2021 Chevrolet Suburban

Overview

With a nameplate that traces its origin way back in 1935, the Chevrolet Suburban is the granddaddy of all SUVs. For 2021, Chevy completely reinvented the Suburban. Building on the “bigger is better” philosophy, the 2021 Suburban is longer, wider, as well as taller than its already-husky predecessor. The result is a cabin with an insatiable appetite for both passengers and cargo, arguably setting the highest standard in its class.

But size isn’t the only reason why the 2021 Suburban is an ideal choice for large families or folks that regularly transport bulky freight. 

In contrast to its predecessor, the 2021 Suburban unveils an upscale cabin lavishly appointed with creature comforts, modern driver assists, and an abundance of infotainment features, all aimed at enhancing the overall experience.

The highlight, though, is the adoption of an independent rear suspension, greatly improving accommodations for third-row passengers and cargo as well as the Suburban’s road manners. When combined with features like magnetic ride control or the four-corner air suspension, the Chevrolet Suburban delivers the most comfortable ride among full-size, truck-based SUVs in its class.

Under the hood, the 2021 Chevy Suburban offers familiar engine options—a standard 355-hp V-8 and a more robust 420-hp V-8, though the latter is exclusively reserved for the top-end High-Country trim. What sets the updated 2021 model apart, and indeed the segment, is the introduction of a torquey inline-six turbo diesel engine, promising fewer stops at the fuel station. Across all models, the 10-speed automatic transmission garners praise, and there’s even an offroad-focused Z71 model for enthusiasts seeking adventurous outings.

What’s New for 2021?

The Suburban received a complete makeover for 2021. It’s bigger and better from every angle.

Trims and Pricing

The 2021 Suburban offers a standard 5.3-liter V8 engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. All trim levels provide the option for four-wheel drive, with it being a standard feature on the Z71 variant. In addition, two other powertrains are also on offer: a robust 6.2-liter V8 engine, exclusively available with the High Country trim, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder diesel, which is an option for all trims except the Z71.

Which Trim should you buy?

With an impressive lineup of six distinct trims, the 2021 Suburban caters to a wide range of needs and preferences. Starting with the LS, you’ll find a generous amount of features, including various infotainment options and some essential driver assistance features. Notably, the LS is the sole choice if you’re seeking a nine-seater configuration.

However, it’s the LT with the best bang for your buck. It boasts an attractive starting price while offering a satisfying array of standard features.

For a detailed breakdown of the differences between each trim level, please refer the dedicated features description.

For off-road enthusiasts, the rugged Z71 models are worth a look. And if you plan on towing regularly, keep an eye out for the diesel-powered models. You can find more comprehensive information in the Towing section.

Interior

Design and Quality

The interior of the 2021 Suburban is a big step up from the previous model. Clean and thoughtfully designed, you would enjoy your time in the big Chevy SUV.

While there’s a bit of plastic materials that seem out of place on an SUV of that price, most other cabin materials are of good quality including soft-touch surfaces and metal accents. fit and finish are impressive, with all components tightly assembled and thoughtfully arranged. Higher trims take luxury center stage, with leather generously adorning various parts of the cabin.

The interior leans towards a more conservative design, but this approach pays off handsomely in terms of ergonomic friendliness. The toggle-switch electronic shifter for instance, is conveniently positioned and immediately intuitive to use.

Space and Comfort

The 2021 Suburban comes with standard seating for eight, expandable to nine in the base LS trim with an optional front bench seat. Alternatively, you can opt for a seven-passenger setup with second-row captain chairs.

No matter the configuration, there’s abundant passenger space thanks to the increased dimensions and independent rear suspension. Even the third row comfortably accommodates tall adults, a contrast to the smaller third row found in the Nissan Armada.

The available leather seats on the Suburban are comfortable and offer all sorts of comfort features including heating and ventilation. The second-row seats are flexible, allowing them to slide fore and aft as needed.

What further relaxes the senses is the sheer sound insulation – wind and tire noise rarely intrude on the interior ambiance.

Infotainment and Connectivity

Technology is a strong suite of every 2021 Suburban model. Not only does it get a tonne of features, but those features also work very seamlessly.

A generous 10.2-inch standard touchscreen graces the dashboard, boasting sharp graphics and responsive performance. The user-friendly Chevy System 3 Infotainment technology ensures that even those familiar with smartphones can easily navigate the system. Plus, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard.

The only minor drawback is the screen’s vast size within the Suburban’s spacious interior, which can make it slightly challenging to reach. Fortunately, Chevy includes user-friendly physical buttons and knobs for audio and climate controls, which can also be conveniently accessed from the steering wheel.

There are plenty of technology and entertainment features loaded in the Chevy, including an optional rear entertainment system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. 

For a comprehensive overview of the infotainment features, please refer to the dedicated features description.

Cargo and in-cabin storage spaces

Space is the Suburban’s calling card. Inside, you’ll find a generously sized center-console bin, along with various pockets and nooks for your convenience. There’s also an optional power-operated center console positioned between the front seats which can move back to reveal a spacious storage tray.

