Snapshot: The Chevy Suburban is a full-size, 4-door sport utility vehicle, a massive vehicle that seats nine adults. It's available in 2- or 4-wheel drive and as a 1/2- or 3/4-ton model. Optional Quadrasteer, a 4-wheel steering option, greatly improves maneuverability.
How Much Does it Cost?: Base prices range from $38,450 to $47,920.
The Inside Story: The Suburban seats 9 adults when you add a third row bench seat. Optional bucket seats are available in the first and second rows, bringing the total down to 7 should you opt for both. Zone heating and cooling gives front and rear passengers control of the temperature in their areas. An automatic heating and cooling system that provides even more comfort is optional.
Under the Hood: The Vortec 5300 5.3L V-8 is standard on half-ton models and available in either gasoline or ethanol-compliant versions. The Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8 is standard on the three-quarter-ton models. The Vortec 8100 8.1L V-8 is optional on the 2500 series three-quarter-ton models. Mileage: (EPA) The only fuel economy rating stated is for the models equipped with the Vortec 6000 6.0L V-8: 2WD at 14 City/18 Highway and 4WD at 13/17.
Transmission: All models are equipped with a 4-speed electronic automatic transmission. Gear ratios are designed for the specific model.
Warranty Information: 3 year/36,000 mile comprehensive warranty.
Should You Buy the 2004 Chevy Suburban?: The Suburban's size can be a pro or a con, depending on your needs. Most of us do just fine with a mid-size or slightly smaller full-size SUV (and pick up more features and better gas mileage). If you need a massive vehicle for hauling people and cargo, go test drive a Suburban--that's the only way to find out if you like its size and capabilities.
