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Series of American full-size automobiles by General Motors From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of SUVs built by Chevrolet since the 1935 model year. The longest-used automobile nameplate in the world,[citation needed] the Chevrolet Suburban is currently in its twelfth generation, introduced for 2021. Beginning life as one of the first metal-bodied station wagons, the Suburban is the progenitor of the modern full-size SUV, combining a wagon-style body with the chassis and powertrain of a pickup truck. Alongside its Advance Design, Task Force, and C/K predecessors, the Chevrolet Silverado currently shares chassis and mechanical commonality with the Suburban and other trucks.
| Chevrolet Suburban GMC Yukon XL | |
|---|---|
 2015 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LTZ | |
| Overview | |
| Manufacturer | General Motors |
| Also called |
|
| Production |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Full-size station wagon (1935–1959) Full-size SUV (1960–present) |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Related | |
Traditionally one of the most profitable vehicles sold by General Motors,[1] the Suburban has been marketed through both Chevrolet and GMC for nearly its entire production. Along sharing the Suburban name with Chevrolet, GMC has used several nameplates for the model line; since 2000, the division has marketed it as the GMC Yukon XL. Since 2003, Cadillac has marketed the Suburban as the Cadillac Escalade ESV. During the 1990s, GM Australia marketed right-hand drive Suburbans under the Holden brand.
The Suburban is sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Chile, Dominican Republic, Bolivia, Peru, Philippines, and the Middle East (except Israel), while the Yukon XL is sold only in North America (exclusive to the United States, Canada, and Mexico) and the Middle East territories (except Israel).
A 2018 iSeeCars.com study identified the Chevrolet Suburban as the car that is driven the most each year.[2] A 2019 iSeeCars.com study named the Chevrolet Suburban the second-ranked longest-lasting vehicle.[3] In December 2019, the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce unveiled a Hollywood Walk of Fame star for the Suburban, noting that the Suburban had been in "1,750 films and TV shows since 1952."[4][5]
Several automotive companies in the United States used the "Suburban" designation to indicate a windowed, station wagon–type body on a commercial frame including DeSoto, Dodge, Plymouth, Studebaker, and Nash, in addition to Chevrolet and GMC. The (Westchester) Suburban name was, in fact, a trademark of U.S. Body and Forging Co. of Tell City, Indiana, which built wooden station wagon bodies for all of these automobile and light truck chassis and more.
Chevrolet began production of its all-steel "carryall-suburban" in 1934.[6] GMC brought out its version in 1937. These vehicles were also known as the "Suburban Carryall" until GM shortened the name to simply "Suburban." GMC's equivalent to the Chevrolet model was originally named "Suburban" as well, until being rebranded as "Yukon XL" for the 2000 model year.
With the end of production of the Plymouth Fury Suburban station wagon in 1978, only General Motors continued to manufacture a vehicle branded as a "Suburban," and GM was awarded an exclusive trademark on the name in 1988. The Chevrolet Suburban is one of the largest SUVs on the market today. It has outlasted competitive vehicles such as the International Harvester Travelall, Jeep Wagoneer, and the Ford Excursion. The latest competitor is the extended-length Ford Expedition EL, which indirectly replaced the Excursion.
The Suburban as of today is a full-size SUV (upgraded to extended-length from 1967 onward to make room for the then-new K5 Blazer that debuted in 1969) with three rows of seating, a full pickup truck frame, and V8 engine. It is one of the few station wagons available with all bench seating rows. The Suburban is the same height and width as the Chevrolet Tahoe, except that the Suburban is 15–20 inches (380–510 mm) longer. The extra length provides a full-sized cargo area behind the nine-passenger seating area.
From 1973 to 2013, it had been available in half-ton and 3/4-ton versions. Chevrolet discontinued this option for the public during the tenth-generation model's tenure after 2013 because of slow sales. However, for the 2016 model year, a one-ton model debuted as an exclusive to rental, fleet, and government services as the eleventh generation in 4WD and with LS and LT trim options, but soft sales would result in Chevrolet discontinuing production on this model after 2019.
