Summary
- The Chevrolet Suburban has a long history dating back to its origin as a utility vehicle in 1935. It has evolved over the years, becoming a luxury family car and off-roader with a dedicated following.
- The Suburban has appeared in over 1,750 films and television shows since 1952, making it an iconic and recognizable vehicle, particularly in action-packed scenes.
- It has undergone several generations, each bringing new features and improvements. The latest 12th generation Suburban boasts a robust design, a spacious interior, and advanced technology, making it the largest and most luxurious SUV in its lineup.
The Chevrolet Suburban nameplate was first introduced on a utility vehicle in 1935. It was known as the “Carryall Suburban” and could carry up to eight people, featuring an all-steel body construction. It was a station wagon body on Chevry’s 1/2-ton truck chassis. Since then, the Suburban has evolved into a large luxury family car and occasional off-roader, with 12 generations and a dedicated following. From hip-hop moguls to soccer moms, the Chevrolet Suburban appeals to a wide demographic.
Beyond its humble beginnings, the Suburban was the first car to get its own Hollywood star due to its appearance in over 1,750 films and television shows since 1952. The Suburban has become more capable under the hood, while retaining its brawny appearance to stay competitive against other full-size SUV models. Today, the Suburban is a versatile family car that can handle rough roads and highways with ease.
In order to provide the most up-to-date and accurate information, the data used for this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and authoritative sources, including Car and Driver and GM Authority.
Early Days Of The Chevy Suburban
By the mid-1950s and on through the 60s, the Suburban grew in dimensions with a new design for the 4th generation debuting in 1955, offering customers the option of a small block V-8 engine. There was competition from the Ford Bronco and the Jeep Wagoneer, which were more off-road-centric. In response, Chevrolet also offered the option for four-wheel drive through a NAPCO conversion.
The Northwestern Auto Parts Company (NAPCO) sold 4×4 conversion kits for traditional 2WD tractors, trucks, and SUVs. Chevrolet eventually offered a 4×4 drivetrain as an option from the factory in 1960. The sixth generation Suburban, released in 1967, had a stretched wheelbase and a refreshed design. It introduced a three-door body variant, enhancing accessibility and versatility, and a three-quarter-ton-rated version joined the lineup, broadening the Suburban’s appeal.
The Most Popular Design Of The Suburban Debuted In 1973
The 7th generation Suburban was first introduced in 1973 and became one of the most popular designs for the nameplate. This version, part of the “Rounded Line” C/K series, remained largely unchanged for 18 years from 1973-1991.
By the 80s, the Suburban faced competition from off-roaders like the Jeep Grand Wagoneer, but its popularity continued to grow. In 1992, the Suburban underwent a significant transformation with the introduction of its eighth generation, featuring an independent front suspension system and updated luxury and technology features.
The Ninth-Gen Chevrolet Suburban Debuts In 2000
The Suburban underwent significant updates for its ninth generation, which debuted for the 2000 model year on the GMT-800 platform. The ninth-generation models were divided into two series: the 1/2-ton 1500 and the 3/4-ton 2500, offered in Base, LS, and LT trims. Notable optional features included a push-button 4WD system with a low-range transfer case and the availability of a tow hitch with a trailer wiring plug. In 2001, Chevrolet introduced the option for their OnStar system in the Suburban. Moreover, the 2500 model boasted a powerful 8.1-liter V-8 engine, initially making 340 horsepower and 455 pound-feet of torque.
The Suburban’s tenth generation, introduced in 2007, showcased a departure from its boxy design and embraced softer lines for a more modern look. It brought notable technological advancements, including features like a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and parking assist.
In 2015, Chevrolet introduced the 11th generation of the Suburban, which was in production until 2020. It utilized the GMT “K2YC” platform, maintaining its traditional body-on-frame chassis structure and shared its platform with other vehicles like the GMC Yukon XL and the Cadillac Escalade ESV.
The 2021 Suburban Debuts As The Largest And Most Spacious SUV Yet
The 12th generation Suburban, released in 2021, marked a significant milestone. Built on the same GMT T1XX platform as the Silverado 1500, this Suburban received a substantial redesign. Its interior exudes luxury, while the exterior adopted a more rugged and robust appearance. Noteworthy advancements included introducing a Diesel option, featuring a 3.0-liter engine delivering 277 horsepower and an impressive 460 pound-feet of torque.
The Z71 off-road trim level made a return in 2021, featuring an updated bumper, skid plate, and off-road tires. The top-of-the-line 12th Gen Suburban is the High Country variant, the most expensive Suburban Chevrolet offers at $79,745. The standard engine is a 6.2-liter V-8 churning out 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, with the option for a 3.0-liter six-cylinder diesel engine with 277 horsepower.
2023 Chevrolet Suburban Specs
| Engine | 5.3-liter V-8 |
| Engine Output | 355 horsepower/383 pound-feet of torque |
| Transmission | 10-Speed Automatic |
| Tow Rating | 8,300 Pounds |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 28 Gal. |
| Ground Clearance | 8.0 inches |
| Fuel Economy | 17 City / 15 Highway / 20 Combined |
| Starting MSRP | $59,095 |
(Specifications sourced from Chevrolet)
The 12th generation of the Suburban boasted a more robust and upright design, complemented by the introduction of direct-injected engines that enhanced fuel efficiency and offered additional space compared to other GM SUVs.
Toyota Has Manufactured 300 Million Cars in 88 Years
In August 1935, Toyota manufactured its very first vehicle, the G1 pickup truck. This truck was assembled by the automotive production division of Toyoda Automatic Loom Works. Initially, the company was focused on producing automatic looms and was founded in 1926. However, in 1937, the car production division became a separate entity known as the Toyota Motor Corporation. Interestingly, Toyota Industries still produces automatic looms in 2023.
Now, fast forward to today, where Toyota is celebrating a significant milestone in its history. After 88 years since the production of its first truck, Toyota proudly announces the production of 300 million cars. Although the announcement was made today, this impressive accomplishment was actually achieved by the end of September.