the front sheetmetal and frames of the 1/2 ton pickup models of the same year, but featured all-metal wagon bodies differing very little in shape from contemporary "woodie" wagons. Seating for up to eight occupants was provided, with three in front row, two in the middle row, and three in the rear row. Either rear panel doors or a rear tailgate/lift window were provided for easy loading and unloading of luggage.
1941 - 1947 - "Art Deco"
Suburbans were built in model years 1941, 1942, and 1946. Seating for up to eight occupants was provided. Models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116." The Chevrolet versions were equipped a
Chevrolet Straight-6 engine. The GMC version was equipped with a GMC Straight-6 engine.
1947 - 1955 - "Advance Design"
Beginning in 1954, the Hydra-Matic 4-forward-speed automatic transmission is available in the Chevrolet Suburban (GMC offered this transmission in 1953). As with the Art Deco series, models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116."
This was the last series to feature "Canopy express" models.
1955 - 1959 - "Task Force"
Engines included
Chevrolet Straight-6 engine and the small block V-8s. Chevrolet used its Chevrolet Small-Block engine engine, later evolving it to a 283 CID version. GMC based their V-8 on a
Pontiac V8 engine design. Standard Suburban model numbers continued from the previous series, but the introduction of four-wheel-drive models in 1957 added the numbers "3156" for 4WD Suburbans with panel doors, and "3166" for 4WD Suburbans with tailgates.
1960 - 1966 - "First Generation C/K"
The styling of the 1960 - 1961 model year took cues from the late 1950s Chevrolet cars and had large oval ports above the grille. The cab featured a "wrap around" windshield. Both tailgate and "barn door" rear openings were available. From 1962 onwards, the hood styling was 'toned down' a bit, with a more modern looking hood that eliminated the large ports. In 1964, the front glass area was updated to a flatter windshield, and larger door glass.
This model series introduced a factory-equipped 4WD ("K") option for the first time. The 2WD "C" models introduced a torsion bar-based independent front suspension and trailing arm and coil spring rear. But by 1963, returned to a more conventional coil-spring approach.
Engines included both Chevrolet Straight-6 engine and
Chevrolet Small-Block engine. A
GMC V6 engine was also available on GMC models. The 305 was actually 'brought down' from GMCs medium duty truck line. It featured huge torque numbers, but was also notable for poor fuel economy.
One ton (C-30), panel truck models were no longer available after 1966.
1967 - 1972 - "Three doors"
The
Chevrolet C/K Suburbans are easily recognised by having only a single drivers side door and two passenger-side doors. They were available in both 2WD and 4WD models. Engines included the six-cylinder (e.g., Chevrolet Straight-6 engine#Generation 3, and
GMC V6 engine), and Chevrolet Small-Block engine of the current model year (e.g., 283, 307, 350 cubic inch V-8s.) For the first time, a three-quarter ton version was available.
1971 saw the introduction of disc brakes on the front wheels, and 1972 was the last year for coil spring rear suspension on 2WD models.
This series would also be the last to offer C-10 & C-20 Panel truck models for commercial purposes.
1973 - 1991 - "9-passenger seating"
Starting with the
Chevrolet C/K models, the Suburban was finally a 4-door vehicle. The rounded corners 1970s body style remained largely unchanged for 18 model years - making this series the longest in production of any Suburban. Both 2WD and 4WD models, designated "C" and "K" were offered, as well as one-half ton and three-quarter ton ("10" and "20" on the Chevy, "1500" and "2500" for GMC) models. The one ton model designation was the C or K 30 for Chevrolet and 3500 for GMC.
The base engine was the
Chevrolet Small-Block engine. A 400 cubic inch V-8 was optional. The Chevrolet Big-Block engine was now available for the first time, most commonly in the 2WD three-quarter ton models. A 6.2
Liter Diesel V-8 was also available from 1982-onwards. The diesel later went to become the engine of choice for Suburbans imported to Europe from USA.
Three-speed
Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmissions were initially provided. In the 1/2 ton models, the Turbo-Hydramatic 350 was used, and in the 3/4 ton models, the Turbo-Hydramatic 400 was used. Towing packages, offering gearing reduction and cooling additions for heavy loads, were available. A "positraction"
limited slip differential was optional. Later vehicles came equipped with rear anti-lock brakes (only active in 2WD).
Trim options included base level, and upgraded Silverado versions. An optional 3rd row bench seat allowed for 9-passenger configurations. A rear heating system was optional, as well, to help heat the long vehicle's interior.
