2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban: Full Review

Updated: 11/23/08

2007 Chevrolet Suburban
2008 Chevrolet Suburban
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2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban ▼

  • Price Range:  $19,800 - $33,500
CG Rating

72

out of 100

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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.

Pros

  • Interior materials
  • Ride
  • Seat comfort
  • Quietness
  • Control layout

Cons

  • Steering/handling
  • Fuel economy

Vehicle Highlights

More power, fresh styling, and new features highlighted the 2007 redesign of Chevrolet's two large sport-utility vehicles: the Tahoe and the longer half-ton Suburban. Also redesigned for 2007 were the closely related GMC Yukon and Denali, and their Yukon XL counterparts, plus the Cadillac Escalade-all of which shared this basic design. Despite little-changed exterior dimensions, all of these GM SUVs had more cargo space and rear passenger room than the 2000-2006 generation. Compared to Tahoe, the Suburban was about 14 inches longer in wheelbase, 20 inches longer overall, and had nearly 30 cubic feet more cargo volume. Both had a liftgate with opening glass. Each came in LS, LT, and luxury LTZ trim levels. Each offered buyers a choice of rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, which could be left engaged on dry pavement and included low-range gearing. Antilock braking and traction/antiskid control with rollover sensors were standard. Suburbans were similar to GMC's Yukon XL, as well as the Cadillac Escalade ESV. Rivals included the Ford Expedition EL and Toyota Sequoia. A 320-hp 5.3-liter V8 was standard in Suburban 1500s, with a 355-hp 6.0-liter V8 optional. The 5.3- and 6.0-liter engines had GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. Some versions of the 5.3 V8 could run on E85 (an ethanol/gasoline blend). The sole transmission was a four-speed automatic. Suburban 2500s, rated three-quarter ton, used a 352-hp, 6.0-liter V8 and a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard on the Suburban LTZ and available for the Suburban LT was GM's Autoride suspension, which included load-leveling and automatically adjusted firmness based on road and driving conditions. The LT also was available with Chevrolet's Z71 Off-Road Suspension Package. Passenger capacity ranged from five to nine, with two- and three-place seating available for any of the three rows. Curtain side airbags that covered all seating rows and included rollover deployment were standard with the LTZ and available for LS and LT models. Second- and third-row seats folded, and the third row could be removed. As in GM's other large SUVs, a spring-release option could flip the second-row seats to provide third-row access. Other new features included a rearview camera, power liftgate, power running boards, and rear obstacle detection. Also available were a navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, heated first- and second-row seats, and DVD entertainment. GM's OnStar assistance was standard.

Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category Suburban 4WD LT Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 8
Steering/Handling/Braking 4
Quietness 7
Controls/Materials 7
Interior Room 9
Room/Comfort (rear) 8
Cargo Capacity 10
Value within Class 10
Total Score: 72
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban.

Year to Year Changes


2008 Chevrolet Tahoe: Curtain side airbags became standard on all Suburban models for 2008. GM's antiskid system became standard on Suburban 2500 models.

Our road test for the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

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.

Expert Ratings Summary

Category Suburban 4WD LT Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 8
Steering/Handling/Braking 4
Quietness 7
Controls/Materials 7
Interior Room 9
Room/Comfort (rear) 8
Cargo Capacity 10
Value within Class 10
Total Score: 72

Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room, Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Tahoe includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Tahoe .

Trouble Spots

Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.

Audio system: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car's speakers whenever the vehicle's power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2007-08)

Coolant leak: Coolant (antifreeze and water) may leak from near the rear of the vehicle due to a clip in the coolant line connector breaking. (2005-07)

Coolant leak: A drive belt pulley may rub a hole in the radiator vent hose resulting in a coolant leak and possible overheating. (2007)

Electrical problem: Numerous electrical problems (door locks, power windows, speakers, courtesy lights etc.) may quit working because a wiring harness gets damaged by the seat belt. (2007)

None: The backup (rear vision) camera quits working due to an electrical connector coming loose. (2007)

Oil leak: An oil leak at the oil pressure sensor may cause the low oil light to come on and oil level to become low. (2006-07)

Wipers: The rear wiper may get damage or ripped off in automatic car washes due to the design of the wiper blade stop and a redesigned part is available. (2007)

Wipers: The one-piece wiper blades may streak when driving at slow speeds because they do not press firmly enough and should be traditional, bridge style blades. (2007-08)

Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs

This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $1,000
Alternator $600
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $3,900
Brakes $850
Constant Velocity Joints $1,150
Exhaust System $1,350
Radiator $600
Shocks and/or Struts $1,450
Timing Chain or Belt $1,000
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Tahoe details a range of prices in year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Prices Good Average Poor
2008
Suburban 1500 2WD $24,000-32,500 $22,300-30,200 $15,600-21,100
Suburban 1500 4WD $26,500-36,000 $24,600-33,500 $17,500-23,800
Suburban 2500 2WD $25,000-28,000 $23,300-26,000 $16,500-18,500
Suburban 2500 4WD $27,500-31,000 $25,600-28,800 $18,400-20,800
2007
Suburban 1500 2WD $21,500-28,500 $19,800-26,200 $14,000-18,500
Suburban 1500 4WD $24,000-30,500 $22,300-28,400 $15,600-19,800
Suburban 2500 2WD $22,500-25,000 $20,700-23,000 $14,600-16,300
Suburban 2500 4WD $25,000-28,000 $23,300-26,000 $16,500-18,500
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings; engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo, etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Tahoe include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.

Vehicle Dimensions

Specification 4-door wagon
Wheelbase, in. 130.0
Overall Length, in. 222.4
Overall Width, in. 79.1
Overall Height, in. 76.8
Curb Weight, lbs. 5745
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. 137.4
Standard Payload, lbs. --
Fuel Capacity, gals. 31.5
Seating Capacity 9
Front Head Room, in. 41.1
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 38.5
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 39.5

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Powertrain Options and Availability

Suburbans could have either a 5.3-liter V8 that produced 320 horsepower, or a 6.0-liter V8 rated at 355 hp (later 366 hp). Both engines teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission. A 352-hp version of the 6.0 V8 went into the Suburban 2500, with a six-speed automatic. Tahoes had a standard 4.8-liter V8. Either rear-drive or four-wheel drive may be installed.
Engines Size liters /
cu. in		 Horse- power Torque Transmission:
EPA city/hgwy		 Consumer Guide Observed
ohv V81 6.0 / 364 355-366 365-380 4-speed automatic: 12/17
6-speed automatic: --		 4-speed automatic: --
6-speed automatic: --
ohv V81 5.3 / 325 320 340 4-speed automatic: 14/19 4-speed automatic: 15.6

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models with 4WD. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Built In:  Mexico
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Tahoe include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.

NHTSA Crash-Test Results

Test 2008 Suburban
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.

Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 2007-2008 Chevrolet Suburban directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.

NHTSA Recall History

2007-08 Suburban equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system: A short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. This may cause other electrical features to malfunction, create an odor, or cause smoke, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge.

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