Chevy added a driver's airbag in 1995 (and a passenger bag in 1997), while slightly reworking the interior. At the time, the interiors were functional and sturdy, but they look dated today. Overall, the Suburban is praised for a decent highway ride at the expense of handling.
In our research, we found anecdotal evidence that the Suburban, like a lot of GM vehicles of the period, runs hot and cold in terms of maintenance. Some are fine; others are a lot of trouble. Our best advice is to find the nicest-kept, lowest-mileage Suburban you can and be sure to get the full maintenance history from the owner. Brakes and steering seem to be two trouble spots, but there are reports of engine and transmission troubles, too. See that all the recalls have been addressed and don't buy a junker. That's sound advice for a work-class dog--or any vehicle.
| 1992-1999 Chevrolet Suburban |
| Body type | 4-door SUV |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, RWD or 4WD |
| Airbags | Driver, passenger |
| Base engine | 5.7L/210-hp OHV V-8 ('92-'94); 5.7L/200-hp OHV V-8 ('95); 5.7L/250-hp OHV V-8 ('96-on) |
| Opt. engine | 6.5L/190-hp OHV V-8 turbodiesel; 7.4L/230-hp OHV V-8 ('92-'95); 7.4L/290-hp OHV V-8 ('96-on) |
| Brakes, f/r | Disc/drum, standard ABS |
| Price range, wlsl/ret (IntelliChoice) | $3229/$5858 ('92 C1500) $10,099/$14,978 ('99 K2500) |
| Recalls | Too many to list, see intellichoice.com |
| NHTSA frontal impact rating, driver/pass | Four stars/four stars ('97-on) |