In 1986 and 1987, the engines were switched from carburetors to electronic fuel injection. The system that GM chose was called
Fuel injection#Throttle body injection, or TBI. The change improved fuel economy, performance, and emissions. Overdrive (mechanics)-equipped 4-speed automatic transmission were also incorporated - in the form of the 700R4 (1/2 ton models) and 4L80 (3/4 ton models).
General Motors temporarily changed the usual "Chevrolet C/K" designation to "R" and "V" for the 1988 through 1991 model years. This was done to avoid confusion with the GMT400-based Chevrolet C/K, which were introduced in 1988, during the overlap period.
Also this was the only generation to come from the factory with a solid front axle and New Process transfer cases. You could either have manual or automatic hubs on later 1/2 ton models, but 3/4 and early 1/2 tons all had the manual hubs.
1992 - 1999 - GMT400
The GMT400-based Suburbans were introduced in the 1992 model year. This was actually quite late compared to their pickup truck brethren - which switched platforms in the 1988 model year. Both 2WD and 4WD models, again designated "C" and "K", were offered, as well as half ton and three-quarter ton ("1500" and "2500") models.
The base engine for all variants was the
Chevrolet small-block V8. The
Chevrolet Big-Block engine was optional for the 2500 series. The optional 6.5 L
Turbodiesel was available on all models - though rare on the 1500 series. Transmissions included the
GM 4L60-E transmission 4-speed automatic in the 1500 series, and the heavier duty
GM 4L80-E transmission 4-speed automatic in the 2500 series.
The GMT400 series introduced independent front suspension for a more comfortable ride compared to older models. The 2WD models used
coil springs and 4WD models used
torsion bars in the front suspension. All models used a
live axle and
leaf springs in the rear.
Trim options included a base-level version, the LS, and the LT. Interior seating arrangements allowed for either bucket or bench seating in the first row, and optional 3rd row bench. Thus it could be configured from 5- to 9-passenger seating.
There were a number of mid-life upgrades on the GMT400. These include:
- Revised interior in 1995 - including a driver-side air bag
- Vortec engines with increased power and fuel efficiency in 1996
- OnStar and passenger-side air bags in 1997
- A new full-time 4WD option in 1998
In 1998, Holden premiered the right-hand-drive version of Suburban for local Australian and Kiwi markets with either petrol or diesel motors. However, the sheer size and poor quality material doomed its first foray into the RHD market. Interestingly, General Motors chose to engineer and build the right-hand drive conversion rather than relying on Quigley 4x4, one of the approved and most experienced conversion specialists. Quigley 4x4 had done the exceptional RHD conversion utilising the high quality material and mirror-image dashboard. General Motors instead utilised the modified dashboard from 1995-2005 RHD Chevrolet Blazer.
In pop culture
In part because of their prominent role as staples of real-life law enforcement and FBI use, Chevrolet Suburbans have long been the SUV of choice for a variety of movies, television series, and even music videos. Here are some of their more notable appearances:
- In the television show "NUMB3RS" the FBI car that is used in the show is a 2007 black Chevrolet Suburban.
- In The Hills Have Eyes (2006 film) the Carter family drives a 1991 Chevrolet Suburban V-2500 towing a 1988 Airstream International and crashes into a rock after the tires are blown out.
- In the TV-series Promised Land the family travels around the country in a third-generation, and later (after an accident) a fourth-generation Suburban.
- In the TV-series The Sopranos, lead character Tony Soprano is frequently seen driving a maroon 1999 Suburban with a gray leather interior. The car was sold at auction following the broadcast of the final episode of The Sopranos in August 2007.
- In the Harrison Ford action film Clear and Present Danger a fleet of white 3/4 Ton 1994 models operated by the US Government in South America is destroyed in an ambush by drug cartel operatives.
- In the movie, The Peacemaker, George Clooney and Nicole Kidman drive a 1994 Chevrolet Suburban 1/2 ton.
- In Twister, Jonas Miller and his assistant are leading their convoy in a black 1991 Chevrolet Suburban.
- On March 9, 1997 in the early hours of the morning, rapper Notorious B.I.G. was traveling in a 1998 GMC Suburban. After the end of an after-party the rapper's Suburban was shot at from the right side shooting 4 shots in the rapper's chest. He was rushed to Mt. Cedar Sinai where he was pronounced dead at 1:15 am after an attemptive emergency surgery.
