New Car Overview of the 2005 Chevrolet Suburban Full-Size Sport Utility Vehicle

Description: Full-Size Sport Utility Vehicle
Base MSRP Range: $39,625 - $42,523
Invoice Price Range: $34,672 - $37,209
Where built: Mexico

The largest SUV on Chevy's lot is the super-size Suburban that stretches 18 feet long and spreads more than 6 feet wide across the beam. Its enormous cabin has seats for as many as nine passengers and there are high-tech handling devices aboard including optional Quadrasteer four-wheel steering (4WS) that turns all four wheels so Suburban can maneuver at slow speed with amazingly tight turns to match the nimble movements of a small car.

The series includes 1500 (half-ton) and 2500 (three-quarter-ton) versions with Vortec V8 engines and automatic transmissions for all. Suburban 1500 totes a 5.3-liter, V8 rated this year at 295-hp. The 2500 stocks Chevy's 6.0-liter, V8 that runs to 325-hp, with the heavy-duty Vortec 8.1-liter, V8 also available for 320-hp.

Both 1500 and 2500 Suburbans host RWD and 4WD editions, but the latter has a dash-mounted switch to jockey between full-time AWD traction, rear-wheel or four-wheel high and low settings.

GM's OnStar telecommunications system is now standard in every equipment group for Suburban in 2005, while a new rear lift gate with flip-up glass window fits on all.