2012 Chevrolet Suburban Total Car Score Analysis

For a humongous truck-based SUV wearing a 75-year-old nameplate and competing with a number of newer models, the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban manages to earn a respectable Total Car Score. 
 
Reviewers had a lot of good things to say about the Suburban, most notably about its cavernous interior with room for up to nine passengers or a whole lot of cargo. While the powerful V8 engines and hefty towing capacity are expected in a truck this size, the smooth ride quality will likely come as a pleasant surprise. 
 
Not surprisingly the Suburban earned demerits for the way its gargantuan dimensions and hefty curb weight adversely affect its maneuverability. Most also questioned how many buyers really need a big, thirsty truck this size, pointing out most would be better served by a more nimble and fuel-efficient fullsize crossover. Finally, the outdated design of the third-row seat, which must be lifted out and stored to maximize cargo space, also got its share of thumbs-down. 
 
With a new generation based on an updated truck platform still a couple of model years away, the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban gets tweaked navigation and rear-seat entertainment systems. An updated version of GM's electronic stability control also includes trailer sway control and hill-start assist. 

2012 Chevrolet Suburban Model Line-Up

The 2012 Chevrolet Suburban is a fullsize SUV with seating for eight passengers, or nine with the optional front bench seat. It's offered in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 versions, and a choice of three trim levels, including LS, LT and LTZ.  
 
Engine choices start with the 1500 model's standard 5.3-liter V8, which puts out 320 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. The 2500 model comes with a 6.0-liter V8 that produces 352 hp and 382 lb-ft. A six-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive are standard with both engines. There are also two different four-wheel drive systems — with and without a traditional low-range transfer case — available as options.  
 
The list of standard features on the entry-level LS includes 17-inch alloy wheels, side assist steps, roof rack side rails, three-zone manual climate control, power front seats with a center console, a 50/50-split third-row seat, Bluetooth, rear-seat audio controls with headphone jacks and a CD stereo with satellite radio and eight speakers.  
 
Moving up to the midrange LT gets you fog lights, heated mirrors, ultrasonic rear parking sensors, three-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, remote start and a premium Bose audio system with a six-disc CD changer.  
 
The top-of-the-line LTZ adds 20-inch polished alloy wheels, a rear air suspension, rain-sensing wipers, a power liftgate, a blind-spot warning system, upgraded leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats, driver's seat memory settings, a heated steering wheel, heated second-row seats with power folding, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a navigation system, rearview camera and premium upgraded Bose surround-sound audio system with 10 speakers and digital music storage.  
 
Major options include 22-inch alloy wheels, a sunroof, power-retractable running boards, a heavy-duty towing package, an off-road package and a rear-seat video entertainment system with dual screens.  
 
With the 5.3-liter V8 engine, the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban returns EPA fuel economy estimates of 15 mpg city, 21 mpg highway and 17 mpg combined. With the 6.0-liter V8 those numbers drop significantly to 10/16/12 with two-wheel drive, and 10/15/12 with four-wheel drive.  
 
Properly equipped, the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 can tow up to 8,100 pounds, while the 2500 version can tow up to 9,600 pounds.

Total Car Score is not affiliated with, associated, authorized, or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected to any of the Expert Resources, nor does Total Car Score endorse any of the Expert Resources, or its affiliates.
Click here to see more.