- In the Resident Evil universe the Umbrella Corporation operates both Chevrolet Suburbans and Ford Expeditions as fleet vehicles. This is best seen in the movie Resident Evil: Apocalypse.
- In the 2003 Film Final Destination 2, main character Kimberly (A.J. Cook) and three of her friends drive a red 1998 Tahoe in the pivotal highway pileup scene. The Tahoe is destroyed quite spectacularly after striking a log at highway speeds and rolling several times. Characteristic to the Final Destination franchise, this initial pileup is revealed to be merely a premonition, but the Tahoe is destroyed again when "Death" comes back for a second attempt on Kimberly's friends, and explodes into flames after being struck by a flatbed 18-wheeler. The Tahoe is the only vehicle in the film to be destroyed twice, not counting cosmetic damage and airbag deploment to Kat Jenning's (Keegan Connor Tracy)'s Ford Expedition.
- The vehicle that New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine was traveling in during his motorcade accident on April 12, 2007, was a black 2005 Chevrolet Suburban.
External links
- The official Chevrolet Suburban website
- Chevy Suburban Club - Forums, support and more
- The History of the Suburban
- History of GM Pickup Trucks
- Member supported Suburban Forum
- Member supported Suburban/SUV/Truck Help/Info/HOW2 site
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{{Infobox Automobile| name = Chevrolet Suburban| image = | manufacturer = Chevrolet
GMC (automobile)| parent_company =
General Motors-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1933-1934| production = 1933-1934| body_style = 2-door [station wagon| layout = FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| body_style = 2-door
station wagon-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1941-1947| production = 1941-1947| layout =
FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1947-1955| production = 1947-1955| transmission = 2-speed automatic| layout = [FR layout-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1955-1959| production = 1955-1959| engine = 265 cc [V8283 cc V8| body_style = 2-door [station wagon-->{{Infobox Automobile generation| name = 1960-1966| production = 1960-1966| aka = GMC Carryall| body_style = 2-door
SUV| layout = [Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| engine = 305 cc
V6283 cc
V8307 cc V8
350 cc V8, [rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| layout = Front-engine design, rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive
6.2L 148 hp V8
5.7L 195 hp V8
5.7L 210 hp V8
7.4L 250 hp V8| transmission = 3-speed [automatic transmission4-speed
automatic transmission3-speed +low range manual| length = | width = | height = R10:
V10:
R20:
V20: | wheelbase = | curb weight = 5837 lb| related = Chevrolet K5 Blazer
Chevrolet C/K| assembly = Flint, Michigan
Janesville, Wisconsin-->{{Infobox Automobile generation]| layout =
Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive Suburban| production = 1992-1999| platform = [GMT400 [V87.4 L
Vortec V86.5 L Turbodiesel V8| length = Chevrolet:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 GMC: | width = 1992-94 Chevrolet:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 GMC:
1995-99 Chevrolet & 1997-99 GMC: | height = 1992-94 Chevrolet 4WD & 1997-99 GMC 2500 2WD:
1992-94 Chevrolet 2WD:
1992-94 GMC:
1995-96 1500 2WD:
1995-96 2500 2WD:
1995-96 1500 4WD:
1995-96 2500 4WD & 1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 4WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 1500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 2500 2WD:
1997-99 Chevrolet 2500 4WD:
1997-99 GMC 1500 2WD:
1997-99 GMC 1500 4WD:
1997-99 2500 4WD: | wheelbase = | assembly = [Janesville, Wisconsin
Arlington, Texas
Silao,
Mexico-->{{Infobox Automobile generation], rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive| platform = [GM GMT platform#GMT800| engine = 5.3 L
Vortec V86.0 L
Vortec V8
8.1 L
Vortec V8| length = | width = 2000-04 Suburban 1500 & 2500 2WD & Yukon XL:
2000-06 Suburban 2500 4WD & 2005-06 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2005-06 Suburban 1500: | height = 2000-02 Suburban 1500 4WD:
2000-02 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2000-02 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2000-02 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2000-04 Yukon XL 1500 4WD & Denali:
Yukon XL 2500 4WD:
Yukon XL 1500 2WD:
Yukon XL 2500 2WD:
2003-06 Suburban 1500 4WD:
2003-04 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2003-04 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2003-04 Suburban 2500 2WD & 2005-06 Suburban 2500 4WD:
