The Suburban has been a go-to vehicle for those needing a large SUV for decades. The new 2021 model is actually kicking off the twelfth generation of this iconic ride. With two strong V8s and a diesel engine to choose from, it appeals to those who want capability along with practicality and family-friendliness. The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban aims to be even hardest to resist than before.
What's New for 2021?
A brand-new rear independent suspension is the biggest news for the 2021 Suburban. This move was made not only to improve ride quality but to also free up extra space in the third-row. It also gives the Suburban a larger cargo area. Additionally, the Suburban is longer, another thing that helps to increase the interior volume. The Duramax diesel engine becomes an option for 2021 and brings along with it an impressive amount of torque.
Performance Facts
The Suburban makes no secret of the fact that it prioritizes power over efficiency. For its standard engine, Chevrolet goes with a 5.3L V8 with the ability to produce 355-horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Optional is a 6.2L V8 that has the capability to make 420-horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. This engine is exclusive to the High Country trim level.
Available later in the year will be a turbocharged 3.0L inline-six diesel engine. It may only make 277-horsepower, but it matches that larger V8 when it comes to torque. All three potential engine choices get a 10-speed automatic transmission to work with.
Off-Road Capability
Four-wheel drive is available on all trim levels with the exception of the Z71, on which it comes standard. The Z71 has several other performance-enhancing features as well, such as all-terrain tires and an improved approach angle. Further adding to the ruggedness of this trim is a front skid plate and front tow hooks. A two-speed transfer case and hill descent control round out the upgrades found in the Z71.
Interior Space
Sitting inside the new 2021 Suburban reveals a spacious and comfortable cabin. Both the second and third rows of seating have a couple of extra inches of legroom compared to last year's model. For the entry-level LS, seating for eight people is standard. Exclusive for this trim is the ability to swap the front seats out with a bench in order to up the seating capacity to nine.
The maximum cargo capacity of the Suburban is also now a whopping 145 cubic feet. Throw in the fact that the loading floor is now lower as well as flatter and it is easy to see how practical the Suburban is.
Safety
A forward-collision mitigation system comes standard on all models of the 2021 Suburban. This is a combination of forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking. A variety of more sophisticated features join the standard equipment list as buyers work their way up the trim ladder.
For the Premier trim, the 2021 Suburban adds lane-keeping assist and a blind-spot monitor. Going all the way up to the High Country trim level will mean getting a head-up display. This ultimate version of the Suburban also has a rear pedestrian alert system and a surround-view camera system.
Technology
Chevrolet recognized that a large SUV would need a large touchscreen to go along with it. That is why all trim levels get a 10.2-inch screen that runs both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Buyers who want cutting-edge tech features only have to go up to the second trim, known as the LT. Here they will find both wireless device charging and a nine-speaker sound system from Bose.
Of course, higher trim levels add even more tech. The Premier and High Country trims are equipped with a 10-speaker stereo setup. Select models can also add a rear-seat entertainment system.
Comfort and Quality
All models of the Suburban offer sophistication and high-quality materials. With the exception of the entry-level LT, all models have heated front seats as well as an auto-dimming rearview mirror. These trims also have memory settings for the driver's seat, something that comes in very handy for families with multiple drivers.
The RST trim has unique stitching on the upholstery to help it stand out. Going with a Premier model gives the second-row two captain's chairs rather than a bench. This reduces the seating capacity down to seven but also increases comfort. It also makes it easier to access the third-row. Those same models add ventilation to the already heated front seats.
With the ability to seat up to nine and plenty of standard features, the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban has everything that families need. This is definitely one worth taking for a test drive.
Formula for Calculating Dealer Cost:
Total Dealer Cost - Rebate and Incentive + Taxes / Licensing Fees = True Dealer Cost. (You can get rebates and incentives here)
Note: All Chevrolet Suburban 1500 MSRP, invoice and dealer cost dollar figures above are approximate amounts. Prices are subject to change without notice.
A note about rebates: Most rebates are subtracted from the "on the road" figure. In most cases, you can have the rebate if you are arranging your own financing or you are paying cash. If you decide to use the manufacturer’s low interest financing, you do not usually get the rebate. Ask your dealer for details.
