2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban: Road Test

With the 5.3-liter V8, all Suburban 1500 models have fine power from any speed. Transmissions shift smoothly, though some testers have complained of delayed downshifts with the four-speed automatic. Towing capacity with the Suburban 1500 is 8200 pounds (versus 7700 for the Tahoe and 9700 for the Suburban 2500). Ethanol-blended fuel, called E85, is available in most states and can be less expensive than regular-grade gasoline. E85 can be used in versions of the Suburban with the 5.3-liter V8 engine. Differences between the Suburban and the smaller Tahoe aren't great. A test Suburban 4WD LT averaged 15.0 mpg. GM recommends regular-grade fuel for the 5.3-liter and 6.0-liter V8s. Ride quality ranks among the best of any SUV, whether crossover or traditional truck-type. Like the Tahoe, Suburbans with 17-inch tires exhibit car-like comfort over bumps and, unlike their shorter counterparts, they aren't prone to floaty motions over dips and swells. GM's Autoride suspension (available for LT models with the 6.0-liter engine) quells some float, but does not add demonstrably to ride comfort. Available 20-inch tires transmit minor road imperfections more readily than the standard 17s. Suburbans react alertly to steering inputs. While some testers have said the steering is too sensitive at highway speeds-especially with available 20-inch tires-all agreed that it lacks the sloppiness that plagued the 2000-2006 generation. These are tall, heavy vehicles, however, so don't expect nimbleness. On the plus size, there's no excessive body lean in turns with the base suspension, and even less with Autoride. Low-speed maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. Brakes feel strong, though some testers would have preferred better pedal modulation. Quietness is a Suburban virtue. Moderate highway-speed wind rush is evident, but there's no undue road noise. Powertrains are models of refinement. Gauges are large, but some testers have found markings too indistinct for best legibility. Most controls are logically placed and operate with precision. The optional navigation system has a large, easy-read touch screen, and absorbs but does not complicate audio functions. High marks go to Chevrolet for this model's upscale contemporary cabin ambience, and assembly with strong attention to detail. Most interior materials feel high-grade, though soft-touch surfaces are scarce. Whether bench or buckets, Suburban seats are supportive. Head- and legroom are generous, though the bench seat's cramped center position should be reserved for emergency situations. Available power-adjustable pedals would be a convenience for shorter drivers. A rearview camera, if installed, aids aft visibility but distorts distances, compromising its usefulness. Second-row seats are spacious in all models. If the spring-release option happens to be installed, second-row seats spring forward to ease access to the third row, though passage is still tight and seats must be manually restored to the original position. The third row is best left to children; its low-to-floor cushion forces knees-up discomfort for anyone else. High step-in hinders entry/exit. Cargo space is ample behind the third-row seat. Folded third-row seatbacks rest well above the level of the rear load floor, complicating loading of larger items. Third-row seats unlatch easily, but are heavy and cumbersome to remove. Once removed, space becomes cavernous. Cabin storage is enhanced by a large center console bin. Roomy door pockets are installed in front, but none in the rear.

Value for the Money
GM's 2007 redesign of its large Chevrolet and GMC SUVs addressed the most egregious flaws of their 2000-2006 predecessors: sloppy steering and subpar interior appointments. For smooth power, utility, and surprising overall refinement, these are first-rate trucks. The smaller Tahoe might be the more prudent choice, but both models rank as Best Buy values among large SUVs. A carefully optioned LT makes a particularly fine choice.