2005-06 Suburban 1500 2WD:
2005-06 Suburban 2500 2WD:
2005-06 Yukon XL 1500 SL & SLE 4WD: | wheelbase = | assembly = [Janesville, WisconsinArlington, Texas
Silao, Mexico
[Chevrolet Avalanche
Chevrolet Tahoe/GMC Yukon
Hummer H2-->{{Infobox Automobile generation] Yukon XL
Cadillac Escalade ESV| layout =
Front-engine design,
rear-wheel drive /
four-wheel drive| engine = 5.3 L [Vortec V8
6.0 L Vortec
V86.2 L Vortec V8 (Yukon XL Denali and Escalade ESV only)]| transmission = 4-speed
automatic transmission| length = | width = | height =
Denali: | assembly = Janesville, Wisconsin
Arlington, TexasSilao,
Mexico
[Chevrolet AvalancheChevrolet Tahoe/
GMC Yukon-->
The
Chevrolet Suburban is a large
sport utility vehicle from
Chevrolet. It is one of the longest-lived automobile nameplates in the United States, dating from 1935 and is likely to be produced under this name for the foreseeable future. For most of its recent history, the Suburban has been a
station wagon bodied version of the Chevrolet pickup truck, including the Chevrolet C/K series of truck-based vehicles. It has been traditionally one of General Motors most profitable vehicles, with relatively high resale value for an American truck and station wagon.
History
Many automotive companies in the United States used the "Suburban" name to indicate a windowed, station wagon type body on a commercial frame including
Dodge,
Plymouth (automobile), Studebaker, Nash,
Chevrolet, and GMC (automobile). With the end of production of the
Dodge Town Wagon in 1966, only
General Motors continued to manufacture a vehicle branded as a "Suburban", and they were awarded an exclusive trademark on the name in 1988. The Suburban is one of the largest SUVs on the market. It has outlasted many competitive vehicles such as the
Travelall of the 1970s, and the
Ford Excursion of the 2000s. The latest competitor is an extended Ford Expedition.
The Suburban of the 1990s and 2000s is a full-size SUV with three rows of seating, a full
pickup truck frame, and
V8 engine. The trucks are popular with large
suburban families due to their "go anywhere, haul anything" nature, but have been criticized for their excessive bulk and poor fuel economy. The Suburban is one of the few
station wagons available with all bench rows. Unlike smaller 3-row full-sized SUV's such as the Tahoe, the extra length provides a full-sized cargo area behind the up to 9 passengers to carry their luggage for an extended trip, and tow a sizeable trailer. This class of truck remains much more popular than full-sized vans which can carry even more passengers and tow trailers.
Chevrolet began production of its all steel "carryall-suburban" in 1935.
GMC Truck brought out its version in 1937. These vehicles were also known as the "Suburban Carryall" until rebranded simply as the "Suburban" in the 1980s with the arrival of the SUV craze.
General Motors has produced these large SUVs for both its GMC and Chevrolet
marques, but in 2000 the GMC version was renamed the Yukon XL; today the name is limited to vehicles produced under the Chevrolet marque. In 2003 Cadillac introduced its version of the Suburban, calling it the
Cadillac Escalade ESV. Notably, the Escalade ESV seats a maximum of 8 people, as well as the Chevrolet and GMC models can also seat 8. Shorter versions of these vehicles are sold as the
Chevrolet Tahoe,
GMC Yukon, and
Cadillac Escalade. Versions with a pickup bed in place of the rear cargo box are sold as the Chevrolet Avalanche and
Cadillac Escalade EXT.
In recent years, the Suburban has been popular as a
police car,
fire chief's vehicle, or
Emergency Medical Services fly-car. Suburbans are also popular when converted for duty as a
limousine. The
Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in
Las Vegas, NV operates a fleet of purple Suburbans to serve VIP patrons and high rollers. On the HBO series
The Sopranos Tony Soprano drives a GMT400 model Chevrolet Suburban.
In the late 1990s, GM also introduced a
Right hand drive version of the Suburban, badged as a Holden, for the
Australian consumer. It proved to be a failure, however, and GM withdrew the Suburban in 2000 from Holden's lineup.
Recent Models
GMT800
The GMT800-based Suburbans were introduced in the 2000 model year. Chevrolet sold two models of Suburbans: 1/2 ton and 3/4
ton. They came in either LS or LT trim packages. All models came in either 2wd or optional push button 4wd(w/ low range transfer case). A tow hitch with a trailer brake controller was standard.
