XXL Sized-Vehicle Fans’ Spooky Pre-Halloween Comparison: How Do Newer Suburbans Stack up Against Older ones?

Large-sized SUVs such as the Suburban are practical as well as righteously road-owning for so many of our well-appreciated customers at West Chevy of Knoxville, as the more your family or business interests grow, the more you need to haul! The Chevy Suburban is one of the nation’s favorite rides of all time and holds the acclaimed honors of being the longest-running model in American history. The Fast Lane Car put together an awesome test video on YouTube that offers up a bit of a pre-Halloween and hauntingly good comparison between the old and new. 

We’d have to admit that both models would be the ultimate means of getting the kids around the neighborhood for trick or treating, and any other invigorating pumpkin patch outing or family fall event! As shown in the video, the older Suburbans still make for amazing and very loyal vehicles, with one owner proudly claiming a trusty 296,000 miles on the odometer. Its notably large size, comfort, and all-around usefulness still yielded the family around 19 mpg, which is not at all shabby for a large and heavy old V8 number.

The older version then goes all-in and takes on an off-road style test course and impresses with its handling chops and fluid but durable driving style. The new 2022 Suburban uses an air-suspension equipped 10-speed top-of-the-line SUV with a capable and always road-ready 6.2-liter V8. Boasting 420 horsepower as well as heavily updated engine, there are more tech features and design touches that make it stand out from the old Suburban. Even though the older model has a tried-and-true sense of accomplishment and long-haul stamina, the 2022 model is going to give you a superior boost in terms of safety and infotainment goodies.

The updated model offers the luxury of a nice stitched interior trim, an infotainment display, and many other modern features like electrically dropping rear seats. For the instances when a Home Depot run is unavoidable, a 4x8 piece of wood still fits, proving solidly that its practical and “getting it all done” nature is still very much intact. During the very telling off-road portion of things, the 2022 model smoothly navigated the pothole-filled track easily, proving that the Suburban’s winning formula of ample space, practical chops, and rugged off-road ability is a winning combo as usual.

At the end of this necessary all-out comparison, the verdict not surprisingly favored the new model. Billed as “A Simple and Effective Beast with a Simple Mission”, the Suburban continues doing what it has been since 1935 with a distinct style and the same authenticity along with a 7,900-lb towing capacity. You can still easily fit 9 passengers across its three bench seats as you could during its early days, while enjoying the same visceral design language shared with the Silverado pickup and Tahoe SUV. 

We’d have to wholeheartedly recommend the Premiere Trim as well: it adds the useful assistance of blind-spot monitoring, lane change alert, front and rear parking sensors a 10-speaker Bose stereo, and navigation features all as standard equipment. You’ll also be traveling with the extra confidence and comfort of upgraded seating, power-folding second and third-row seats, ventilated front seats, and dual second-row captain’s chairs. The Luxury Package provides the enjoyment of a panoramic sunroof, rear camera mirror with integrated washer, and trailer brake controller.  

All-Black 2021 Chevy Suburban Street Concept Wows In Vegas

The 2021 Chevy Suburban Street Concept was introduced at the 2021 SEMA Show in Las Vegas. It begins with the High-Country Trim level and is dipped in black paint, which pairs nicely with the black interior treatment. It looks spectacular, and it is more than capable under the hood. It features a naturally aspirated 6.2-Liter V8 l87 gas engine, which cranks out 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. 

This concept is connected to a 10-speed automatic transmission, while Magnetic Ride Control Suspension with Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive components keep the ride balanced and smooth. For style points, the Street Concept is equipped with a new black grille that boasts the Chevy script, while a matte black hood decal adds even more blacked-out flair. 

It rides on a set of 24-inch custom-cut and polished billet aluminum wheels, which are wrapped in 33-inch 285/30 tires, and a two-tone polished and black finish along with black Bowtie badge center caps. Wheel size is leaning towards a larger and larger diameter, and as such, the Street Concept has upgraded Brembo brakes sporting six-piston front calipers.