In recent years, the Suburban has been used as a police truck, fire chief's vehicle, and EMS vehicle. Suburbans are also used as taxicab livery and limousines. Gothic black Suburban vehicles are commonly used by federal intelligence services, such as the Secret Service. The Secret Service operates fully-armored versions of the Suburban for the President of the United States when he attends less formal engagements.[7] The Suburban (as well as the Tahoe and GMC variants) is very popular with the Federal Bureau of Investigation as a service vehicle.
In the late 1990s, GM also introduced a RHD version of the Suburban, badged as a Holden, for the Australian market. Sales were low and GM withdrew the model in 2000 from Holden's lineup. In 2019, Chevrolet considered bringing the Suburban back to the region as a converted RWD import through Holden Special Vehicles but using the Chevrolet badge, but is holding off on those plans because of numerous factors, including the situation involving GM's decision to retire the Holden brand in 2020.
In 2015, the Suburban commemorated its 80th anniversary at General Motors' Arlington Assembly Plant where the 10 millionth Suburban was produced.[8] A video was posted on Chevrolet's YouTube channel about its eighty-year legacy.[9]
In a February 26, 2018, article celebrating the vehicle's 83rd year, Car and Driver notes that the Suburban's longevity is due to being one of GM's best-selling brands, its appeal to customers across the board regardless of race, gender, class, or political affiliation, and a unique loyalty to the SUV. In an interview from Chevrolet's truck/SUV marketing executive Sandor Piszar, who recalls an event celebrating the truck division's 100th anniversary when they asked about what they named their vehicles, "It's a funny question, but it really is an intriguing point," Piszar says. "People name what they love. And they love their Suburbans."[10]
On December 5, 2019, the Chevrolet Suburban became the first vehicle to be awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce for its excellence in film and television, having appeared in more than 1,750 films and television series since 1952, and can also claim to have appeared in at least one television series every year since 1956, and at least one film every year since 1960, the most ever for an automobile of any type. The star, placed at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Avenue, also carried the Chevrolet "Bowtie" symbol instead of the entertainment symbols (film, stage, television, radio, musical instruments, and recording artist), another first for the Walk of Fame.[11]
There have been a total of twelve generations of Chevrolet Suburbans since its 1934 debut.
| 1935–1940[12] | |
|---|---|
.jpg) 1937 Chevrolet Carryall Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1935–1940 |
| Assembly |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | FR layout |
| Related | Chevrolet Master |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | 207 cu in (3.4 L) OHV Chevrolet Stovebolt 6 cylinder[14] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 113.5 in (2,883 mm)[15] |
| Curb weight | 3,300 lb (1,500 kg) |
Prior to the first-generation Suburban, in 1933, the Chevrolet Master had offered a station wagon body built on the 1/2-ton truck frame. This model was specifically built for National Guard and Civilian Conservation Corps units. Much of the body was constructed from wood and could seat up to eight occupants.
The actual first-generation model was offered by Chevrolet as a "Carryall Suburban" – a utility vehicle featuring a station wagon body on the chassis of a small truck. Focused on functionality, the concept was indeed to "carry all": the whole family and their gear were to find sufficient space in one truck.[6] It shared the front sheet metal and frames of the half-ton pickup models of the same year, but featured all-metal wagon bodies differing very little in shape from contemporary "woodie" station wagons.
Seating for up to eight occupants was available, with three in the front row, two in the middle row, and three in the rear row. Either the side-hinged rear panel doors or a rear tailgate/lift window could be selected for cargo area access while only having two doors for passenger access.[6]
| 1941–1942, 1946 | |
|---|---|
 1941 Chevrolet Carryall Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1941–1942, 1946 |
| Assembly |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | AK Series |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine | |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual[17] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 116 in (2,946 mm) |
| Length | 196.625 in (4,994 mm)[17] |
Suburbans were built in model years 1941, 1942, and 1946. It was also produced during World War II as a military transport vehicle.[18][15] Seating for up to eight occupants was available. Models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116." The Chevrolet versions were equipped a 216-cubic-inch 6-cylinder engine. The GMC version was equipped with a 228-cubic-inch 6-cylinder engine. It shared much of its mechanicals with the AK Series trucks.