2001:Both the LT now came with OnStar standard. The 6.0 liter put out 20 horsepower (15
Watt#Kilowatt) more, and an 8.1 liter was an option for the 3/4 ton.
2002:Many features from the options list were added to the standard equipment on the LS model, including A/C, Alloy wheels, Power Windows, Power Front seats, and Rear HVAC Controls. A Z71 off-road package was added for 2002, which included special body moldings and special 17 inch wheels with aggressive tread tires, the package was only available with four wheel drive.
2003:Responding to many crictics of GM's hard plastic and cold, unfriendly looking interiors, the Suburban and the rest of Chevrolet's line of full size trucks received reworked interiors, complete with RDS radio, tri-zone climate control(driver, passenger, and rear seats), new power window switches, a more ergonomic steering wheel with audio controls, Power adjustable pedals, Stability Control, and many other entertainment options and creature comforts.
2004:Tire Pressure monitor now standard on all trim levels.
2005:Stability control becomes standard on the 1500(1/2 ton) models, and the Z71 was available with 2wd. A navigation system became an option.
2006:An LTZ package became available, coming with 20-inch wheels, all wheel drive, and the 6.0 was standard and also the first time available in the 1/2 ton model.
Engines
- Vortec V8 285 hp (213 kW) 00-02 295 hp (220 kW) 03-06 at 5200 rpm and 335 ft·lbf (454 kW) of torque at 4000 rpm).
- Vortec 6000 V8 (335 hp at 5200 rpm and 375 ft·lbf of torque at 4000 rpm).
- Vortec 8100 V8 (325 hp at 4200 rpm and 447 ft·lbf of torque at 3200 rpm).
Trivia:The third row seats of the 00-02 models were vinyl even with the leather option for the first two rows.The optional sub-woofer was a first for full size SUV's (besides the Tahoe released a year earlier).
GMT900
The 2007 model year Suburban and Yukon XL were unveiled at the 2006
Los Angeles Auto Show in January. Production of the redesigned
GM GMT platform#GMT900 Suburban and Yukon XL began at
Janesville Assembly and Silao Assembly in March of 2006, with the vehicles arriving at dealerships in April.
The new models have been redesigned with more modern styling, which has been seen on the already released
Chevrolet Tahoe. The exterior features a more aerodynamic shape, made partly by a steeply raked windshield angle. The new design has less drag than previous models, making it more aerodynamic.
The interior has a redesigned dashboard and improved seats. It still retains its 9-passenger seating availability, which is available on LS models. LT2, LT3, and LTZ models welcome leather seating and available 6, 7, and 8 passenger seating.
Towing is also the best of any other full-size SUV, with the ability to tow up to 9,700 pounds on three-quarter ton models.
Older Model Series
1933 - 1934
Chevrolet offered a station wagon body, built on the 1/2 ton truck frame. This model was specifically built for United States National Guard units and
Civilian Conservation Corps units. Much of the body was constructed from wood, and could seat up to eight occupants.
1935 - 1940
Chevrolet offered the body style as a "Carryall Suburban". These share the front sheetmetal and frames of the 1/2 ton pickup models of the same year, but featured all-metal wagon bodies differing very little in shape from contemporary "woodie" wagons. Seating for up to eight occupants was provided, with three in front row, two in the middle row, and three in the rear row. Either rear panel doors or a rear tailgate/lift window were provided for easy loading and unloading of luggage.
1941 - 1947 - "Art Deco"
Suburbans were built in model years 1941, 1942, and 1946. Seating for up to eight occupants was provided. Models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116." The Chevrolet versions were equipped a
Chevrolet Straight-6 engine. The GMC version was equipped with a GMC Straight-6 engine.
1947 - 1955 - "Advance Design"
Beginning in 1954, the
Hydra-Matic 4-forward-speed automatic transmission is available in the Chevrolet Suburban (GMC offered this transmission in 1953). As with the Art Deco series, models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116."
This was the last series to feature "
Canopy express" models.
1955 - 1959 - "Task Force"
Engines included
Chevrolet Straight-6 engine and the small block V-8s. Chevrolet used its Chevrolet Small-Block engine engine, later evolving it to a 283 CID version. GMC based their V-8 on a
Pontiac V8 engine design. Standard Suburban model numbers continued from the previous series, but the introduction of four-wheel-drive models in 1957 added the numbers "3156" for 4WD Suburbans with panel doors, and "3166" for 4WD Suburbans with tailgates.