As this fully detailed Suburban pulls away, you’ll notice a bow tie and quad polished exhaust tips, along with standard inner tail light graphics that draw attention to the vehicle’s height. The 12-generation Suburban is built on the GM T1 platform and is manufactured by the proud men and women of the Lone Star State in Arlington, Texas. 

Sizzling Summer World-Building Opp: Tahoe and Suburban Configurators are up and Running

Autoblog is one of our favorite news authorities here at West Chevy of Knoxville when it comes to the most current scoops, and they recently alerted us to the fact that the configurators for the 2021 Suburban and Tahoe are fully functional! As the temps heat up and it can feel good to stay inside for hours on end, you can build your optimal-featured vehicle, and learn about the two new models while you're at it. One interesting example that the testers used was that of an airport or Uber SUV chauffeur for the Tahoe.

They began with the basic black entry-level LT spec in 2WD and then added the Luxury Package for the driver convenience and assistance features. They then threw in the Rear Seat Media and Navigation package for the passengers' entertainment, then added a locking center console, cargo shade, and black Bow-tie emblems, after swapping up to 20-inch wheels for greater curb appeal. Years ago many customers would have to spend a greater amount of time at the dealer trying to figure out what worked well for them in the long run, and simply looking at pamphlets didn't always convey the finished product.

 

The initial Suburban build was for a man who runs survivalist and outdoor courses and began with the Z71 trim, Shadow Gray Metallic exterior, and Dark Atmosphere interior. With the Z71 package, you are locking in a spec of Max and Advanced Trailering packages, and black Bow-tie emblems. Then, without getting completely out of control, they stuck with the Luxury and Rear Media and Navigation packages.

For another Tahoe build, the customer was a typical Midwestern family. They began with 4WD Premier trim, and Graywood Metallic paint and Jet Black and Maple Sugar perforated leather interior to match. The Premium Package offers up convenience features like the 15-inch heads up display and the trailering tech for its ability to easily tow a boat. They then up the ante to 22-inch Carbon Flash wheels, and Rear Seat Media for the kids as well as a factory-official rooftop tent. It will be perfect for Minnesota lake weekends, and the High Country Trim offers power with the heftier 6.2-liter V8.

We love the fact that you can dig in deep and think about all of your options when it comes to these two, and customize the vehicle that will be your daily driver in the future. The Suburban is one of those iconic vehicles that has displayed a track record of reliability that is for the most part unprecedented, and the two are a pair to be reckoned with as far as any form of competition at all is concerned. We hope to see you soon here at West Chevy where we can answer any questions about ownership and financing, and selection of the model that is a perfect fit for you.

2021 Tahoe and Suburban Crush Numbers in MPG + Towing: Motortrend Offers up Raw Data

For the vehicles out there that are already a bit larger than average, it is always an exciting event when big improvements are looming on the horizon! Everyone here at West Chevy of Knoxville has always had a great love for these “two in troupe”, and their solid reputation for reliability. Both the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Full-size SUVs were featured on the Motor Trend blog this past week in an article highlighting fuel efficiency and towing stat improvements across the line. On top of more third-row legroom and cargo space, both heavy haulers will see a new multi-link independent rear suspension that drastically improves ride quality.

Brandishing the standard 5.3-liter V8, the Tahoe is now estimated to offer up 16 mpg in the city, 20 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. These figures mostly improve on the old Tahoe's, which with an earlier 5.3-liter V-8 topped out at 15/22/18 mpg (city/highway/combined) with rear-wheel drive and 15/21/17 mpg in 4-wheel drive. When putting to use the 6.2-Liter V-8, the 2021 Tahoe sees 15/20/17 mpg (city/highway/combined) with rear-wheel drive and 14/19/16 mpg with 4WD.

The gas engines carry over from the previous model year, but also see the benefit of new fuel management technology. The 5.3-liter V-8 cranks out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque, while the 6.2-liter V-8 resides at 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft. In the ever-important hauling category, the 5.3-liter V8 gives the Tahoe's standard towing capacity an extra 1,400 pounds, and the final number for towing capacity on the Tahoe is 8,400 pounds.