Where the Suburban really sets itself apart is in the cargo room. Its extra length gives it  a cavernous rear cargo hold. Here are the exact cargo capacity numbers:

• Behind third row: 41.5 cubic feet
• Behind second row (third row folded): 93.8 cubic feet
• Behind first row (third and second row folded): 144.7 cubic feet

These figures surpass those of its competitors, including the Ford Expedition Max and Nissan Armada.

Switching between passenger and cargo configurations is a breeze, thanks to power-release second-row seats and power-folding hird-row seats. Standard on Premier and High Country; available on LT, RST and Z71.

Features

Chevrolet Suburban LS Features

The base Suburban comes with the following standard features: 

• LED headlights
• Eight-passenger seating (2-3-3) 
• 18-inch wheels
• Black assist steps
•  2-inch trailer hitch receiver
• Limited-slip rear differential
• Keyless entry
• Remote start,
• 10.2-inch infotainment touchscreen
• Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Six-speaker audio system
• Eight USB ports
• Wi-Fi hotspot 
• Two 120-volt household-style power outlets
• Eight-way power front passenger seat
• 10-way power driver’s seat
• Three-zone automatic climate control

Standard safety features on the base Suburban include:

• Rear parking sensors
• Automatic high beams
• Forward collision warning with pedestrian detection
• Automatic emergency braking
• Rear-seat alert
• Teen Driver system

There are plenty of options including a trailering package, lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning, lane-change alert with blind-spot alert, and park assist. Front-row bench seat is optional on LS only.

Chevrolet Suburban LT Features

The LT adds the following extras:

• Heated 10-way power front seats
• Hands-free power liftgate
• Nine-speaker Bose audio system
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror
• wireless device charging
• Leather seat trim

Additional options include heated side mirrors navigation, second-row captain’s chairs, power-folding second- and third-row seats, rear entertainment screens, panoramic sunroof, heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats and a surround-view parking camera system.

Chevrolet Suburban RST Features

The RST ups the style quotient of the Suburban. It adds:

• 22-inch wheels
• Black exterior trim
• Perforated leather seats with contrast stitching

Options include jet black/red leather upholstery and 22-inch chrome wheels.

Chevrolet Suburban Z71 Features

The Z71 is an off-ready trim. Along with LT trim’s standard features, the Z71 trim adds: 

• 20-inch wheels
• Four-wheel drive
• Two-speed transfer case
• Heavy-duty air filter
• Front skid plate
• Front fascia with high approach angle, 
• Red recovery hooks
• Hill-descent control

Options include dark leather seating surfaces, magnetic ride control, as well as Air Suspension.

Chevrolet Suburban Premier Features

The Premier shares the LT trim’s standard features and adds:

• 20-inch polished aluminum wheels
• Magnetic ride control 
• Dual exhaust outlets
• Chrome exterior accents
• Heated side mirrors and steering wheel
• 12-way power front seats
• 10-speaker Bose audio system
• Navigation
• Heated and ventilated front seats
• Second-row captain’s chairs
• Power-folding third row,
• Heated second-row seats. 
• Front and rear park assist
• Lane-keeping assist with lane-departure warning
• Lane-change alert with blind-spot alert

Options include a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera mirror system.

Chevrolet Suburban High Country Features

The top-end trim adds:

• 6.2-liter V8 engine
• 22-inch wheels
• Head-up display
• Rearview camera mirror system
• HD Surround-view camera system
• Rear pedestrian alert

Options include air suspension, adaptive cruise control, jet black/mocha leather trims, rear seat entertainment system, and a trailering package.

Engine and Performance

5.3-liter V8

• Horsepower: 355 hp @ 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 383 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive / 4-Wheel Drive
• 0-60 mph:

The base engine in the Suburban provides adequate acceleration for an SUV weighing almost 5,524 pounds. It can get it to highway speeds sufficiently quickly along with decent  power for passing slower vehicles. What’s particularly impressive is its smooth character, which is further accentuated with the super sleek 10-speed automatic transmission.

6.2-liter V8

• Horsepower: 420 hp @ 5,600 RPM
• Torque: 460 lb-ft @ 4,100 RPM
• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive / 4-Wheel Drive
• 0-60 mph:

The 5.3-liter V8 engine may come across as underwhelming, not because it lacks power, but because it’s overshadowed by the larger V8 found in the top-end trim, and that’s a testament to the excellence of the larger engine. The larger V8 delivers an abundance of power, and when combined with the exceptional 10-speed automatic transmission, it elevates the driving experience to a whole new level.

3.0-liter I6 Turbodiesel

• Horsepower: 277 hp @ 3,750 RPM
• Torque: 460 lb-ft @ 1,500 RPM
• Transmission: 10-Speed Automatic
• Drivetrain: Rear-Wheel Drive / 4-Wheel Drive
• 0-60 mph:

The diesel is available as an option on every Suburban except for the Z71. And is a commendable option for anyone who plans to tow regularly. 

While it’s 277-hp rating might seem a bit underwhelming, it’s the 460 lb-ft of torque that’s the real deal. And being a diesel, all that torque is delivered at just 1500 rpm. This means easily towing heavy loads, without overpushing the engine, especially up hills and at highway speeds. 