1960 - 1966 - "First Generation C/K"
The styling of the 1960 - 1961 model year took cues from the late 1950s Chevrolet cars and had large oval ports above the grille. The cab featured a "wrap around" windshield. Both tailgate and "barn door" rear openings were available. From 1962 onwards, the hood styling was 'toned down' a bit, with a more modern looking hood that eliminated the large ports. In 1964, the front glass area was updated to a flatter windshield, and larger door glass.
This model series introduced a factory-equipped 4WD ("K") option for the first time. The 2WD "C" models introduced a
torsion bar-based independent front suspension and trailing arm and coil spring rear. But by 1963, returned to a more conventional coil-spring approach.
Engines included both Chevrolet Straight-6 engine and
Chevrolet Small-Block engine. A GMC V6 engine was also available on GMC models. The 305 was actually 'brought down' from GMCs medium duty truck line. It featured huge torque numbers, but was also notable for poor fuel economy.
One ton (C-30), panel truck models were no longer available after 1966.
1967 - 1972 - "Three doors"
The Chevrolet C/K Suburbans are easily recognised by having only a single drivers side door and two passenger-side doors. They were available in both 2WD and 4WD models. Engines included the six-cylinder (e.g., Chevrolet Straight-6 engine#Generation 3, and GMC V6 engine), and
Chevrolet Small-Block engine of the current model year (e.g., 283, 307, 350 cubic inch V-8s.) For the first time, a three-quarter ton version was available.
1971 saw the introduction of disc brakes on the front wheels, and 1972 was the last year for coil spring rear suspension on 2WD models.
This series would also be the last to offer C-10 & C-20
Panel truck models for commercial purposes.
1973 - 1991 - "9-passenger seating"
Starting with the
Chevrolet C/K models, the Suburban was finally a 4-door vehicle. The rounded corners 1970s body style remained largely unchanged for 18 model years - making this series the longest in production of any Suburban. Both 2WD and 4WD models, designated "C" and "K" were offered, as well as one-half ton and three-quarter ton ("10" and "20" on the Chevy, "1500" and "2500" for GMC) models. The one ton model designation was the C or K 30 for Chevrolet and 3500 for GMC.
The base engine was the Chevrolet Small-Block engine. A 400 cubic inch V-8 was optional. The
Chevrolet Big-Block engine was now available for the first time, most commonly in the 2WD three-quarter ton models. A 6.2
Liter Diesel V-8 was also available from 1982-onwards. The diesel later went to become the engine of choice for Suburbans imported to Europe from USA.
Three-speed
Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmissions were initially provided. In the 1/2 ton models, the Turbo-Hydramatic 350 was used, and in the 3/4 ton models, the Turbo-Hydramatic 400 was used. Towing packages, offering gearing reduction and cooling additions for heavy loads, were available. A "positraction" limited slip differential was optional. Later vehicles came equipped with rear anti-lock brakes (only active in 2WD).
Trim options included base level, and upgraded Silverado versions. An optional 3rd row bench seat allowed for 9-passenger configurations. A rear heating system was optional, as well, to help heat the long vehicle's interior.
In 1986 and 1987, the engines were switched from carburetors to electronic fuel injection. The system that GM chose was called
Fuel injection#Throttle body injection, or TBI. The change improved fuel economy, performance, and emissions. Overdrive (mechanics)-equipped 4-speed automatic transmission were also incorporated - in the form of the 700R4 (1/2 ton models) and 4L80 (3/4 ton models).
General Motors temporarily changed the usual "Chevrolet C/K" designation to "R" and "V" for the 1988 through 1991 model years. This was done to avoid confusion with the GMT400-based
Chevrolet C/K, which were introduced in 1988, during the overlap period.
Also this was the only generation to come from the factory with a solid front axle and New Process transfer cases. You could either have manual or automatic hubs on later 1/2 ton models, but 3/4 and early 1/2 tons all had the manual hubs.
1992 - 1999 - GMT400
The GMT400-based Suburbans were introduced in the 1992 model year. This was actually quite late compared to their pickup truck brethren - which switched platforms in the 1988 model year. Both 2WD and 4WD models, again designated "C" and "K", were offered, as well as half ton and three-quarter ton ("1500" and "2500") models.