Both models will provide many of the awesome towing technologies we've seen on the Silverado, including rear camera guidelines for easy hitching, trailer tire pressure and temperature monitors, an integrated trailering app with remote trailer light test, and enhanced side blind zone alert for trailering. What many people are waiting to see is if the upcoming 3.0-Liter Turbodiesel engine will help us to beat sworn rival Ford Expedition's towing capacity of 9,300 pounds, as well as keeping it a step ahead of the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade stats.

When you are visiting us for a test drive of these two new models, keep in mind that there is a new Z71 trim level for the Suburban, and the top of the line High Country trim level is added to the lineup. It’s a bit like taking the old Suburban and creating a hybrid with the newest Silverado 1500 pickup truck, and the RST is one to keep your eye on: the custom sport model with unique front styling, a black ice grille finish, black and black chrome exterior detailing, and large wheels for a different sense of style and flavor!

2021 Suburban Deemed by Kelley Blue Book as “Class-Leading, Capable and Rugged”

Customers who are keen on seating for up to nine, power derived from a big V8, six trims to choose from and optional diesel engine have been coming in droves to snag up the massive Chevy Suburban for around 85 years now. The staff on duty at Kelley Blue Book are usually a pretty sure source of great information for anyone coming to look for a new vehicle here at West Chevy of Knoxville, and they cranked out a fantastic feature last week outlining the finer points of the 2021 Suburban model.

The Suburban comes standard with rear-wheel drive, with 4-wheel drive optional. Z71 Variants now offer it as standard. These trusty and hard-working vehicles are made in Arlington, Texas, alongside the GMC Yukon and Cadillac Escalade. This particular year marks the absolute full revamp for this sport utility vehicle whose name dates all of the ways back to 1935, and it's the largest SUV from this brand that outstretches its full-size relative in the form of the Tahoe. If you have a big, busy family in tow, this is going to be a go-to vehicle for you, still possessing the sturdy feel of a truck and boasting very powerful engine options that make it ideal for hauling duties.

The KBB staff claims that the new version of the Suburban has a larger amount of appeal due to fresher technology on board, additional safety features, and enhanced ride manners. Independent rear suspension is a huge help with the newly smoothed-out ride, and the Suburban further stands above the masses with its V8 engine as opposed to the Ford Expedition's twin-turbo V6. If it's your style, you can still opt for the GM 6-cylinder turbodiesel that is regarded for its efficiency and stellar towing ability.

There's absolutely a reason why huge hauling machines like the Suburban are the tried-and-true rulers of rural roads, wide-open spaces, and locations such as the Lone Star State, where the pastures, skies, and rivers are all that much bigger. Low-end grunt, amazing efficiency, and rigid body-on-frame design will always be traits of this model that arrives at the dealer in a variety of tastes. It has been decades since the Suburban was offered with a diesel engine, and this new one has the output and modernized steam-engine stance within the powertrain that many have been after. Cargo room is another category where the Suburban really sets itself apart: There is an enormous 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space even with the third row up.

Audio and climate controls up front have very visible and easy to use dials, and the standard touchscreen has followed current trends by growing to 10 inches. There is also a digital rearview mirror that uses a camera feed for a wide-open view and power-operated storage console situated in between the front passenger and driver. All models except the base LS now receive a hands-free power-operated liftgate, the High Country is by all means where you want to set your sights. This is the trim that provides for you the 6.2-liter V8 engine we love so much, a head-up display, surround-view camera, digital rear camera mirror, and rear pedestrian alert feature!

2021 Chevy Suburban RST Spied Solo on the Road Via GM Authority

The city of Detroit has always held much clout and candor when it comes to brand-new auto releases and has seen the presentation of many star-studded vehicles over the years. GM revealed the all-new 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe during a joint debut held in the motor city last year, flaunting the completely-overhauled SUVs that are available in six trim levels. The RST trim is the one that has gained much attention, due to its sportier stance and various custom touches. The staff on hand at GM Authority did already publish a blog giving curious auto enthusiasts a look at the 2021 Tahoe RST roaming around, but the 2021 Suburban RST has not been seen until now.