| 1947–1955 | |
|---|---|
_(cropped).jpg) 1952 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1947–1955 (First Series)[19] |
| Assembly | Baltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland[20] Janesville Assembly, Janesville, Wisconsin Leeds Assembly, Leeds, Kansas City, Missouri Norwood Assembly, Norwood, Ohio Oakland Assembly, Oakland, California (Chevrolet & GMC) Pontiac, Michigan (GMC only) St. Louis Truck Assembly, St. Louis, Missouri (Chevrolet & GMC) North Tarrytown Assembly, North Tarrytown, New York Van Nuys Assembly (Van Nuys, California) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | FR layout |
| Platform | Advance Design |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission |
|
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 116 in (2,946 mm)[21] |
| Length | 196.375 in (4,988 mm) |
This model generation was based on the Chevrolet Advance Design series of pickups.
Beginning in 1953, the Hydra-Matic 4-speed automatic transmission was available in GMC models and in the 1954 model year Chevrolet Suburbans. Models with rear panel doors were designated "3106," while those with tailgates were designated "3116." In 1952, the Suburban came with either a tailgate or panel doors.[15] The front bench seat was split, with two seats on the driver's side and a single seat on the passenger side, which slid forward for access to the rear two rows of seats. The second row was a "2/3" seat, requiring occupants to move past the front passenger seat, as well as the second-row seats to access the third row.
This was the last series to feature "canopy express" models.[22]
The design of the 1947 Suburban would inspire the design of the Chevrolet HHR over half a century later.[23]
| 1955–1959 | |
|---|---|
.jpg) 1955-1959 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Model years | 1955 (Second Series)[24]–1959 |
| Assembly | Baltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland Janesville Assembly, Janesville, Wisconsin Lakewood Assembly, Lakewood Heights, Atlanta, Georgia Leeds Assembly, Leeds, Kansas City, Missouri Norwood Assembly, Norwood, Ohio Oakland Assembly, Oakland, California (Chevrolet & GMC) Pontiac, Michigan (GMC only) Van Nuys Assembly, (Van Nuys, California) Willow Run Assembly, Ypsilanti, Michigan (1958–1959) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Platform | Task Force |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, 4-speed Hydra-Matic automatic[27] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 114 in (2,896 mm)[28] |
Updated engineering and styling on Chevrolet trucks was not introduced until March 25, 1955, in the middle of the model year that GM called the Chevrolet Task Force/GMC Blue Chip series. All Chevrolet and GMC truck models received new styling that included a flatter hood, front fenders flush with the body, and a trapezoid grille.[15] The trucks' V-shaped speedometer was shared with passenger car models.[29]
Engines included I6 and the small-block V8s. Chevrolet used its 265 V8 engine, later evolving it to a 283-cubic-inch version. GMC based their V8 on a Pontiac 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.[30][31]
The "Suburban" name was also used on GM's fancy 2-door GMC 100 series pickup trucks from 1955 to 1959, called the Suburban Pickup, which was similar to the Chevrolet Cameo Carrier, but it was dropped at the same time as Chevy's Cameo in March 1958 when GM released the new all-steel "Fleetside" bed option replacing the Cameo/Suburban Pickup fiberglass bedsides. The Suburban name was never used again on a 1/2 ton pickup after the discontinuance of the Suburban Pickup. Although not documented because of a fire that destroyed the records, the production of Suburban Pickups is understood to be 300 or fewer each model year it was offered from 1955 to 1958.
The styling of the 1960–1961 model year took cues from the late-1950s Chevrolet vehicles and had large oval ports above the grille. An independent front suspension was new for 1960.[33] The cab featured a "wrap around" windshield, while tailgate and panel door rear openings were available.
From 1962 onwards, the hood styling was more conservative, with hoods that eliminated the large ports. In 1964, the front glass area was updated to a flatter windshield and larger door glass. 1,150 lb (520 kg) of cargo could be carried in the back.[34]
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.
Engine options included straight-sixes and small-block V8s. A 305 cu in (5.0 L) GMC V6 engine was also available on GMC models. This 305 was actually from GMC's medium-duty truck line. It featured high torque but had notoriously poor fuel economy. Transmissions were a 3-speed and 4-speed manual, the automatic Powerglide, and in the GMC models, the dual-range Hydra-Matic from 1960 to 1962.
