A+ -- If you know what it is, you won't find any surprises here.
My few comments are related to the driveline, axles & springs in particular. Not really complaints, more observations. This vehicle is a Suburban body fitted to a 3/4 commercial truck chassis. So, it has heavier controls and the rough ride of a commercial truck. It isn't a complaint, it just goes with the territory. The more common Suburban 1500 models don't do this.
I bought my Suburban 2500 used, so I was able to avoid the full price (over 60K, from what I heard). It was apparently an ex-government vehicle since it was austere trim-wise but no expense spared in the driveline. And, there was evidence that there was post-manufacture electrical devices added, now removed in the console.
It needed a backup camera, and I added in-dash GPS. I highly recommend these two details. Otherwise, it's unchanged. GM got this model right. It's as handy as a Jeep but has a *lot* more space. The main attraction was the driveline-it's the same as my worktruck (6.0L L96 engine, auto trans, 2500 series). It has power in industrial quantity - more than the suspension can handle. That's most likely the result of extra towing capacity that I don't use.
Consider whether you really need a 2500. The 1500s are excellent, they're always in production, cost less, and have a superior ride. The 5.3L engine has less power, and I don't like the AFM (device than shuts off "unneeded" engine cylinders at light cruise), otherwise they're good too. I planned on this vehicle being used for many things (business/commercial jobs, moving household stuff, etc) so the 2500 was a good choice for our application.
I hadn't considered the social impact it has. Apparently the recent Suburbans are quite the status symbol. Suddenly friends and neighbors needed rides, Suburban please. Don't take this vehicle when you're in search of a bargain, or plan to haggle.
New to Suburbans? If you haven't driven a vehicle this large before, test drive one. Also, this applies to the re-badged Suburbans too. (GMC Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade) If you buy one, get experience on the open road before driving in close quarters, especially narrow city streets. Also, there's something a little different about the driving experience of the Suburban, I can't quite put my finger on what it is.
Caution: they're similar to potato chips. Except more compelling. There was second 2500 Suburban for sale next to the one that I eventually bought, I considered going back and buying that one too. These are serious driveway decorations. One of my children bought one (a 1500 elsewhere) shortly afterwards, so we spent a little time comparing them.
Summary-this one's a keeper.
Recommended
Verified Owner
