2010 Chevrolet Suburban: Road Test

2010 Chevrolet Suburban 

Select a Trim ▼

  • MSRP: $40,635 - $55,625
  • Invoice: $37,791 - $51,731

View Another Vehicle

Our road test for the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban includes a full evaluation of the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2010 Chevrolet Suburban help you decide if a 2010 Chevrolet Suburban is right for you.

Advertisement

ACCELERATION

4WD LT Class Average
6 5.8

Note this evaluation is based on test drives of the Suburban 1500 with the 5.3-liter V8 engine and previous 4-speed automatic transmission. Suburban 1500 has fine power from any speed. The transmission shifts smoothly. No Suburban 1500s with the 6-speed automatic, 6.0 V8, or any 2500 have been made available for us to test.

FUEL ECONOMY

4WD LT Class Average
3 2.8

In Consumer Guide testing, a 4WD LT averaged 15.0 mpg. Suburban uses regular-grade gas, and the 5.3 V8 can also run on E85 ethanol.

RIDE QUALITY

4WD LT Class Average
8 6.3

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.

STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING

4WD LT Class Average
4 3.8

Suburban reacts alertly to steering inputs, but some testers say the steering is too sensitive at highway speeds, especially with the available 20-inch tires. These are tall, heavy vehicles, so none feel nimble, but there's no excessive body lean in turns. Low-speed maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. Brakes feel strong, but some testers want better pedal modulation.

QUIETNESS

4WD LT Class Average
7 6.6

Moderate highway-speed wind rush. No undue road noise. The 5.3-liter V8 is a model of refinement.

CONTROLS

4WD LT Class Average
7 6.1

The gauges are large, but some testers find their markings too indistinct for best legibility. Most controls are logically placed and operate with precision. The navigation system has a large, easy-read touch screen. It absorbs audio functions but doesn't complicate them.

DETAILS

4WD LT Class Average
7 5.9

High marks for Suburban's upscale, contemporary cabin ambiance. Assembly quality of models tested shows strong attention to detail. Most interior materials feel high-grade, though soft-touch surfaces are scarce.

ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)

4WD LT Class Average
9 8.8

Seats are supportive. Generous headroom and legroom, though the bench seat's cramped center position should be reserved for emergency situations only. Available power-adjustable pedals are a convenience for shorter drivers. The rearview camera aids aft visibility, but it distorts distances, compromising its usefulness.

ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)

4WD LT Class Average
8 7.8

Spacious 2nd row. An option for the 2nd-row seats allows them to spring forward to ease access to the 3rd row, though passage is still tight. The seats must be manually restored to their original position. The 3rd row is best left to children; low-to-floor cushion forces knees-up discomfort for anyone else. High step-in complicates entry and exit.

CARGO ROOM

4WD LT Class Average
10 9.8

Spacious behind the 3rd-row seat. Folded 3rd-row seatbacks rest well above the level of the floor, complicating loading of larger items. Third-row seats unlatch easily, but are heavy and cumbersome to remove. Once removed, space is cavernous. Cabin storage is enhanced by large center console bin. Roomy pockets can be found on the front doors, but there aren't any on the back.

VALUE WITHIN CLASS

4WD LT Class Average
10 8.2

For smooth power, utility, and surprising overall refinement, Suburban is a Best Buy choice. A carefully optioned LT is the best choice in the Suburban lineup, and is a strong value among large SUVs.

Total Score

4WD LT Class Average
79 71.9

Total Score: 79

Scores for all Large Sport-utility Vehicles

Low Score
62
Average Score
71
High Score
79

Car Buying Resources

Trade-in Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth.

Trade-in Calculator

Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer.

Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History Report. The first...

Get a CARFAX report

What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn Things

Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance

Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers.

Sell Your Car
Advertisement

Locate a dealer

Sell Your Car

Advertisement