A 15-passenger conversion was done by Stageway of Fort Smith, Arkansas. These modified Suburbans had three doors on the right, a 171 in (4,343 mm) wheelbase, were 273 in (6,934 mm) long, and weighed 6,300 lb (2,858 kg).[15]
One-ton (C-30), 10-foot (3 m) panel truck models were no longer available after 1966.
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In 1964, Chevrolet in Brazil introduced a 5-door version of the Suburban called C-1416 (known as Veraneio from 1969 onwards, which is Portuguese for "summertime"). It was based on the contemporary Brazilian Chevrolet C-14. Like the C-14, the C-1416/Veraneio used the instrument cluster from the U.S. C/K series, although the exterior sheet metal layout is exclusive to Brazil. It was initially powered with a Chevrolet 4.2L inline-six based on the pre-1962 "Stovebolt" engines. Later, it used the 250 cu in (4.1 L) engine from Chevrolet's Brazilian mid-size sedan – the Opala. The original version of the Veraneio was kept in production, with another grille and interior, until 1988 (1989 model year), but it was eventually replaced with an updated version based on the Série 20 family.[35] The second generation of Veraneio was produced from 1989 to 1995.
In 1997, GM introduced the then-current North American pickups to the Brazilian market, replacing the long running C-series. The Brazilian version of the Suburban was also converted to the current generation at the time and lasted until 2001 as the "Grand Blazer", succeeding the Veraneio. The 4.1L inline-six engine with 138 hp (101 kW) was offered on both models with option for a MWM 4.2L turbodiesel unit with 168 hp (124 kW).
In 2015, Autoweek ranked the Veraneio fourth among Chevrolet station wagons never sold in the U.S. It also cited the vehicle's design as "baroque" and summed it up as "a 1960s Brazilian crossover." Autoweek noted that the Veraneio is eligible for import to the United States under the 25-year exemption.[36]
| 1967–1972 | |
|---|---|
 1968-1972 GMC Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | GMC Carryall |
| Model years | 1967–1972 |
| Assembly | Flint Truck Assembly, Flint, Michigan Fremont Assembly, Fremont, California St. Louis Truck Assembly, St. Louis, Missouri Oshawa Truck Assembly, Oshawa, Ontario, Canada |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style |
|
| Layout | |
| Platform | C/K series |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | 3-speed manual, 4-speed manual, Powerglide, Turbo-Hydramatic[38] |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 127 in (3,226 mm)[15][39] |
| Length | 215.5 in (5,474 mm)[39] |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | Chevrolet Van (for panel truck models) |
The sixth-generation Suburban debuted alongside the "Action-Line" generation of C/K trucks. Growing in size over its International Travelall rival, the Suburban moved from a 115-inch to a 127-inch wheelbase (shared by pickup trucks with 8-foot beds). In another change, a 3⁄4-ton C-20 Suburban was introduced for the first time. Alongside the standard rear-wheel-drive configuration, 4×4 K-10/K-20 models were also offered.
In a configuration distinct to this generation, Action-Line Suburbans are configured with a single driver-side door and two passenger doors. For 1969, the Suburban was joined by the shorter K5 Blazer (GMC Jimmy), a two-door utility vehicle with a lift-off hardtop.
The rear-wheel-drive Suburban was also available as a panel truck for commercial purposes. Following the 1970 model year, the configuration was retired, with the model functionally replaced by the G-Series Chevrolet Van/GMC Vandura for 1971.
Through its production, the Action-Line Suburban shared a large amount of mechanical commonality with its pickup-truck counterpart, sharing the same powertrain offerings. A 250-cubic-inch inline-6 was standard, with a 292-cubic-inch inline-6 offered as an option. Small-block V8s initially were 283 and 327 V8s (later 307 and 350 V8s); a 396 (402) V8 served as a big-block V8 offering. GMC Suburbans were fitted with a 305 V6 as a standard engine until 1970.
Sharing the styling revisions of Action-Line pickup trucks, the Suburban introduced front disc brakes for 1971.[40] Automatic-transmission vehicles received an optional tilting steering column.[41] For 1972, the optional rear-seat air conditioning was redesigned with a smaller housing (previously fitted with a housing that ran the full length of the roof).