Based on the very popular mid-range LT trim level, the 2021 Suburban RST will add to the mix 22-inch wheels as standard, which is quite a bump up fro the 18-inch wheels that are now featured on LT and LS models. The only other 2021 Suburban model that has been able to boast 22-inch wheels as standard is the High Country, which rides on Sterling Silver premium painted wheels that also have chrome inserts. On top of new wheels, the 2021 Suburban RST also flaunts a new and unique front fascia that features a “black ice” grille finish.

The lettering, badging, and roof rails, as well as window trim, are all new, and once inside, the Suburban Rst features brand-new seats specified to the model with contrast-color stitching. The cabin also seeks a 4.2-inch diagonal color driver information center display as standard, and much of the remaining equipment is derived from the Suburban LT. Under the hood, the power is derived fro the naturally-aspirated 5.3 -Liter L84 V8 engine, that cranks out 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Diesel is an awesome option as always, utlilzing the 3.0-Liter I6 LM2 turbo-diesel Duramax engine, which is rated at 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.

When production begins for the 2021 Suburban, it will be proudly assembled at the GM Arlington plant in Texas, which has been operating at full steam since 1954. With nearly 3,000 employees, many hard-working Americans have been able to boast a production rate of 1,200 vehicles per day. This was also the plant that produced true gems such as the 1963 Chevy Bel-air, a very unique and memorable model in the journey back through time! 

This is a vehicle that strikes us here at West Chevy of Knoxville as big on capability, connectivity, and properly getting the job done. Both the Tahoe and Suburban now come with an independent rear suspension that allows for the best in handling and cornering, as well as an available first-in-class Four Center Air Ride Adaptive Suspension that has an expert's eye and high-tech touch while adjusting the vehicle's ride height.

2020 Chevy Suburban's Z71 Trim Level Closeup Via Motor1.com

Much to the excitement of many customers and us on staff right here at West Chevy of Knoxville, the covers were pulled away from the 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe a few weeks ago. This time, the pair of large SUVs really are “all-new”, and not just because of new metal enveloping the shell. There is an independent rear suspension underneath the three-row SUVs for the first time, and a report courtesy of GM Authority says the Z71 model is also going to be included in the lineup.

At the official debut for the two new SUVs, Chevy did reveal the Z71 edition of the Tahoe, but not formally as an available package. As the staff of Motor1.com reported on the blog last week, the Z71 is now a model trim, and will also exist for the larger Suburban. Since the Z71 package has been so wildly popular in past years, it makes sense for it to be available despite some reluctance to admit the release during the fall. Z71 is the means and package for a unit to become off-road ready. Expected would be the addition of height-adjustable Air-Ride suspension, skid plates underneath, and front fascia that makes for better clearance for approach angles.

It's also expected to see the presence of a monochromatic exterior treatment and grippy all-terrain tires, other additives that help with conquering off-road trails. When we have seen people from a distance off-roading on our various travels, sometimes you ask yourself, “Why are they going so slow? Can't they move just a bit faster over the tree roots and rocks in their way?” and the truth is until you have done serious off-roading yourself, it is hard to realize just how much damage you can do to your underbelly, and just how vital components such as the skid plates are during the drive.

Both vehicles will now boast an even more open and spacious cabin, a more comfortable ride, and six trims with their unique flair. There are the usual enhancements that Chevy has become such a class-leader with, such as nine best-in-class separate camera views, and the Rear Seat Media System with twin 12.6-inch displays. Tim Herrick, VP of global product programs said last year that “This program is unprecedented in size and scope, and amount of capital injected into it”.

At any one time during the new Suburban and Tahoe's development, 10,000 people were working on architecture to assure that these models were unique, durable, and dependable. The most fuel-efficient option is now going to be the new Duramax 3.0-liter I-6 turbodiesel that is available on all but the Z71. Chevy is alone in producing a full-size diesel SUV, and many will be sure to get excited enough to hastily call one their own for the New Year!  

Autoblog Crew Highlights 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Suspension Improvements

Here at West Chevy of Knoxville during the holidays, many of us and our families are itching to load up a new vehicle with our closest kin and hit the town for merriment! Knoxville offers so many different things to do during December: on New Year's Eve itself, the Knoxville Museum of Art is having their annual soiree with live music, dancing, food, spirits, and a fantastic view of the fireworks on Market Square. Great choices for a vehicle to haul your most fun friends around in are the 2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, and they both have big news in the suspension department.