The base engine for all variants was the Chevrolet small-block V8. The Chevrolet Big-Block engine was optional for the 2500 series. The optional 6.5 L Turbodiesel was available on all models - though rare on the 1500 series. Transmissions included the GM 4L60-E transmission 4-speed automatic in the 1500 series, and the heavier duty
GM 4L80-E transmission 4-speed automatic in the 2500 series.
The GMT400 series introduced
independent front suspension for a more comfortable ride compared to older models. The 2WD models used
coil springs and 4WD models used
torsion bars in the front suspension. All models used a live axle and leaf springs in the rear.
Trim options included a base-level version, the LS, and the LT. Interior seating arrangements allowed for either bucket or bench seating in the first row, and optional 3rd row bench. Thus it could be configured from 5- to 9-passenger seating.
There were a number of mid-life upgrades on the GMT400. These include:
- Revised interior in 1995 - including a driver-side air bag
- Vortec engines with increased power and fuel efficiency in 1996
- OnStar and passenger-side air bags in 1997
- A new full-time 4WD option in 1998
In 1998, Holden premiered the right-hand-drive version of Suburban for local Australian and Kiwi markets with either petrol or diesel motors. However, the sheer size and poor quality material doomed its first foray into the RHD market. Interestingly, General Motors chose to engineer and build the right-hand drive conversion rather than relying on Quigley 4x4, one of the approved and most experienced conversion specialists. Quigley 4x4 had done the exceptional RHD conversion utilising the high quality material and mirror-image dashboard. General Motors instead utilised the modified dashboard from 1995-2005 RHD Chevrolet Blazer.
In pop culture
In part because of their prominent role as staples of real-life law enforcement and FBI use, Chevrolet Suburbans have long been the SUV of choice for a variety of movies, television series, and even music videos. Here are some of their more notable appearances:
- In the television show "NUMB3RS" the FBI car that is used in the show is a 2007 black Chevrolet Suburban.
- In The Hills Have Eyes (2006 film) the Carter family drives a 1991 Chevrolet Suburban V-2500 towing a 1988 Airstream International and crashes into a rock after the tires are blown out.
- In the TV-series Promised Land the family travels around the country in a third-generation, and later (after an accident) a fourth-generation Suburban.
- In the TV-series The Sopranos, lead character Tony Soprano is frequently seen driving a maroon 1999 Suburban with a gray leather interior. The car was sold at auction following the broadcast of the final episode of The Sopranos in August 2007.
- In the Harrison Ford action film Clear and Present Danger a fleet of white 3/4 Ton 1994 models operated by the US Government in South America is destroyed in an ambush by drug cartel operatives.
- In the movie, The Peacemaker, George Clooney and Nicole Kidman drive a 1994 Chevrolet Suburban 1/2 ton.
- In Twister, Jonas Miller and his assistant are leading their convoy in a black 1991 Chevrolet Suburban.
- On March 9, 1997 in the early hours of the morning, rapper Notorious B.I.G. was traveling in a 1998 GMC Suburban. After the end of an after-party the rapper's Suburban was shot at from the right side shooting 4 shots in the rapper's chest. He was rushed to Mt. Cedar Sinai where he was pronounced dead at 1:15 am after an attemptive emergency surgery.
- In the Resident Evil universe the Umbrella Corporation operates both Chevrolet Suburbans and Ford Expeditions as fleet vehicles. This is best seen in the movie Resident Evil: Apocalypse.
- In the 2003 Film Final Destination 2, main character Kimberly (A.J. Cook) and three of her friends drive a red 1998 Tahoe in the pivotal highway pileup scene. The Tahoe is destroyed quite spectacularly after striking a log at highway speeds and rolling several times. Characteristic to the Final Destination franchise, this initial pileup is revealed to be merely a premonition, but the Tahoe is destroyed again when "Death" comes back for a second attempt on Kimberly's friends, and explodes into flames after being struck by a flatbed 18-wheeler. The Tahoe is the only vehicle in the film to be destroyed twice, not counting cosmetic damage and airbag deploment to Kat Jenning's (Keegan Connor Tracy)'s Ford Expedition.
- The vehicle that New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine was traveling in during his motorcade accident on April 12, 2007, was a black 2005 Chevrolet Suburban.
External links
- The official Chevrolet Suburban website
- Chevy Suburban Club - Forums, support and more
- The History of the Suburban
- History of GM Pickup Trucks
- Member supported Suburban Forum
- Member supported Suburban/SUV/Truck Help/Info/HOW2 site
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