2009 Chevy Suburban Review
2009 Chevy Suburban Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Seats up to nine people, class-leading cargo capacity, lots of standard and optional features, comfortable ride, smooth V8.
Cons
- Third-row seat is bulky and doesn't fold into the floor, acceleration is sluggish when fully loaded, portly curb weight hampers handling.
What’s new
Numerous equipment changes make their way onto the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban. Mechanically, there's a new, more efficient six-speed automatic transmission, which comes standard on all 1500 models. Inside, all trim levels now get the 50/50-split third-row bench and Bluetooth phone connectivity. The navigation system now comes with real-time traffic capability, and the nav system is now optional on the midlevel 1LT trim. All trim levels get a choice of two optional rearview cameras. A third-row DVD screen is now an available add-on for the rear entertainment system. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line LTZ trim level gets standard heated and cooled leather seats and an upgraded audio system, as well as an optional blind spot warning system. Finally, models with the heavy-duty tow package have a new integrated trailer brake controller.
Edmunds says
The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is a compelling choice for those who need a traditional full-size SUV with maximum capacity. We just wonder how many people really do.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 6A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.12 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$234/mo for Suburban 1500 LS
Suburban 1500 LS
vs
$239/mo
Avg. Large SUV
Vehicle overview
More than seven decades after its introduction, the Chevrolet Suburban is still virtually unmatched when it comes to space and utility. As always, this behemoth people carrier uses a traditional body-on-frame truck chassis with a solid rear axle. But despite its size, the Suburban boasts decent road manners, helped in part by a smooth V8 engine.
This year, all 1500 models get a new six-speed automatic transmission, which cruises at lower revs -- the result of which, Chevy claims, is increased fuel economy. The top-of-the-line LTZ, which previously was more of an equipment group, becomes its own trim level this year, and is stocked with plenty of features. Other notable additions include an optional third-row DVD screen and two rearview camera options -- one in the rearview mirror and the other integrated into the optional navigation system.
We'll forgo any discussion of the Suburban's gas mileage -- it's bad, you know it. But, for those who truly need nine-passenger seating capacity and a whole load of cargo space, the Suburban is really only matched by its GMC Yukon XL clone and a few full-size vans. The Ford Expedition boasts similar dimensions to the Suburban, but while the Ford offers slightly more torque, it only seats eight and is shy on horsepower in comparison to its competitor. There's also the Toyota Sequoia, which has plenty of brawn but not as much room as the Suburban. Overall, those needing tons of interior space as well as enough oomph to tow heavy loads will find a lot to like about the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban.
Performance & mpg
Chevrolet offers three engine choices on the 2009 Suburban 1500. Most versions come standard with a 5.3-liter V8 that makes 310 horsepower and 335 pound-feet of torque. On the 2LT and LTZ trim levels, a 6.0-liter V8 that pumps out 366 hp and 376 lb-ft of torque is optional. All 1500 engines are paired with a new six-speed automatic transmission.
Suburban 2500 models also come standard with a 6.0-liter V8, but it's a slightly different variant; it's rated at 352 hp and 382 lb-ft of torque. It's matched to a six-speed automatic as well, though it's geared for enhanced towing capability. With either the 1500 or 2500 model, buyers have a choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive. An automatic locking rear differential is optional on all trims except the LTZ, on which it's standard. Properly equipped, the Suburban 2500 can tow up to 9,600 pounds.
Combined fuel economy for the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban ranges from about 14 mpg combined to 16 mpg combined, depending on the model and the engine. Obviously, towing and driving with a heavy load can drop these numbers significantly.
Safety
Four-wheel antilock disc brakes are standard on all Suburbans, as are stability control and GM's OnStar emergency communications system. A three-row side curtain airbag system with a rollover sensor is standard on all Suburbans. A new blind-spot warning system is also available on the LTZ trim. In government crash tests, the Chevy Suburban was awarded a top five-star rating for its protection of occupants in both frontal and side-impact collisions.
Driving
The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban is fairly quick for its size and can get to 60 mph in less than 9 seconds. However, the 5.3-liter V8 Suburban doesn't feel nearly so quick when carrying a load of passengers. And with a hefty curb weight of anywhere from 5,600 to 6,300 pounds, the Suburban, not surprisingly, doesn't feel nimble around city street corners. But the cabin is quiet at speed, and the ride is comfortably controlled over bumps. When superior passenger and cargo space is needed, there aren't many better SUVs than the 2009 Suburban.
