The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban features a combination of best in class cargo capacity, increased legroom, and a variety of trim options. With 420 available horsepower, the Suburban proves a robust choice for a large family SUV. Upgraded camera technology provides up to 9 views, including a digital composite image from above that can assist when parking in tough spaces.
The newest Suburban is offered in different flavors to fit the users’ needs, including the luxurious High Country, off-road enhanced Z71, and the base LS model.
The Suburban, known as the longest-running model in automotive history, has certainly benefited from engineering advances over time. Here’s a more in-depth look at the Suburban and what is offered for the 2021 model year.
The 2021 Suburban Features Additional Storage
Some of the standard features on all Suburban models for this year include a power sliding center console and built-in Amazon Alexa. The console slides back 10” for additional, covert storage and Alexa gets integration with built-in 4G LTE WiFi. Dual 12.6” LCD screens in the back seat allow connectivity with the primary infotainment system, allowing passengers to share information with the driver.
The main screen is a 10.2” display that employs Chevrolet’s Infotainment Plus system. A 15” windshield heads-up display is optional, which can display directions, calls, and safety information. Up to 9 camera views are available to facilitate the ease of parking. For those who are using their Suburban to tow, an Advanced Trailering System is available to provide tire pressure, temperature, and trailer profile information.
Along with a maximum cargo space of 144.7cu.ft., the Suburban has increased legroom for third-row passengers. Standard dimensions for the SUV include 42.3” of headroom and 44.5” legroom in the front. This is identical to the Chevy Tahoe while slightly larger than Chevy’s mid-size Traverse SUV.
Three Engine Choices Are Available For The 2021 Suburban
The 2021 Suburban is available with three different engines. A 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 comes standard on the LS, LT, RST, Z71, and Premier trims. This engine, which features Dynamic Fuel Management, is capable of 355 horsepower and 383lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is approximately 20mpg highway; The engine is mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission, which is universal amongst all powertrain options for the Suburban.
A 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 is offered as an intermediate option or standard on the High Country trim. Horsepower and torque are increased to 420 and 460lb-ft, respectively with a fuel economy equivalent to the 5.3L choice. Chevrolet also offers a Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel on LS, LT, RST, Premier, and High Country trims. It features slightly less power at 277hp and 460lb-ft of torque, with increased fuel economy at 27mpg highway.
Chevrolet Offers A Variety Of Safety Features
Suburban offers a myriad of advanced electronic safety features that adhere to trends in the current market. Standard features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alerts, following distance indicators, and “Intellibeam” automatic high beams. Customers can also choose to add adaptive cruise control, lane assist, rear cross-traffic alerts, and OnStar, amongst others. The optional HD surround vision produces an overhead image of the vehicle for maneuvering in tight spaces.
The 2021 Suburban Is Offered In 6 Different Trim Levels
The base model Suburban, dubbed “LS”, is the least expensive trim option starting at an MSRP of $51,700. It features smooth ride suspension along with 18” wheels wrapped in all-season tires. For convenience, LS includes a roof rack luggage carrier. LT models, which start at $56,500, add wireless charging along with a 9-speaker sound system and a hands-free power liftgate.
The distinguishing feature of the RST trim is special badging along with a jet black interior accentuated by Victory Red stitching. The Black Ice front grille is complimented by 22” high-gloss black aluminum wheels for a midnight aesthetic.
Z71 has historically been the "off-road" trim for most any Chevrolet model. Tow hooks and a skid plate come standard, complete with 20” wheels and all-terrain tires. Optional four-corner air ride adaptive suspension adjust ride height and suspension settings to optimize comfort and aerodynamics in different conditions. Z71 starts at an MSRP of $61,900.
Premier and High Country are the highest trim options available, retailing for $65,300 and $72,300, respectively. Both benefit from Magnetic Ride Control and a variety of safety features. Premier features a high-quality Bose audio system with 10-speaker surround sound. 22” wheels with all-season tires come standard on High Country.
Reviews of the 2021 Suburban have highlighted its capabilities, with Automobile Magazine referring to it as the “best Suburban ever.” Improvements such as the addition of independent rear suspension for the 2021 model year have proven to be an asset to the SUV’s ride quality.
SOURCES: Chevrolet, Automobile Magazine