2010 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 in Joliet, IL - $10,114

When looking for exceptional power, cargo space, passenger room and towing capacity, the full-size Chevrolet Suburban delivers. The folks at the sign of the bowtie worked overtime to assure that GM's largest (and most profitable) SUV remains both competitive and relevant in the cutthroat American marketplace.

Built in the automaker's manufacturing plants in Janesville, Wisc., and Silao, Mexico, the Suburban 1500 is available in LS, Z71 and LT trim levels and two- or four-wheel drive configurations. The Vortec 5300 V8 is the only powerplant offered for the half-ton model and is bolted to a Hydra-Matic four-speed automatic with overdrive and tow/haul mode.

At speed, the Suburban 1500 is impressively responsive, capable and easy to drive, despite its large size. Its high driving position is a definite plus for short drivers. Sophisticated, advanced, smooth and comfortable, the Chevrolet Suburban is the super-sized solution when an above average vehicle is needed to handle the demands of the daily dispatch.

Attention to body and chassis stiffness by Chevrolet engineers contributes to great ride and handling characteristics. Body-on-frame construction serves as the rigid foundation for the large Chevrolet SUV. Starting with a strong modular frame, the Suburban features hydroformed frame rails. Hydroforming the rails optimizes the dimensional stability of the steel during the manufacturing process.

Consumers can choose from four different suspension choices to meet their needs: Premium Ride, Autoride, Firm Ride and the Z71 for off-road situations. Suspension hardware includes an independent front torsion bar and self-leveling rear five-link coil spring which make the large Chevrolet truck agile and predictable in a variety of real-world situations.

Inside the cabin, Chevrolet engineers paid careful attention and it shows. The driver enjoys a commanding view of the road through a large windshield with an upward viewing angle for reading signs and seeing traffic lights. A full complement of displays, controls and switchgear are driver-friendly and easy to read and operate. Seating is comfortable and all occupants benefit from plenty of room in almost every dimension.

Standard side steps are combined with second row hand grips secured to the 'B' pillars facilitate entry and exit. The second row is also a 60/40 split fold down -- the seat cushion flips up and out of the way while the seatbacks fold flat with the cargo floor -- removal of the headrests is not required.

Nooks, crannies and cupholders galore throughout the cabin facilitate everything from stowing a big cup to packing mom-critical stuff in the large center console storage bin. The rear liftglass opens independent of the liftgate for quick access. The rear liftgate opens fully to facilitate complete access to the cargo area.



Quick vehicle stats

Wheelbase: 130.0; overall length: 219.3; width: 78.8; height: 75.4 -- measurements in inches.

Engine: 5.3L -- 295 hp at 5,200 rpm and 335 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.

Transmission: Hydra-Matic 4L60-E, four-speed electronically controlled automatic with overdrive and tow/haul mode.

EPA fuel economy: 2WD -- 15 city/19 hwy.; 4WD -- 14 city/18 hwy., using regular unleaded gasoline.

Cargo capacity: 45.7 cu. ft. (behind third row); 90.0 cu. ft. (behind second row) and 131.6 cu. ft. (behind first row).

Payload capacity: 1,732 lbs.

Towing capacity: 8,400 lbs.

Safety features

Dual front airbags, fog lamps, automatic headlamp control, daytime running lamps, side-door beams, battery rundown protection, four-wheel disc Hydro-Boost brakes with anti-lock, StabiliTrak vehicle stability enhancement system, tire pressure monitor, full-size spare tire, power automatic door locks with lockout protection, OnStar communications system, remote keyless entry and PASSLock theft deterrent system. 4WD models add front tow hooks. Z71 adds power adjustable pedals, HomeLink universal transceiver, heavy-duty locking rear differential and off-road skid plates.

Optional safety features include traction assist, front seat side impact airbags and navigation system.

Warranty

Basic: 3-year/36,000 mile, bumper-to-bumper.

Corrosion: 6-year/100,000 mile.

Roadside assistance: 3-year/36,000 mile, 24-hour.

Pricing

The base Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 SUV starts from $38,670 for the 2WD model and $41,470 for 4WD. Destination charges add $850.

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