The Action-Line Suburban was produced alongside the rapid growth of the recreational vehicle market in the late 1960s. While only about 6,200 Suburbans were produced for 1967, by 1972, production had grown to approximately 27,000.[citation needed] Alongside the retirement of the panel truck configuration, this generation marked the final use of the GMC Carryall name.
| 1973–1991 | |
|---|---|
 1989-1991 GMC Suburban V-1500 Series | |
| Overview | |
| Also called | GMC Suburban |
| Model years | 1973–1991 |
| Assembly | Flint, Michigan (Flint Truck Assembly) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Layout | |
| Platform | C/K series |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 129.5 in (3,289 mm) |
| Length | 219.1 in (5,565 mm) |
| Width | 79.6 in (2,022 mm) |
| Height |
|
| Curb weight | 5,837 lb (2,648 kg) |
For 1973, the Suburban became part of the Rounded-Line C/K series, with both the Chevrolet and GMC divisions adopting the Suburban nameplate. Growing nominally in size over its Action-Line predecessor, the seventh-generation Suburban completely abandoned its carryall past, introducing a station wagon–style body with four full passenger doors (more than a decade after its Wagoneer and Travelall rivals). As the term "sport-utility vehicle" was more closely associated with off-road vehicles (such as the K5 Blazer), GM designated the Suburban as a truck-based station wagon.[42][43]
From the rear of the passenger doors, the Suburban shared its bodywork (both its doors and roofline) with the C/K crew-cab pickup (a new configuration introduced for 1973). The 1⁄2-ton and 3⁄4-ton 10 and 20 payload series made their return alongside the rear-wheel-drive C-series and 4×4 K-series. Alongside the long-running twin-panel rear doors, the Suburban adopted an optional tailgate-style rear door with a retractable rear window (lowered manually or electrically).[42][44]
Initially offered in Custom, Custom Deluxe, and Cheyenne Super trims,[45] the Chevrolet Suburban adopted a base Custom Deluxe, mid-level Scottsdale, and flagship Silverado trim nomenclature for 1975. GMC Suburbans were initially Custom, Super Custom, and Sierra Grande;[46] in 1975, Sierra Classic replaced Super Custom.[47] In 1981, GMC replaced Custom with Sierra.[48] A rare variant for both Chevrolet and GMC was the Estate option package, offering woodgrain exterior trim (in line with sedan-based wagons); the option was offered through the 1979 model year.[49]
Though technically fitted with only with a front bench seat as standard equipment, the Suburban was offered in multiple interior configurations, offering up to nine-passenger seating. Bucket front seats became a front-seat option in 1978, with the third-row seat changed to a quick-release design (without tools) for 1979.[50]
The Rounded-Line Suburban shared the same exterior revisions of its pickup-truck counterpart. Along with minor revisions in 1975, 1977, and 1980, the model line underwent a more substantial revision in 1981, followed by updates in 1983 and 1985.[51]
The Suburban shared several engines with the C/K pickup truck line. A 250-cubic-inch inline-six was the standard engine through 1979. The model line was offered with a 307- (1973 only) and 350-cubic-inch small-block V8s; a 454-cubic-inch big-block V8 was optional in C-series Suburbans. For 1976, the 350 V8 was joined by 305- and 400-cubic-inch V8s; the latter was discontinued for 1981. For 1980, V8 engines became standard for the model line, with the 305 returning as the standard engine for 1981. For 1982, GM introduced a 6.2L Detroit Diesel V8 as a higher-efficiency alternative to the 454 V8.[52]
A 3-speed manual transmission was offered through the 1980 model year, with a 4-speed manual offered through 1987. Initially offered with 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 and 400 automatic transmissions, a 4-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 700R4 became an option in 1981.
