2010 Chevrolet Suburban

2010 Chevy Suburban

Chevrolet New Model

2010 Suburban

Chevrolet Suburban Performance - What the Auto Press Says

Though the Suburban's size may give some buyer pause, reviewers say that it is relatively easy to live with around town. While any large SUV requires extra care to drive, the Suburban is outfitted with a range of powerful engines, as well a suspension that helps make it easier to handle than other large SUVs.

* "[Ride quality is] among the best of any SUV, crossover or traditional truck-type. Suburban exhibits car-like comfort over bumps and isn't prone to floaty motions like their shorter counterparts." -- Consumer Guide

Acceleration and Power

The half-ton Chevrolet Suburban comes with a standard 5.3-liter V8 engine. On the three-quarter ton model, the 6.0 is standard. The 5.3-liter makes 310 horsepower with 335 pound-feet of torque. The 6-liter makes 352 horsepower with 382 pound-feet of torque. Most reviews find the 5.3 adequate and say the bigger engine might appeal to those who need the power for heavy-duty towing.

All engines come with GM's Active Fuel Management System, intended to improve the notoriously gas-guzzling truck's fuel economy. The system works by switching automatically from eight to four cylinders when full power is not needed, and improves fuel economy by about 10 percent. Most reviewers seemed impressed, especially given that the system doesn't sacrifice power. The 5.3 liter 2WD V8 gets an estimated 14 miles per gallon in the city and 20 on the highway, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. The 5.3 liter 4WD "E85 FlexFuel Engine," which is available as an option on the 2WD, gets an EPA estimated 14 miles per gallon in the city and 19 on the highway, but can operate with either unleaded gas or a cleaner-burning though less efficient ethanol/gasoline mix. The 6.0 liter 2WD and 4WD get an EPA estimated 12 miles per gallon in the city and 17 on the highway. For 2010, the 6.0 liter engine is also flex fuel capable. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, and, depending on configuration, the Suburban can tow up to 9,600 pounds.

Handling and Braking

The 2010 Chevrolet Suburban draws nearly universal praise for its improved steering and handling capabilities, with some reviewers saying the Suburban offers a best-in-class ride.

* "Among the best of any SUV, crossover or traditional truck-type. Suburban exhibits car-like comfort over bumps and isn't prone to floaty motions like their shorter counterparts." -- Consumer Guide
* "This Suburban rides and handles much sweeter than any before it: less undulation and more precision." --New Car Test Drive
* "Smooth ride and enough ground clearance for dirt roads; ponderous but competent dynamics." -- Car and Driver
* "But despite its size, the Suburban boasts decent road manners," -- Edmunds
* The Suburban was "composed when traversing the various washboard surfaces we came across in our Death Valley-adjacent photo locale."-- Motor Trend