2003 Chevrolet Suburban Review

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Editors' Rating

Not Yet Rated | Read the Model Review

Fuel Economy

13 - 14 mpg

Summary

What Edmunds.com says

With its capable suspension, excellent powertrain and standard room for nine, the Suburban remains one of the best family-haulers available anywhere. Add Quadrasteer and the Suburban becomes an excellent tow vehicle, as well.

Pros

Choice of powerful V8 engines, Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system, cavernous cargo space, room for nine.

Cons

Massive size can be tough in tight confines, vague steering feel, cheap interior plastics.

What's New for 2003

The Suburban gets numerous functional enhancements for 2003. The Quadrasteer four-wheel steering system is now available on 3/4-ton models for increased maneuverability and better stability when towing, while 1/2-ton versions now offer the StabiliTrak stability control system. New power heated mirrors feature puddle lamps, in-glass turn signal indicators and a memory function, and extendable power camper mirrors are optional. The interior gets numerous upgrades that include tri-zone climate control, an enhanced driver-information center, a redesigned center console and options such as second-row captain's chairs and adjustable pedals. A revised lineup of entertainment options includes a Bose audio system as well as XM Satellite Radio and a DVD-based entertainment system. For increased safety, the Suburban now features a standard front-passenger-sensing system and dual-stage airbags.

Consumer Ratings & Reviews

2003 Z71 suburban

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 8 Build Quality: 8
Comfort: 9 Interior Design: 7 Reliability: 8
Fuel Economy: 5 Exterior Design: 7

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LS 4WD 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)

Review

I purchased this vehicle new in 2003. I had some problem with the dash rpm gauge twice which was corrected. The sending unit in the gas tank went bad and that hurt my pocket. But for as many miles this has driven and the places it has been ( I don't baby it ) meaning I point it and it goes on/off road--tow , I'm happy as cake with her. I'm not a little guy and its like sitting on my sofa at home. It fits 5 and tows a boat with all equipment. Hunt,fish no problem. Pull son's car out of ditches--no problem

Favorite Features

heated leather seats,moon roof,powerful engine,comfortable ride

Suggested Improvements

spruce up plain jane dash, A little more height in the suspension (Z71)

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best suv

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 9 Fun-to-Drive: 10 Build Quality: 8
Comfort: 10 Interior Design: 10 Reliability: 8
Fuel Economy: 4 Exterior Design: 10

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 4WD 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)

Review

This is the best full size suv for your money. It is the best vehicle for long rides and can fit 8 people and all their bags and still have space to run around. Bose radio system is great.

Favorite Features

all power. heated seats, folding mirror. bose system

Suggested Improvements

gas millage.

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Chevy = Hype

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 7 Fun-to-Drive: 6 Build Quality: 3
Comfort: 9 Interior Design: 9 Reliability: 3
Fuel Economy: 8 Exterior Design: 8

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 4WD 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)

Review

I have always driven Fords with very little trouble. Everyone suggested I "upgrade" to Chevrolet. After owning one I can say it will be my last. I replaced the fuel pump at 70K. At 80K the speedometer cluster quit working (very common on this vehicle). Also at 80K the transfer case went out. Should I mention the electrical problems? Power doors work intermittently, windows sometimes don't roll down. When it runs, I like it. But, it spends just as much time in the shop and for a 43K vehicle, it's not worth the trouble. I'm going to get rid of it and get a reliable SUV. I'm convinced that Chevy is simply hype. I haven't exactly been blown off of my feet.

Favorite Features

Suggested Improvements

Quit using junk parts.

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Some things questionable

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 8 Fun-to-Drive: 9 Build Quality: 7
Comfort: 9 Interior Design: 9 Reliability: 7
Fuel Economy: 6 Exterior Design: 9

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 4WD 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)

Review

I have had the same problems as a lot of Z71 owners had, the instrument cluster is going dead, and the front suspension/shocks are brutal. I have always been a Chevy guy, especially going for the Suburban for size and comfort, but GM should know better than to compromise on this simple engineering.

Favorite Features

Size, comfort, fun to drive, power.

Suggested Improvements

Electronics, suspension.

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Try it you wiill like it

Detailed Ratings

Overall Rating 

Performance: 10 Fun-to-Drive: 8 Build Quality: 9
Comfort: 9 Interior Design: 10 Reliability: 9
Fuel Economy: 7 Exterior Design: 9

Vehicle

2003 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 LT 4WD 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)

Review

I purchased my vehicle in 2006, at that time it had 74000 miles and I have had it for about one and a half years. I have had to replace the throttle body, but overall, it is the best vehicle I have ever owned. It is spacious,the dvd keep the passengers occupied, second row captain chairs are very comfortable and the third roow seating, really can seat adults. If you haven't noticed I have the LT model and I did not think American vehicle had it in them, but I tell you if you are looking for space, this is it. try it you will like it,convince my cousin to buy one and he's lovin' it.

Favorite Features

DVD, rear entertainment, heated seat for my wife, and the stereo.

Suggested Improvements

The new ones cover it all, back-up monitor and or sensor.

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

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