As reported on Autoblog last week, this was a very important switch and improved the test drive this team spent with the SUVs greatly. Ride quality and utility are where the improvements are the most evident, where Chevy chose a four-link independent rear suspension design. It has three lateral arms, one longitudinal arm, coil springs, and a stabilizer bar. The front suspension incorporates the same hardware as the Silverado, but the tuning allows it to be ideal for a large SUV.

Traditional steel coil springs and passive dampers are standard, but buyers will be able to choose GM's Magnetic Ride Control dampers as well as a new Air Ride Adaptive Suspension. This is so exciting because inside is the next generation of Magnetic Ride Control, expected to be better than ever before. The Milford Proving Grounds was where the team was able to treat themselves to a spin in a pre-production 2021 Chevy Tahoe.

It felt more compliant and controlled than before over a range of rough road conditions, and was equipped with both the magnetic dampers and air suspension. Just minutes before, the group drove a Ford Expedition equipped with Ford's adaptive “Continuously Controlled Suspension”. The Tahoe offered up the trait of not being tossed around as much, and the load floor is lowered by 5.3 inches. This makes for more legroom and cargo room, and even third-row passengers will see great comfort on long hauls. The 2021 Suburban sees third-row legroom increased by 2.2 inches, and cargo space behind the third row by 1.8 cubic feet.

Both V8s use the very advanced Dynamic Fuel Management system, with the larger of the two cranking out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. The standard infotainment system for the Suburban is a 10-inch touchscreen, and an 8-inch digital screen in the instrument cluster comes as standard on Premier and High Country. If you are certain that long trips will be the norm for your business or family clan, be sure to check out the rear-seat entertainment package: here you see two 12.6-inch touchscreens mounted to the back of the front headrests.

2021 Chevy Tahoe and Suburban Poised to Dominate Lavishly Large Segment

During this time of year here at West Chevy of Knoxville, our thoughts are drifting to our favorite holiday desserts, classics such as “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer”, and loved ones finally getting to visit from far away. This is when many customers are coming to ask as about the various details and features regarding upcoming models, and begin to plan for which truck, SUV, or sedan will be fitting for them. Last year was good enough to us to bring about an all-new Silverado, and now it's time for large-size SUVs to follow suit and deliver the best in what buyers want in the way of new features. 

New LED lights as standard will be both on the front and rear of the 2021 Chevy Suburban and Tahoe, as well as 18-inch wheels. You'll have the choice of 9 exterior colors, and the wheelbase on the Suburban has 1.3 inches more length and a 4.1-inch stretch. The Tahoe boasts wheelbase expansion by an extra 4.9 inches, and length growth of 6.7 inches. Both of these new vehicles brandish a completely-new underside, and there is a massive upgrade in regards to the multi-link, independent rear suspension. With the solid axle no longer in place, ride quality is going to be much smoother, no matter what elements the weather and terrain condition brings. 

One of the most common concerns that those who are looking at the largest in vehicles have is about cargo space: how much is there inside for the times when you are leaving for longer than just the weekend? The new Suburban gains 19 percent in the back for a total cargo capacity weighing in at 144.7 cubic feet. Both new models also are equipped with sliding second-row seats that provide easier access to the back. To keep everyone in tow entertained, it is pretty imperative to have multiple displays in the back, and both of these new models have as many as five available. Among the five in selection is a standard 10-inch infotainment screen that now lays claim to being the largest in the category. 

It was not too many years ago when long trips that took the entire family away from town made the need for distractions such as books and board games to keep everyone in tow entertained. While those options are still an excellent way to keep passengers' minds off of how many miles are left in the journey, it is true that the digital screen has become the most frequently picked diversion. Rear-seat passengers in these two vehicles can now enjoy two 12.6-inch LCD displays, which allow for anyone not having to navigate the road the means to kick pack and enjoy their favorite form of online or pre-recorded content. 