For 1980, K-series Suburbans moved from full-time four-wheel drive to a part-time system, allowing the front axle to freewheel.[53] For 1981, the shift-on-the fly 4×4 system adopted automatic-locking front hubs; the NP208 transfer case replaced the NP205 in most examples.[54][55]
For 1987, GM redesignated the Rounded-Line C/K series as the R/V series to accommodate the launch of the 1988 GMT400-platform C/K trucks, which were being launched in the spring of 1987. For 1987, the gasoline engines of the model converted from carbureted fuel delivery to electronic fuel injection (using throttle body injection/TBI). For 1988, the 5.0L engine was dropped from the line, with the 5.7L V8 becoming the standard engine. In a trim revision, the R/V line adopted the nomenclature of its GMT400 successor, with all vehicles adopting the 1500/2500/3500 payload series (previously used by GMC) and the base Custom Deluxe trim retired and replaced by a revived Cheyenne trim.
For 1989, the exterior underwent its largest revision since its 1973 introduction. Adopting a style similar to the GMT400, the black-painted grille was offered with quad headlights (economy trims were equipped with two). After using the same design nearly unchanged since 1973, the steering wheel was replaced (adopting the same design as the GMT400).[53]
For 1990, the Suburban introduced power-operated sideview mirrors, also adding the option of rear-wheel ABS. Alongside the Suburban and Blazer/Jimmy, the R/V line was pared down nearly exclusively to 1-ton crew-cab pickup and chassis-cab trucks.
For 1991, the 4-speed 700R4 automatic transmission was replaced by the electronically-controlled 4L80-E unit. After an 18-year production run, the Rounded-Line Suburban ended production as GM shifted crew-cab pickup trucks and full-size SUVs to the GMT400 platform for 1992.
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| GMT400 | |
|---|---|
 1995 GMC Suburban 1500 | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Model years |
|
| Body and chassis | |
| Platform | GMT410/425 |
| Chronology | |
| Successor | GMC Yukon XL (for GMC Suburban) |
The GMT400-based Suburbans were introduced in December 1991 for the 1992 model year. The C/K pickup had already switched to the newer platform in 1987 for the 1988 model year. Both 2WD and 4WD models were offered, as well as half-ton and three-quarter-ton ("1500" and "2500") models.
The GMT400 series introduced an independent front suspension. 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. The GMT400-series Suburbans underwent steady but minor changes from 1994 until production ended in favor of the ninth generation Suburban in October 1999. This generation was also imported from Mexico to Australia and New Zealand by Holden; fitted with right-hand-drive it was sold as the Holden Suburban between February 1998 and January 2001 with various minor changes.[56]
| GMT800 | |
|---|---|
 2000–2006 Chevrolet Suburban | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production | October 1999 – March 2006 |
| Model years | 2000–2006 |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Wayne Cherry (1996) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Layout | Front engine, rear-wheel drive / four-wheel drive |
| Platform | GMT830 |
| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
|
| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 130.0 in (3,302 mm) |
| Length | 219.3 in (5,570 mm) |
| Width | 78.8–79.8 in (2,002–2,027 mm) |
| Height | 73.3 in (1,862 mm) (2000–02 Chevy 1500 4WD) – 77.1 in (1,958 mm) (Yukon XL 2500 4WD) |
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The GMT800-based Suburbans were introduced in late December 1999 (Texas-only) and January 2000 (nationally) for the 2000 model year.[58] They were sold in two series: 1/2-ton 1500 and 3/4-ton 2500, although unlike past models, exterior badging was no longer used to distinguish between them. Suburbans came in Base, LS, and LT trims. Optional was a push-button 4WD with a low-range transfer case. A tow hitch with a trailer wiring plug was optional.
For 2000, Chevrolet's long-serving 5.7L and 7.4L V8 engines were retired along with the 6.5L diesel (except in Mexico, until 2002). New engines were the LS-based 5.3L Vortec for the 1500 series and 6.0L Vortec for the 2500 series.
Where Chevrolet kept the Tahoe/Suburban branding, GMC renamed its GMT800 products Yukon and Yukon XL, a change that continues to the present day. The shorter 116" wheelbase became the Yukon and the full-length 130" wheelbase became the Yukon XL. Yukons were built in SLE, SLT, and Denali trims.
New features included:
| Year | Engine | Power | Torque | RPO Code | VIN Code (8th Digit) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000–2003 | 5.3L Vortec 5300 V8 | 285 hp (213 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 325 lb⋅ft (441 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | LM7
L59 (flex-fuel) |
T
Z (flex-fuel) |
Power and torque ratings are on regular gasoline.
