Sure, the Suburban name predates WWII and has come to be one of the best-known SUV models, but Chevrolet thinks it's time this truck is associated with more than durable utility.
Hence the addition of the RST Performance Edition, a more potent variant that moves up to the Suburban for 2019 following its introduction last year on the smaller Tahoe.
This package, available as an option on the top-end Premier trim, brings a 6.2L V8 good for 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque along with a 10-speed automatic transmission and a sport-tuned version of the magnetic ride control suspension that already makes this massive utility drive like one two-thirds the size.
Otherwise, the Suburban is carried over from 2018, so all trims (LS, LT and Premier) start out with a 5.3L V8 that makes 360 hp and 380 lb-ft and comes matched with a six-speed automatic and a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive.
If you dig the look of the RST but don't want the bigger engine, LT and Premier trims can be optioned with an RST appearance package also carried over that brings black exterior trim, a set of sharp 22-inch wheels and an upgraded suspension with air leveling.
Notably, Chevrolet offers the Suburban with seven, eight or nine seats, the nine-seater being one of the only vehicles still available with a three-place front bench seat. The same is true of the smaller Tahoe, but if you want big legroom and usable cargo space when all three rows of seats are occupied, this is the version to go for.
Other Suburban siblings include the GMC Yukon SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups.
As is often the case with Chevrolet truck and SUV models, the Yukon is technically a competitor, along with the Ford Expedition XL. For the money, the Suburban offers a lot more space and luxury features for the money than, say, a Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class or an Audi Q7. Still, if image is what you're after, one of those German models might be more your speed, along with Britain's Land Rover Range Rover.
LS trimmed models come with a locking rear differential, rear park assist, OnStar guidance plan, heated side mirrors, 18-inch wheels, six-speaker MyLink infotainment stereo, 110-volt power outlet, automatic climate control, front bucket seats (a three-place bench is an option), leather-trimmed steering wheel, tilt steering, cruise control, keyless entry and a backup camera.
LT trim add forward collision alert, automatic high-beam headlights, power tailgate, nine-speaker stereo, auto-dimming rearview mirror, tilt-and-telescopic steering, lane keep assist and power-adjustable pedals.
Move up to Premier trim for passive keyless entry with push-button start, magnetic ride control suspension, front park assist, power-folding side mirrors, 20-inch wheels, HID headlights, programmable-height power tailgate, 10-speaker stereo, navigation, power-release second-row bucket seats, heated second-row seats, heated steering wheel, power-adjustable tilt-and-telescopic steering and side blind zone alert with lane change alert and rear cross traffic alert.
Fuel consumption estimates are 15.1/10.4 L/100 km (city/highway) in 2WD models, and 15.3/10.9 L/100 km with 4WD. RST Performance Edition models are thirstier; as of this writing, Chevrolet hadn't published estimates for that 6.2L-powered variant, but expect figures in the neighbourhood of 16.6/10.7 L/100 km.
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
