Suburban Power Steps

The 2008 Suburban is the ultimate SUV -- whether you are carrying children or cargo-- thanks to the designers who added a few more tweaks to boost this vehicle's durability, performance and overall feeling of security. It may be a little too boxy in shape but it still proportioned accordingly. Handsomely, many may say.

This year’s Suburban Chevrolet offers two models: the half-ton Suburban 1500 and three-quarter-ton Suburban 2500. The 1500 SUVs feature a 5.3-liter, 320-hp V8 with cylinder deactivation to improve fuel economy. This is paired with a 4-speed automatic. 2500 SUVs get a 6.0-liter V8 that delivers 352 or 366-hp, depending on whether its an iron or aluminum block engine. This engine gets a new 6-speed auto tran for 2008.

The 2008 Suburban is available in three trims (base LS, LT, and performance-oriented LTZ) and two load ratings -- the 1500 half-ton or 2500 three-quarter ton. Whatever choice you make, all models offereither rear-wheel or all-wheel drive and seat up to nine in three rows. Safety features include ABS brakes, traction and stability control, rollover protection, and dual front airbags. What is new, though, is that all trims get side head curtain airbags for all three rows, and StabiliTrak is now standard on both light and heavy-duty models.

The Suburbran is definitely not as luxurious as its peers. Still, it has many eye and ear candies to offer. These include OnStar, a CD player, and power front seats, and options add expected features such as a DVD player, power running boards, a sunroof, and rearview camera. The off-road package likewise features stronger shocks, larger off-road tires, skid plates, and a more aggressive front end. The 2008 Suburban rates high for durability, safety, and a quiet ride, but the lack of flat-folding seats seems like a large oversight in this day and age.