2006 Chevrolet Suburban: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

Chevrolet largest SUV carries on with minor engine shuffling as a replacement waits wings. Suburban is a long-wheelbase of the Chevrolet Tahoe and a cousin to the GMC Yukon XL and Yukon Denali XL. Suburbans in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 models.

All offer LS, upscale LT, and off-road-oriented Z71 trim. New for '06 is an upscale LTZ option package for Suburban. All models have a liftgate with opening glass. A 3rd-row bench seat is standard for up to 9-passenger capacity. Second-row buckets instead of a bench are available with the LT, Z71, and LTZ packages. Front side airbags are optional. Head-protecting curtain side airbags are unavailable.

All models have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, automatic transmission, and a V8 engine. A 5.3 is standard on Suburban 1500s. Suburban 2500s use a 6.0 or optional 8.1-liter. The 6.0 is available for the first time in 1500 Suburbans as part of the LTZ package. The package includes all-wheel drive, unique trim, and 20-inch chrome wheels. All models offer rear-wheel drive or GM's Autotrac 4WD that can be left engaged on dry pavement and includes low-range gearing. GM's Stabilitrak antiskid system is standard for 1500 Suburbans; it is not available on 2500s. A navigation system is optional for all but LS models. GM's OnStar assistance is standard. The Z71 off-road package is available on 4WDs and 2WDs; it features unique wheel flares, body trim, and special shock absorbers, plus 17-inch wheels in place of 16s. Rear DVD entertainment, satellite radio, power-adjustable pedals, and load-leveling rear suspension are optional.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Large SUVs are traditionally workhorse 7-plus passenger wagons with brawny chassis, ample towing ability, lots of cargo space, and generally abysmal fuel economy. These vehicles offer towing and payload ratings similar to large pickup trucks.

Our Best Buys include Chevrolet Tahoe, Chevrolet Suburban, and Ford Expedition. Our Recommended picks are GMC Yukon, GMC Denali, and the Toyota Sequoia.