Interior/Exterior
In order to keep up with its ever-evolving competitors, some interior and exterior enhancements like power pedals, rear park assist and a new paint color have all been made standard for the 2014 model year. A new Suburban arrives in 2015, so it's safe to assume Chevy didn't want to change too much between last year's model and this year's.
The interior's appearance is a bit long in the tooth, so the redesign for next year will be welcome, but it is one of the most spacious sport utility interiors money can buy -- up to 137.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats down and room for as many as nine people when they're up.
Under the Hood
The Suburban 1500 is powered by a 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine producing 320-horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive comes as standard in all three trim levels, but all three can also be had with all-wheel drive for an extra cost. The 1500 can tow as much as 8,100 pounds and achieves a fuel efficiency rating of 15 mpg city 21 mpg highway, which is pretty economical for a vehicle this size.
Performance
While the Suburban is by no means a sporty SUV, it has enough utility to make up for it. The power and torque is plentiful and the four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes do a good job stopping the Chevy's considerable heft. The Stabilitrak stability control system helps to keep the vehicle's bodyroll in check through the corners and the standard suspension package rides comfortably and handles towing without a bother.
Even though the Suburban 1500 isn't cheap, with prices starting at $45,065, it is a good value when you take into account the vehicle's size, power and capabilities. All in all, the Suburban has been around so long because it does exactly what its owners have needed it to do -- and more -- for decades.