For the incoming model, there is also the option to add the brand-new 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine, which cranks out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. When you know it is finally time to come down and see us here at West Chevy for a test drive, remember to inquire about the High Country trim level: it offers a visually distinct grille and 22-inch wheels that are the best Chevy “Holiday turkey-trimming treat” we've seen! 

GM Authority Highlights What's New and Different For 2020 Chevy Suburban

Loyal fans of the Suburban here at West Chevy of Knoxville have so many great reasons to profess their adoration of the vehicle: commanding and solid, it has the space and overall sensibility to be a daily driver and long-haul number. The all-new 12^th generation Chevy Suburban will launch for the 2011 model year, not the 2020 model year as originally reported. So, the current 11^th generation model lives on for one final year, and GM Authority eagerly doled out the scoop last week on its changes and updates.

The interior remains largely unchanged, and the deletion of a few packages is the major news: the All-Season Package and LT Signature Package will no longer be featured. The All-Season Package was available only on the LS model, and some of the items included were All-weather floor mats, All-weather rear cargo mat, and body-color bodyside moldings. The LT Signature Package was available only on the LT model and included elements such as the grille insert, chrome recovery hooks, and 20” x 9: chrome wheels.

As far as the exterior, changes are limited to the deletion of the Pepperdust Metallic color, as well as new finishes for two wheel sets: the 22-inch Gloss Black aluminum wheels with custom silver accents, and the 22-inch Bright machined aluminum wheels with Bright Silver Finish. The 2020 Chevy Suburban is expected to launch during the third quarter of the 2019 calendar year, and may see a bit shorter of a production run, as the all-new 12^th – generation model is expected to launch during the first half of the 2020 calendar year as the 2020 Chevy Suburban. The GM Arlington plant was recently re-vamped to have the ability to produce the all-new Suburban that is slated to be based on the T1 platform.

Once inside the new model, you'll love the car-like design with abundant soft curves and a high amount of soft-touch material and leather in the higher trims. There is an excellent arsenal of standard available features like an 8-inch touchscreen, 3-zone climate control, power front seats, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto.

We predict safety features such as available automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam headlights, and lane-keep assist to carry over into the new model, which are all technical features the IHS loves to see within its safety ratings umbrella. Stiff competition should be present in the forms of the Ford Expedition, GMC Yukon, and Nissan Armada. We hope you come to visit us here this summer and talk about the Suburban and any other vehicles on the lot that may suit your business or family: Chevy stands proudly behind every single vehicle release, and is excited to win your business with our pledge of loyalty and longstanding quality of service!

Midnight Editions Expanding To More Vehicles In Chevy's Lineup

 If you haven’t noticed, Chevrolet has been rolling out quite a few special edition models of some of the most popular vehicles in their lineup. Midnight Editions of the Silverado, Colorado, Equinox and Trax have become the fastest-selling special edition vehicles to date...but the brand isn’t stopping there. Chevy recently announced they will be expanding these Midnight Edition speciality models to the Tahoe and Suburban. In our opinion, this makes perfect sense, considering these two vehicles make up nearly 50 percent of all full-size vehicles in the US.

Marketing and advertising manager of Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe stated, “Our SUV customers have shown a considerable appetite for specialty vehicles. The Midnight Editions allow us to further deliver on the premium expectation that our customers already have for these class-leading full-size SUVs.”

The Midnight Edition Suburban and Tahoe will be available in two different variants, the Z71 Midnight package and the LT Midnight package. The Z71 will have all of the features that are included in the Z71 Package, like the off-road tuned suspension and off-road tires, tow hooks, fog lamps and sill plates. To take it up a notch, the Midnight Edition will offer 18” all-black wheels, roof rack cross rails, a black grille insert and the black Chevy “bow tie” logos.

Similarly, the LT Midnight will include the same features of the Suburban and Tahoe trim levels, but will add 20” black wheels, all-season tires, roof rack rails, black assist steps, and of course, black Chevy “bow tie” logos.

According to Chevy, these vehicles will be released a little later this year! Be sure to keep an eye out for their arrival to West Chevrolet in Knoxville, Tennessee!