While it’s true that diesel fuel can be less readily available, the benefit of fewer trips to the fuel station more than compensates for it.

Fuel Economy

It’s no surprise that the diesel wins the fuel economy battle by a margin. But even the V8 options are surprisingly fuel efficient for the class. Credit is due in part to the intelligent Dynamic Fuel Management system, which can efficiently deactivate individual cylinders based on driving conditions. There’s auto start stop too.

EPA-Rated Fuel Economy (City/Highway)

Ride Comfort

The switch to independent multilink rear suspension on the 2021 Chevy Suburban has significantly improved its road manners. This innovative setup grants each rear wheel the autonomy to tackle road conditions independently, resulting in a noteworthy improvement in both ride comfort and steering responsiveness.

And if you happen to get one of the higher models with the available magnetic ride control (adaptive dampers) and Four-Corner Adaptive Air Suspension, you have a full-size truck-based SUV that rides less like it is. This sophisticated setup acts as a buffer between the road and the cabin, offering a ride that is both comfortable and firmly planted, regardless of the road surface.

Handling

The 2021 Chevy Suburban manages its considerable size admirably. As a substantial SUV, it might seem like a heavyweight, but when it encounters a curve, the air suspension rises to the occasion, exhibiting surpising well-balanced and predictable cornering behavior.

While there’s no escaping the inherent bulk of the Suburban, especially in tight quarters, it’s worth noting that compared to previous body-on-frame SUVs, even a novice driver can quickly adapt to piloting the Suburban after just a few miles.

Nevertheless, the most formidable challenge lies in maneuvering through congested, narrow city streets or finding a suitable parking spot. In such instances, the available surround-view parking camera system proves to be a lifesaver.

Towing

The Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds when properly equipped, and surprisingly, that rating comes up with the less powerful V8 engine.  Here’s a precise breakdown:

5.3L V8 Engine

• 2WD: 7,800 lbs
• 4WD: 7,600 lbs
• 2WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 8,300 lbs
• 4WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 8,100 lbs

3.0L Duramax Turbo Diesel Engine

• 2WD: 8,000 lbs
• 4WD: 7,800 lbs
• 2WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 8,000 lbs
• 4WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 7,800 lbs

6.2L V8 Engine

• 2WD: 7,700 lbs
• 4WD: 7,400 lbs
• 2WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 8,200 lbs
• 4WD w/ Max Trailering Package: 7,900 lbs

Here’s what the the Chevrolet Max Trailering package includes:

• 2-speed transfer case (exclusive to LT models w/ 4WD)
• Hitch Guidance with Hitch View
• Advanced Trailering System (in-vehicle)
• Trailer brake controller
• Enhanced cooling radiator
• Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert (exclusive to Premier and High Country trims)

Safety

While the IIHS hasn’t crash tested the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban, the NHTSA gave it an overall safety rating of 4 stars. 

NHTSA Safety Ratings

Safety and Driver Assistance Features

Chevrolet equips every 2021 Suburban with the following standard driver assistance features:

• Automatic high-beam headlights
• Forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection
• Automatic emergency braking
• Rear-seat reminder system 
• Rear Parking sensors
• Rearview camera with hitch guidance
• Teen Driver System

Upgrades in driver-assistance features include:

• Front parking sensors
• Adaptive cruise control
• Surround-view parking camera system
• Lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Safety alert seat
• Rearview mirror with an integrated camera display
• Head-up display 
• Rear Pedestrian Alert

To know the exact trim-wise breakup of available safety tech, check out the features section.

Conclusion

Pros:

• Spacious interior with comfortable seating in all three rows
• Industry-leading cargo space.
• Diverse engine lineup including the speedy 6.2-liter V8 and thrifty turbodiesel
• No shortage of Tech and connectivity options
• Remarkable ride and handling for an extra-large truck-based SUV
• Impressive towing capacity

Cons:

• Challenging for city driving due to its size.
• Parking can be a daunting task
• Some materials may appear out of place considering the price
• Adaptive Cruise control is still optional on the top-end trim
• 6.2 V8 is reserved to the High-Country

Should you Buy a Used 2021 Chevrolet Suburban?

The 2021 Chevy Suburban continues its legacy as the go-to vehicle for large American families, now offering an even better family-hauling experience.

It marries a cavernous cabin, boasting best-in-class cargo volume and second-row legroom, with a well-equipped interior and loads of family-friendliness. The introduction of an independent rear suspension, coupled with the industry’s first optional Four Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension, ensures that the Suburban offers unparalleled comfort on the move. Plus, its impressive towing capacity of up to 8,300 pounds means you can bring a boat along on family outings without breaking a sweat.

The Suburban also exudes personality packing potent and refined engines under the hood. Recognizing the need to keep modern families entertained, the 2021 Suburban offers a plethora of infotainment and connectivity features.

Altogether, whether you’re upgrading from a mid-size SUV to accommodate a growing family or simply seeking a versatile family hauler capable of handling trips, towing adventures, and off-road escapades (without resorting to minivans), the updated 2021 Suburban is a solid used choice.