The Chevrolet Suburban (GMTT1XX, facelift 2024) equipped with the 5.3-liter V8 engine producing 355 horsepower and paired with a four-wheel-drive Hydra-Matic transmission represents the latest iteration of Chevrolet’s long-running full-size SUV. Production began in October 2024, building upon the foundation of the GMTT1XX platform, which debuted in 2021. This particular configuration positions itself as a mainstream offering within the Suburban lineup, balancing capability, comfort, and fuel efficiency for families and those requiring substantial towing capacity. It serves as a popular choice in the North American market, where large SUVs remain in high demand.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban |
| Generation | Suburban (GMTT1XX, facelift 2024) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 V8 (355 Hp) 4WD Hydra-Matic |
| Start of production | October, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 7-9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 16.8 l/100 km (14 US mpg, 16.8 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (EPA) | 14.7 l/100 km (16 US mpg, 19.2 UK mpg, 6.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm, 194.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 355 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 519 Nm @ 4100 rpm (382.79 lb.-ft. @ 4100 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EcoTec3 / L84 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV, VVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.6 l (8.03 US qt | 6.69 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 14.8 l (15.64 US qt | 13.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 2664 kg (5873.11 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 3462 kg (7632.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 798 kg (1759.29 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 106 l (28 US gal | 23.32 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3629 kg (8000.58 lbs.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 10 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring, Transverse stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer, Air Suspension – Optional |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 343×30.4 mm |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×25.4 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 265/65 R18; 275/55 R20; 275/60 R20; 275/50 R22; 285/40 R24 |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20; 22; 24 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Suburban variant lies the 5.3-liter EcoTec3 L84 V8 engine. This engine utilizes direct injection, a hallmark of modern GM engines, to improve fuel efficiency and power output. The engine employs a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with variable valve timing (VVT) to optimize performance across the rev range. Cylinder deactivation is also incorporated, allowing the engine to operate on four cylinders during light-load conditions, further enhancing fuel economy. The Hydra-Matic 10-speed automatic transmission is a key component, offering a wide gear ratio spread for improved acceleration and highway cruising. This transmission is known for its smooth shifts and responsiveness. The engine is longitudinally mounted, sending power to all four wheels via a sophisticated four-wheel-drive system.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 10-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not as quick as the available 6.2-liter V8, the 355 horsepower and 382 lb-ft of torque provide ample power for everyday driving and towing. The 10-speed transmission keeps the engine in its optimal power band, resulting in smooth acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for both fuel efficiency and towing capability. Compared to earlier Suburban models with older transmissions, the 10-speed offers a noticeable improvement in responsiveness and refinement. The four-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in various weather conditions and off-road scenarios.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8/4WD Suburban typically comes standard with a generous array of features. These include tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and Premier, add features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Optional extras include a panoramic sunroof, rear-seat entertainment system, and a premium audio system.
Chassis & Braking
The GMTT1XX Suburban utilizes an independent front suspension with coil springs and an optional air suspension system for enhanced ride comfort. The rear suspension is an independent multi-link design, also with an optional air suspension. This setup provides a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at all four corners. The braking system is equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) for improved stopping power and control. Stabilizer bars are standard front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8/4WD Suburban has been well-received by consumers and critics alike. It offers a compelling balance of power, space, and capability at a more accessible price point than the higher-end trims. Fuel economy, while not exceptional, is reasonable for a vehicle of this size and weight. Compared to the 6.2L V8, the 5.3L offers slightly lower performance but significantly better fuel economy. The 5.3L is also a more common engine choice, potentially leading to lower maintenance costs and greater parts availability in the long run. Compared to diesel-powered Suburbans, the 5.3L offers a simpler and potentially more reliable powertrain, although it lacks the diesel’s superior towing capacity.
Legacy
The EcoTec3 5.3L V8 and Hydra-Matic 10-speed transmission have proven to be a reliable powertrain combination in numerous GM vehicles. While long-term durability data for the 2024 Suburban is still emerging, the underlying technology has been in use for several years and has a generally positive reputation. The 5.3L V8 is known for its relatively simple design and robust construction. On the used car market, Suburbans equipped with this powertrain are expected to hold their value well due to their proven reliability and strong demand. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and transmission fluid services, will be crucial to ensuring the longevity of this powertrain.