Interior
Like other cars in GM's portfolio, the Suburban's interior has greatly improved over the years. Materials quality is good and controls are logically laid out. With its standard third row, the 2009 Suburban can seat up to nine people -- a total surpassed only by full-size vans. Although the Suburban's second row is available with a power-folding feature, the third-row seats must be removed manually to optimize cargo space. Based on our experience, those dense seats feel like they're constructed of depleted uranium and removing them requires not only a strong back but the ability to wrestle them out from deep inside the interior. Cargo capacity is immense, however, with a maximum of 137.4 cubic feet -- 17 cubes bigger than a Toyota Sequoia and a full 40 cubes larger than a Nissan Armada.
2009 Chevrolet Suburban models
The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban full-size SUV is available in 1500 and heavy-duty 2500 models, each available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. All are available in the base LS and the midlevel LT (with two equipment subcategories, 1LT and 2LT). The top-shelf LTZ model is available as a 1500 only.
The LS comes standard with 17-inch wheels, side assist steps, a 40/20/40-split front bench seat, full power accessories, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, dual-zone climate control, rear seat air-conditioning, Bluetooth phone connectivity and an eight-speaker audio system with CD player, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The 1LT trim level replaces the front split bench with front bucket seats and adds foglamps, luggage rack rails, rear audio system controls with two headphone jacks and additional power outlets (for a total of five). The 2LT package adds tri-zone automatic climate control, an upgraded audio system with six-CD changer, power-adjustable pedals, remote vehicle starting, a universal home remote and rear parking assist.
The Suburban LTZ gets 20-inch wheels, a power liftgate, a heated windshield washer fluid system, rain-sensing wipers, the Autoride rear air suspension, a locking rear differential, leather upholstery, upgraded heated and cooled front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, power-folding second-row seats with heat, and an upgraded 10-speaker Bose surround sound system. Many of the features that are standard on upper trim levels are available on the lower levels as options. Other major options for the Suburban include 22-inch wheels, a heavy-duty tow package (now with an integrated trailer brake controller), a navigation system, power-retracting running boards and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2009 Chevrolet Suburban.
5 star(61%)
4 star(21%)
3 star(8%)
2 star(6%)
1 star(4%)
51 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
2.38 out of 5 stars
Sinking More Money Into my 2008 Suburban
08suburbanne, 02/18/2015
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
So very disappointed with my 2008 Suburban. The car stalled in motion and I lost control. Had it towed to the dealership and told my CPS (Crank Shaft Sensor) failed but my VIN is not covered under the recall (GM06083) which is for the same issue. $500 out of my pocket. Dealership - no help! Called GM - no help. Called NHTSA - filed safety complaint. Thankfully not many cars were out on … the road but I could have been hit and having my young son in the car was nerve racking. 15 months ago engine went - again another known problem but no recall on my VIN. Very disappointed Chevy owner here! Been a Chevy owner for 20 years. Stand behind what you build!
2 out of 5 stars
Do Not Purchase a 2008 Chevrolet Suburban
patsfanman67, 09/15/2014
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LT 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
Junk!! My Suburban has required air bag sensor replacement ($300), the 4 wheel drive stopped functioning for unknown reasons, the Stabilitrac stopped functioning for unknown reasons, the Traction Control stopped functioning for unknown reasons, exterior lighting stopped working (puddle lamps, license plate lamps), and window buttons stopped working. All before it hit 80k miles! The … frame and undercarriage is rusted beyond recognition too. General Motors is proven unreliable and proven to be unable to build a sound vehicle. I will never buy another GM vehicle and I think the company should have been allowed to go bankrupt.
1 out of 5 stars
Do Not Buy With Active Fuel Management
Jon, 08/07/2015
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500 4dr SUV (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
The Active Fuel Management System causes major problems on this vehicle. $2,000 in fixes so far and it isn't fixed. World Class trained Chevy Technicians are having problems figuring out how to deal with the AFM and how to fix the problem. Next step $4,500 to go in a look and maybe fix the problem. Maybe. Suburbans were supposed to have a great engine. The Active Fuel Management … ruined it. Don't let them lie to you. There is also a special memo inside of Chevy mechanics only talking about a high oil consumption problem that needs 11 parts added to the vehicle to fix the problem at your own cost. Chevy won't tell anyone outside of their network that they had to have Chevy engineers come up with a band aid. They also won't cover any of the cost. Do not buy a 2008 Suburban from anyone.
4.75 out of 5 stars
Will own nothing else
EXBCMC, 10/19/2010
2008 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500 4dr SUV 4WD (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
This is our 4th sub/Tahoe. The best so far, but. The door actuators are a problem with this year sub. All four doors have failed. The steering wheel covering bubbled but was replaced on warranty. The sun visors are bubbling, as well. Bought this vehicle for the snow and so far, so good.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2009 Chevrolet Suburban, so we've included reviews for other years of the Suburban since its last redesign.
2009 Suburban Highlights
1500 LS
Base MSRP | $40,370 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $234/month |
Seating | 9 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 45.8 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover3 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
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