2009 Chevy Suburban Review

　　

zzdcar' Expert Review

by the zzdcar Experts

　　

What’s new

　　Numerous equipment changes make their way onto the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban. Mechanically, there's a new, more efficient six-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard on all 1500 models. Inside, all trim levels now get the 50/50-split third-row bench and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The navigation system now comes with real-time traffic capability, and the nav system is now optional on the midlevel 1LT trim. All trim levels get a choice of two optional rearview cameras. A third-row DVD screen is now an available add-on for the rear entertainment system. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line LTZ trim level gets standard heated and cooled leather seats and an upgraded audio system, as well as an optional blind spot warning system. Finally, models with the heavy-duty tow package have a new integrated trailer brake controller.

　　

zzdcar says

　　The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is a compelling choice for those who need a traditional full-size SUV with maximum capacity. We just wonder how many people really do.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.04 per gallon for regular unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$228/mo  for Suburban 1500 LS

　　Suburban 1500 LS

　　LS 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $40,370 MSRPLS 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $43,215 MSRPLT1 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) (Most Popular) - $41,380 MSRPLT1 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $44,225 MSRPLS 2500 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $41,980 MSRPLS 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $44,820 MSRPLT1 2500 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $42,970 MSRPLT1 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $45,815 MSRPLT2 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $43,905 MSRPLT2 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $46,750 MSRPLT2 2500 4dr SUV (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $45,495 MSRPLT2 2500 4dr SUV 4WD (6.0L 8cyl 6A) - $48,340 MSRPLTZ 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $50,615 MSRPLTZ 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 6A) - $53,460 MSRP

　　vs

　　$229/mo

　　Avg. Large SUV

　　

Vehicle overview

　　More than seven decades after its introduction, the Chevrolet Suburban is still virtually unmatched when it comes to space and utility. As always, this behemoth people carrier uses a traditional body-on-frame truck chassis with a solid rear axle. But despite its size, the Suburban boasts decent road manners, helped in part by a smooth V8 engine.

　　This year, all 1500 models get a new six-speed automatic transmission, which cruises at lower revs -- the result of which, Chevy claims, is increased fuel economy. The top-of-the-line LTZ, which previously was more of an equipment group, becomes its own trim level this year, and is stocked with plenty of features. Other notable additions include an optional third-row DVD screen and two rearview camera options -- one in the rearview mirror and the other integrated into the optional navigation system.

　　We'll forgo any discussion of the Suburban's gas mileage -- it's bad, you know it. But, for those who truly need nine-passenger seating capacity and a whole load of cargo space, the Suburban is really only matched by its GMC Yukon XL clone and a few full-size vans. The Ford Expedition boasts similar dimensions to the Suburban, but while the Ford offers slightly more torque, it only seats eight and is shy on horsepower in comparison to its competitor. There's also the Toyota Sequoia, which has plenty of brawn but not as much room as the Suburban. Overall, those needing tons of interior space as well as enough oomph to tow heavy loads will find a lot to like about the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban.

　　

Performance & mpg

　　Chevrolet offers three engine choices on the 2009 Suburban 1500. Most versions come standard with a 5.3-liter V8 that makes 310 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. On the 2LT and LTZ trim levels, a 6.0-liter V8 that pumps out 366 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque is optional. All 1500 engines are paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission.

　　Suburban 2500 models also come standard with a 6.0-liter V8, but it's a slightly different variant; it's rated at 352 hp and 382 lb-ft of torque. It's matched to a six-speed automatic as well, though it's geared for enhanced towing capability. With either the 1500 or 2500 model, buyers have a choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive. An automatic locking rear differential is optional on all trims except the LTZ, on which it's standard. Properly equipped, the Suburban 2500 can tow up to 9,600 pounds.

　　Combined fuel economy for the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban ranges from about 14 mpg combined to 16 mpg combined, depending on the model and the engine. Obviously, towing and driving with a heavy load can drop these numbers significantly.

　　

Safety

　　Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard on all Suburbans, as are stability control and GM's OnStar emergency communications system. A three-row side curtain airbag system with a rollover sensor is standard on all Suburbans. A new blind-spot warning system is also available on the LTZ trim. In government crash tests, the Chevy Suburban was awarded a top five-star rating for its protection of occupants in both frontal and side-impact collisions.

　　

Driving

　　The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is fairly quick for its size and can get to 60 mph in less than 9 seconds. However, the 5.3-liter V8 Suburban doesn't feel nearly so quick when carrying a load of passengers. And with a hefty curb weight of anywhere from 5,600 to 6,300 pounds, the Suburban, not surprisingly, doesn't feel nimble around city street corners. But the cabin is quiet at speed, and the ride is comfortably controlled over bumps. When superior passenger and cargo space is needed, there aren't many better SUVs than the 2009 Suburban.

　　

Interior

　　Like other cars in GM's portfolio, the Suburban's interior has greatly improved over the years. Materials quality is good and controls are logically laid out. With its standard third row, the 2009 Suburban can seat up to nine people -- a total surpassed only by full-size vans. Although the Suburban's second row is available with a power-folding feature, the third-row seats must be removed manually to optimize cargo space. Based on our experience, those dense seats feel like they're constructed of depleted uranium and removing them requires not only a strong back but the ability to wrestle them out from deep inside the interior. Cargo capacity is immense, however, with a maximum of 137.4 cubic feet -- 17 cubes bigger than a Toyota Sequoia and a full 40 cubes larger than a Nissan Armada.

　　

2009 Chevrolet Suburban models

　　The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban full-size SUV is available in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 models, each available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. All are available in the base LS and the midlevel LT (with two equipment subcategories, 1LT and 2LT). The top-shelf LTZ model is available as a 1500 only.

　　The LS comes standard with 17-inch wheels, side assist steps, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, full power accessories, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, dual-zone climate control, rear seat air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an eight-speaker audio system with CD player, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The 1LT trim level replaces the front split bench with front bucket seats and adds foglamps, luggage rack rails, rear audio system controls with two headphone jacks and additional power outlets (for a total of five). The 2LT package adds tri-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with six-CD changer, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starting, a universal home remote and rear parking assist.

　　The Suburban LTZ gets 20-inch wheels, a power liftgate, a heated windshield washer fluid system, rain-sensing wipers, the Autoride rear air suspension, a locking rear differential, leather upholstery, upgraded heated and cooled front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-folding second-row seats with heat, and an upgraded 10-speaker Bose surround sound system. Many of the features that are standard on upper trim levels are available on the lower levels as options. Other major options for the Suburban include 22-inch wheels, a heavy-duty tow package (now with an integrated trailer brake controller), a navigation system, power-retracting running boards and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.

　　

2009 Suburban Highlights

Trim: 1500 LS1500 LT12500 LS2500 LT11500 LT22500 LT21500 LTZ1500 LS

　　

Base MSRP	$40,370
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	16 MPG
Cost to Drive	$228/month
Seating	9 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	45.8 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	3 years / 36,000 miles