Flex-fuel option available from 2002 to 2006. |
| 2004–2005 | 295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 330 lb⋅ft (450 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2006 | 295 hp (220 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 335 lb⋅ft (454 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2001–2002 | 6.0L Vortec 6000 V8 | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 365 lb⋅ft (495 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | LQ4 | U | GMC Yukon Denali and 2006 Suburban LTZ only. |
| 2003 | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 5000 RPM | 365 lb⋅ft (495 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2004 | 325 hp (242 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 365 lb⋅ft (495 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2005–2006 | 335 hp (250 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 375 lb⋅ft (508 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2000 | 6.0L Vortec 6000 V8 | 300 hp (224 kW) @ 5000 RPM | 355 lb⋅ft (481 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | LQ4 | U | 2500 only.
2000 models used cast-iron heads. |
| 2001–2003 | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 5000 RPM | 360 lb⋅ft (490 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2004 | 325 hp (242 kW) @ 4000 RPM | 369 lb⋅ft (500 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2005 | 325 hp (242 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 365 lb⋅ft (495 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2006 | 335 hp (250 kW) @ 5200 RPM | 375 lb⋅ft (508 N⋅m) @ 4000 RPM | ||||
| 2001–2003 | 8.1L Vortec 8100 V8 | 340 hp (254 kW) @ 4200 RPM | 455 lb⋅ft (617 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM | L18 | G | 2500 only. |
| 2004 | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 4200 RPM | 445 lb⋅ft (603 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM | ||||
| 2005 | 320 hp (239 kW) @ 4200 RPM | 440 lb⋅ft (600 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM | ||||
| 2006 | 325 hp (242 kW) @ 4200 RPM | 447 lb⋅ft (606 N⋅m) @ 3200 RPM |
In addition, a Vortec 5700 350 cu in (5.7 L) L31 V8 remained in use in 2000–2002 Suburbans, Tahoes (called Sonora), and Silverado pickup trucks in the Mexican market.
| GMT900 | |
|---|---|
.jpg) 2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
|
| Production | January 2006 – December 2013 |
| Model years | 2007–2014 |
| Assembly |
|
| Designer | Wayne Cherry (2002) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Body style | 4-door SUV |
| Layout | |
| Platform |
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| Related | |
| Powertrain | |
| Engine |
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| Transmission | |
| Dimensions | |
| Wheelbase | 130.0 in (3,302 mm)[60] |
| Length | 222.4 in (5,649 mm)[60] |
| Width | 79.1 in (2,009 mm) |
| Height |
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| Curb weight | 2,540–2,857 kg (5,600–6,299 lb)[61] |
The 2007 model year Suburban and Yukon XL were unveiled at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show in January. Production of the redesigned GMT900 Suburban and Yukon XL began at Janesville Assembly and Silao Assembly in January 2006 (Suburban) April 2006 (Yukon XL), with the vehicles arriving at dealerships in April 2006.
The new models were redesigned with more modern and rounded styling,[60] already seen on the previously released 2007 Tahoes and Yukons. For the first time, the SUVs did not share any exterior parts with the pickup trucks except for the doors. The exterior features a more aerodynamic shape, made partly by a steeply raked windshield angle.
The interior had a redesigned dashboard and improved seats. It still retained its 9-passenger seating availability, which was available on LS and SLE models only. LT2 and LT3 models have leather seating and available 6-, 7-, and 8-passenger seating. A Z71 package was available on LT2 and LT3 models which included two-tone leather seats. All Mexican-built Suburbans including the 9-seat models offered the special two-tone leather seating used by the Z71. The Suburban LTZ came standard with a DVD player and a GPS-enhanced touchscreen radio.
For the 2010 model year, in which U.S. News & World Report ranked it as the number-one affordable large SUV,[62] the Suburban added a premium interior package that included tri-zone climate control and handy features like Bluetooth and rear audio controls. Additionally, radios added a USB port, allowing for music to be played from auxiliary devices through the radio, as well as charging other small electronics. Side blind zone alert became an option on LT and standard on LTZ. The 6.0-liter engine in the 2010 models was also flex-fuel capable. Minor front-end changes including a slightly raised front bumper and side torso airbags were also made standard for 2010.
