Grand Daddy of Modern SUV

History:
This vehicle is a legend! Originally built in the late 30’s, this vehicle withstood the test of time in terms of design and functionality. This truck is the Grand Daddy of all known modern SUV today.

Driving Experience/Comfort:
What can I say; it’s a huge vehicle capable of transporting nine full grown adults. The ride is very quite, solid, and firm. Other drivers cannot escape the fact that you are in their way. I have seen and experienced other drivers tend to pass you with caution. Again, I believe this is due to the sheer size and weight of this vehicle. The 2005 Suburban offers the driver a solid ride. It has a powerful V-8 5300 engine with 295 Horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. This truck has ample thrust in terms of acceleration and smooth passing speed. The air condition and heating system provides ample ventilation for both front and rear passengers. The radio and CD/tape player are within finger tip reach. Personally, Chevrolet design engineers should put more thought into designing a better quality dash board, entertainment system such as offering a 6 CD changer, and XM radio satellite as standard offering. However, the On-Star is a nice plus with this vehicle. The Power-adjustable pedal is a nice plus for petite/smaller frame drivers. The drive seat can be setup to sit farther for body and steering alignment. The front air bag sensors are designed to automatically disable from deploying in the event the front-seat passenger does not the minimum weight requirement. The second and third row seats are quite comfortable and very roomy. You can pull out the third row seat and fold down the second row seat for transporting large objects such as grand father clocks, dry wall, and object of huge proportions. The vehicle is equipped with Premium Smooth Ride suspension which according to their glossy brochures is the stuff that is hydraulically controlled rear self-leveling system. I guess it layman’s terms – it balances itself like a top. The running boards are a plus especially for smaller passers boarding this vehicle.

Bottom Line:
There is really nothing special with this vehicle except it can haul passengers and cargo alike without difficulty and fan fare – I believe this is the way Chevrolet intended the vehicle to be. The dashboard is borderline mediocre, but offers the driver with valuable information such as easy to read dial gauge for the oil pressure, tachometer, fuel gauge, and battery. The seats are comfortable for short rides, but watch out for extremely long ride because these seats can really hurt your behind. Chevrolet engineers should take heart in the design of ergonomic seats instead of the regular bucket and bench seats which has been their hallmark on most Chevrolet/GMC cars and trucks. The velour seating material is of average quality. Nothing fancy, kinda bland though. They are very uncomfortable and lack lumbar support.

Mechanical/Drive Train:
The V-8 5300 engine with 295 horsepower has a distinct rumble when accelerating. When I say distinct, I mean a subtle low rumble unique only to Chevrolet. The vehicle has enough torque to haul 7,000-8,000 lbs of trailer weight. I have not tested this vehicle hitched with a boat or a silver bullet. I have not engaged the Tow/Haul mode to date. I will provide you input and feedback when the opportunities arise. From what I have seen and read, it takes is simply pressing the tow/hauling switch and you are all set provided you attached the wiring harness to the rear cargo.
The passing speed is surprisingly quite capable borderline impressive. It can pull itself provided enough gas pedal motion is applied. The brakes are Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and are more than sufficient to handle the load regardless of weather and road conditions. This vehicle is equipped with two-wheel, four-wheel, and all-wheel (AutoTrac) by simply touching the buttons. The two-wheel (2WD) is meant for normal dry driving condition; whereas, the four-wheel (4WD) is meant for snow and wetter conditions. The brakes are smooth and powerful providing you enough stopping power without play. The four-wheel disc calipers provide superior and sure footing stopping power in wet conditions

Toys/Electronics:
There is not a whole a lot of toys and electronics equipped with this vehicle. The truck comes with your standard, but easy to read tachometer, speedometer, battery, and oil gauge. It does come with an on-board dial that monitors oil consumption as well as tire gauge pressure. I feel the tire gauge sensor serves no useful purpose other than inform you if your tires are low in air pressure. The On-Star is useful for emergencies and is a necessity. It also comes with hands free phone in addition to the On-Star satellite system. To make a call, simply activate the phone button and say the numbers. Simple as that!

Safety Features:
One thing I really like about this vehicle is the four roof (4) beams integrated with the body assembly in case the vehicle rolls over. In the event, this vehicle rolls over; passengers are less likely to get crushed by the sheer weight of this vehicle. I believe this is one of the main reasons I chose to purchase this vehicle. In addition to its size and weight, the truck is made of solid “American” steel.