Chevrolet Suburban GMT400 7.4 i V8 4WD (290 Hp)


Overall Rating

7.7 / 10
Safety N/A / 5
Not Rated
Engine 3.5 / 5
Value 4.2 / 5
Performance 3.5 / 5
Comfort 3.8 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Chevrolet Suburban:

The Chevrolet Suburban is a series of SUVs built by Chevrolet since 1934. The longest-produced automobile nameplate in the world, the Suburban is currently in its twelfth generation, in production since the 2021 model year. Beginning life as one of the first metal-bodied station wagons, the Suburban is the progenitor of the modern full-size sport utility vehicle, combining a wagon-style body with the chassis and powertrain of a pickup truck. Alongside its Advance Design, Task Force, and C/K predecessors, the Chevrolet Silverado currently shares chassis and mechanical commonality with the Suburban and other trucks....(Read more on Wikipedia)

GMT400 Overview:

Chevrolet Suburban (GMT400). With 556 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. At around 2518 kg, it’s on the heavier side. All‑wheel drive provides excellent grip, ideal for off‑road use. A sport utility vehicle offering higher ground clearance and versatile cargo space. With seating for 9, it’s perfect for larger families.

Safety Rating
Not rated
Euro NCAP Year N/A
Adult Occupant N/A
Stars N/A
Expert Note:
The GMT400 Suburban was primarily designed for the North American market and was not subjected to Euro NCAP testing. While equipped with basic safety features like ABS, its overall safety performance reflects the standards of its era, lacking modern advanced driver-assistance systems and occupant protection technologies.

7.4 i V8 4WD (290 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 4 stars

Performance Verdict

The most powerful gasoline option, delivering formidable acceleration and effortless towing, especially with the added 4WD capability.

Fuel Economy

The thirstiest engine in the lineup, demanding frequent fuel stops. Best suited for those who need maximum power and can absorb the running costs.

Best Use Case: Extreme towing, high-performance utility, off-road enthusiasts seeking maximum power and traction, or those who simply want the biggest engine.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Exceptional interior space and cargo capacity
  • • Robust V8 engine options for strong towing and hauling
  • • Proven reliability and durability (especially gasoline V8s)
  • • Available 4WD for off-road and all-weather capability
  • • Abundant and affordable aftermarket parts and support
  • • Comfortable for long-distance cruising with many passengers

Cons:

  • • Very poor fuel economy across the gasoline lineup
  • • Truck-like ride quality can be harsh on rough roads
  • • Dated interior design and features compared to modern SUVs
  • • Large exterior dimensions make parking and maneuvering challenging
  • • Limited modern safety features (no Euro NCAP rating)
  • • Some common issues with 6.5L diesel (e.g., PMD, cooling)

Specifications:

Specifications are compared to those of the previous generation(GMT400: 1995 - 1999).

General:
Brand:Chevrolet
Model:Suburban
Generation:GMT400
Modification (Engine):7.4 i V8 4WD (290 Hp)
Start of production:1996
End of production:2001
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:SUV
Seats:9
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:290 Hp @ 4200 rpm. Same horsepower
Power per litre:38.9 Hp/l [Same length.]
Torque:556 Nm @ 3200 rpm.
Engine Model/Code:L29 More details about the engine L29
Engine displacement:7446
Number of cylinders:8
Engine configuration:V-engine
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Single-point injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Engine oil capacity:6.3 l
Coolant:23.5 l
Engine layout:Front, Longitudinal
Cylinder Bore:108 mm
Piston Stroke:101.6 mm
Compression ratio:9:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Petrol (Gasoline)
Weight-to-power ratio:8.7 kg/Hp, 115.2 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:4.5 kg/Nm, 220.8 Nm/tonne
Space:
Kerb Weight:2518
Max. weight:3651
Max load:1133
Fuel tank capacity:179 l
Size:
Length:5588 mm [Same length.]
Width:1948 mm [Same width.]
Height:1836 mm [10mm more]
Wheelbase:3340 mm [Same wheelbase.]
Powertrain:
Drive wheelAll wheel drive (4x4)
Number of gears4
Transmission typeAutomatic
Front brakesDisc [bad for performance and cooling.]
Rear brakesDrum [bad for performance and cooling.]
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size245/75 R16
Front suspensionDouble wishbone
Rear suspensionLeaf spring

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