2008 Chevrolet Suburban Review

The Suburban is a large SUV that traces its lineage back to 1935. The modern Suburban started to take shape in 1973, with a four-door model capable of seating nine passengers. The current Suburban debuted for 2007 with improved body and suspension updates as well as a nicer interior. It’s one of the largest vehicles on the market.

The BuyingAdvice Team Says:

The Chevrolet Suburban may seem like a beast, but it’s a godsend for big families. Few other vehicles can carry the whole family, along with a month’s worth of essentials. However, its reliability record is spotty, and it doesn’t offer as much value as equally competent competitors. It’s an attractive option, but shop around before you commit.

What’s New For 2008:

Head side airbags are now standard. The 2500 now features stability control and a six-speed automatic transmission. Navigation is standard on the LT and LTZ.

What is the Predicted Reliability:

J.D. Power gives the Suburban 4 stars in overall quality. The last generation had issues with oil leaks, rough idling, low heater output and water leaks. It was recalled 15 times between 2000 – 2005 for issues including loose exhaust plugs, fracturing driveshafts, overheating fuel pump wires, brake failure and screw breakage. No recalls occurred in the past 2 years. Expect below average to average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.

Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:

The Suburban earned perfect government crash test scores. Other crash testing data is not available. Anti-lock brakes, head side airbags, rollover sensor, and stability control is standard.

Pros and Cons:

Pros
+ Spacious
+ Capable towing
+ Refined interior and exterior

Cons
- Back rows tough to get to
- Lousy reliability history
- Enormous

Head-To-Head Competition:

The Ford Expedition Limited includes traction control, leather seats, a CD changer and can tow more. The related GMC Yukon SLE costs a few hundred less, adds traction control and can tow more. The Nissan Armada costs about $3,000 less and has 40 more hp and can tow a bit more.

What Others Are Saying:

“Chevrolet’s long-standing (and just plain long) Suburban SUV gets a much-needed makeover for 2007, adding power, sophistication and features.” – Forbes

“GM’s biggest SUVs (Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon XL) are based on the company’s full-size pickups, which were vastly improved for 2007. There’s a lot of choice here, with numerous powertrain, trim-level, and equipment options. Standard safety equipment now includes roof-mounted, side-curtain airbags.” – Car and Driver

“It will still tow like a locomotive and keep as many as nine passengers happy while doing so. You can take your family and friends and houseboat to the lake in one neat swoop.” – The New York Times

Read more about the 2008 Chevrolet Suburban at the Chevrolet manufacturer web site.