2005 Chevrolet Suburban Half-Ton | Review | Buying Guide
For the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban, it’s business as usual. It enters the year with many of the tried features intact that have had allowed it to endure for so long. In particular, it continues to offer two rugged powertrain configurations, and plenty of interior room for passengers and cargo.
The 2005 Suburban is available as a ½-ton model and in a larger ¾-ton version (covered in a separate review). A third-row bench seat is standard with all Suburbans, providing up to nine passengers with the opportunity to sit back and enjoy the ride.
There are plenty of changes to the 2005 Suburban. For starters, last year’s swing-out rear cargo doors are dropped in favor of a liftgate with opening glass. In addition, touchscreen navigation radio is now available, and the OnStar driver safety and security system, featuring Gen 6 hardware with analog/digital coverage and upgraded hands-free capabilities, is standard on all equipment groups.
Under the Hood
The standard engine with the 2004 ½-ton Suburban is a 5.3-liter Vortec V8 model. It will pump out 295 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 330 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Mated to this pumping heart is a 4-speed electronic automatic transmission. Of course, 2WD and 4WD are both offered.
Available with ½-ton Suburbans is the StabiliTrak system. If the system determines that the vehicle is not responding appropriately to the driver's steering, StabliTrak precisely reduces engine torque and applies precise amounts of pressure to the individual front brakes to slow the vehicle and help bring it back to its intended path.
For 2005, the Z71 off-road package is extended from 4WDs to 2WDs. It features unique wheel flares, body trim and special shock absorbers, and it adds 17-inch wheels in place of 16s.
Standard Features, Options Packages and Style
There are two trim levels this year—LS and LT. The navigation system is optional for all but LS models. It includes a touch screen integrated with a new audio head unit.
Rear DVD entertainment, satellite radio, and load-leveling rear suspension are optional. Power-adjustable pedals are available for LS models, standard otherwise.
Uplevel LT models receive plenty of comfort appointments. Some of the standard features include the OnStar system, a Bose AM/FM radio with in-dash 6-disc CD changer, leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control and an outside-temperature indicator.
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