2018 Chevrolet Suburban

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The Chevy Suburban has been near the top of the hill of large SUVs for decades. In some ways, this model has even influenced what a true full-size SUV is all about. In terms of capability and performance, the combination of powerful engine options and plenty of passenger and cargo space has made this vehicle a well-rounded, versatile SUV. It has also been an attractive option for any family with a lot of people wanting to travel around in comfort and style.
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban is no different. Taking cues from past successful designs, the 2018 model continues to represent the cream of the crop of what Chevy has to offer in the full-size SUV market. With a passenger capacity of seven or eight people, it is also one of the best options to choose when you have a lot of people to move around all at once. The 6,300-pound towing capacity makes the Suburban a capable workhorse as well.
If you are looking for a vehicle that is the perfect blend between a full-size, heavy-duty truck and a family sedan, the 2018 Chevy Suburban just might be for you. Starting at $50,200, the SUV is also competitively priced compared to other large vehicles. It may be the perfect option to consider when you need to increase performance, capacity, and reliability.
Starting At
$50,200
355
Horsepower
383 ft-lb
Torque
16 City / 23 Highway
Fuel Economy


Interior
As a full-size SUV, the Suburban is all about interior comforts that stand out from the competition. This category of SUV is difficult to judge since customers have different preferences for the interior experience. Some like a barebones approach that delivers the most important features without additional frills and accessories. Others appreciate a more complete package that includes convenience and safety features that make the overall riding experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
The different trim lines of the Suburban are meant to cater to people who want different things out of their SUV. Regardless of the trim, however, the basic interior layout remains largely the same. Three passenger rows give the Suburban a passenger capacity of up to nine people depending on the first- and second-row layouts. Bench seats increase the passenger capacity by allowing a third person to sit between others. Bucket seats decrease the passenger capacity to seven people but are more comfortable for long trips.
Cargo-wise, the Suburban is one of the best on the market for fitting items and equipment in the protected interior. When all of the seats are occupied, the Suburban offers a respectable 39 cubic feet of space. Folding the second- and third-row seats down actually triples the cargo space to 120 cubic feet of space. In this configuration, you can easily fit items normally reserved for a truck bed. Optional power-folding seats and a hands-free power liftgate are also available for better convenience when loading the suburban.
Technologically, the Suburban is geared towards large families that want to carry their electronic devices along for the ride. This SUV includes Chevy’s MyLink infotainment system through an eight-inch touchscreen display panel. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard. For entertainment, a rear-seat Blu-ray system is available along with a nine- or ten-speaker Bose audio system for excellent sound all around the cabin. Smart devices should feel right at home in this SUV with the standard Bluetooth connectivity, five USB charging ports, optional wireless charging, and a Wi-Fi hotspot all catering to the more connected family.


Design
Long gone are the days when the Chevy Suburban had the classic ambulance-style rear doors that offered unrivaled access inside. These days, the Suburban retains an updated look that mimics the appearance of an armored SUV. In fact, many high profile VIPs have chosen the Suburban as their personal ride (with the addition of some bulletproof layers) because of the bulk and reliability the SUV offers.
The main aspect of the Suburban’s design is a bulky appearance that favors convenience and utility over performance and aerodynamics. While other large SUVs try to retain some semblance of aerodynamic efficiency, the Suburban is all about utilitarian design. A high roof, large front facia, and a rear cargo compartment that rivals a small truck all make this SUV a dream to take onto the open road. In other words, it is hard to confuse the Suburban for anything else that large on the road.
With a mid-cycle update in 2015, little has changed in the Suburban’s overall exterior design. This model year features a new front fascia with minor tweaks on some trim lines. A new LED daytime running light system is standard across all the trims now. The upper trim and GMC’s equivalent, the Yukon Denali XL, both have a new front grille that improves performance and airflow into the engine. The 10-speed automatic transmission is also new for the 2018 model year.


Performance
The 2018 Chevrolet Suburban has the pedigree of a Chevy truck hidden underneath its more family-friendly, heavy-duty exterior chassis. Performance is where this full-size SUV truly shines since it combines a lot of passenger and cargo space with the same level of power as a full-size truck. The Suburban is part workhorse, part family commuter, and all-around reliable for families that want a single vehicle that will not fail.
The base engine option of the Suburban is a 5.3 L EcoTec3 V-8 that has a lot of power in its overall design. The engine increases efficiency from previous generations with a fuel rating of 16 city and 23 highway miles per gallon. At 355 horsepower, the engine is no slouch when it comes to capability either. The 383 pound-feet of torque gives the Suburban nearly 6,000 pounds of towing capacity for trailers and other large equipment.
As an optional upgrade for those wanting more power, a 6.2 L EcoTec3 V-8 engine is available. The horsepower increases to around 420 with a towing capacity of 6,300 pounds. Unfortunately, fuel efficiency does take a hit by a few miles per gallon. This engine is better suited for heavy-duty uses such as heavy hauling, towing, or going off-road where a more powerful powerplant is necessary for getting up hills and over obstacles.
The Suburban comes with either the more efficient rear wheel drive or all-wheel drive for better traction. A six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic transmission is also available depending on the driver’s personal preference. The combination of engine, drivetrain, and transmission largely depends on the specific trim and price that ranges from around $50,000 up to $68,000.