In February 2010, Chevrolet unveiled a 75th-anniversary edition of the Suburban, which had the LTZ trim with white diamond tricoat exterior paint and cashmere interior, along with standard 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, revised roof rails, integrated navigation radio, XM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth phone connectivity, rearview camera, rear park assist, remote starting, adjustable pedals, and leather upholstery with heated/cooled front seats. According to Chevrolet, only 2,570 units of this special edition would be produced because of the amount of white diamond paint GM could procure.[63]
The 5.3-liter and 6.0-liter engines were improved, and a new 403-horsepower (301 kW; 409 PS) 6.2-liter Vortec V8 was added for the Yukon XL Denali. The 8.1-liter engine was dropped.
For the 2011 model year, the Suburban added three new exterior colors to the lineup: Mocha Steel Metallic, Green Steel Metallic, and Ice Blue Metallic. More features became standard on each trim, with the rear audio system, Bluetooth, floor console/storage area, woodgrain interior, luggage rack rails, body-color exterior door handle/mirror caps, and premium-cloth front bucket seats now standard on the LS trim, and chrome recovery hooks, two-speed transfer case, and 20-inch chrome wheels standard on LTZ 4WD models. In addition, the trailering package featured the trailer brake controller as standard on all trims.[64]
For the 2012 model year, trailer sway control and Hill Start Assist become standard on all trims, while the LTZ trim added a heated steering wheel as standard.[65] Also, the LT1/2 options for the Suburban and SLE1/2 and SLT1/2 options on the Yukon XL were discontinued, leaving the Suburban with only an LS, LT, and LTZ trim and the Yukon XL with an SLE and SLT trim. In 2012, GMC celebrated its 100th anniversary by releasing a special edition of its Yukon XL, offering a Heritage Edition trim package.[66] This was the final year that three colors, Graystone Metallic, Gold Mist Metallic, and Blue Topaz Metallic, would be offered, along with the all-season blackwall P265/65R18 tires.
For the 2013 model year, two new colors were offered: Champagne Silver Metallic and Blue Ray Metallic (extra charge). Also new was Powertrain Grade Braking, normal mode. The 2013 model arrived at Chevrolet dealers in June 2012.[67]
For the 2014 model year, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starter system, and rear parking assist along with rear vision camera and inside mirror with camera display became standard on the Suburban LS trims. Concord Metallic (which was supposed to be available for the 2013 MY) was added to the Suburban color offerings for the 2014 models.[68] For the Yukon XL, a convenience package became standard on its SLE models, along with a new color, Deep Indigo Metallic.[69] In February 2014, The Suburban came in second behind the Tahoe among the top-ranked large affordable SUVs by U.S News & World Report.[70] This would be followed by being acknowledged as an award recipient in the large SUV category by JD Power and Associates in July 2014.[71]
The three-quarter-ton model's towing capacity is 9,600 lb (4,400 kg), being one of the best of any 4×4 SUV and unmatched by any other SUV. The towing capacity of the Suburban 2500 was unmatched, but also uncontested because of the discontinuation of the Ford Excursion in 2006. The three-quarter-ton model also has a GCVW of 16,000 lb (7,300 kg).
The 2500 Suburban was originally sourced from Silao, Mexico, from 2007 to 2008 but was moved to the Arlington, Texas, assembly plant for the 2009 model year, where production of all GM fullsize SUVs was consolidated after the closing of the Janesville plant.[72][73]
GM discontinued the 2500 versions of both Suburban and Yukon XL models after the 2013 model year.[74][75]
| GMT K2YC/G | |
|---|---|
 2015 Chevrolet Suburban LT | |
| Overview | |
| Also called |
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| Production | December 2013–December 2019 |
| Model years | 2015–2020 |
| Assembly | Arlington, Texas, U.S. (Arlington Assembly) |
| Designer | Louis "Chip" Thole, Warrack Leach, Alexandre Henriques, Tyler Moffatt, Fawad Jamil[76] |
| Body and chassis | |
| Layout | |
