How much has changed in the Chevrolet Suburban in 85 years?

The Chevrolet Suburban has a long and storied history with its first-generation making its way into the market in 1935. From its introduction into the market, it has seen multiple roles – from a military truck and now as a family hauler. The Suburban is also one of the longest-running nameplates in the American automotive market.

The first generation of the iconic SUV came in the form of a station wagon with a body on frame chassis from a small truck. The “Suburban Carryall ” as its commonly called focused on functionality and lived up to its carry-all nameplate. The whole family and their luggage could easily all fit in one truck. Powering the truck was Chevrolet’s “Silver bolt” inline-six engine that produced 60 hp. Later on, that power would increase to 79 hp.

While the first generation had the family in mind, the second generation of the SUV was more geared towards military use. These were used as military transport vehicles and the soldiers who used them fell in love with the vehicle. After World War II had concluded, the Suburban found its way into the public market. It carried over the seating capacity and rough and tough quality that its military variant had.

The third generation represented a time in America when the people needed a dependable workhorse, continuing from where the second generation left but more suited for peacetime rather than war. It did still, however, retain its go-anywhere capabilities.

The next few generations got bigger and more dependable, adapting to the needs of the ever-changing American automotive market. The seventh-generation of the Suburban would be the one that defined the nameplate. It was tall and aggressive and packed a powerful engine under the hood. The subsequent generation would add luxury features making the already tough and reliable vehicle more attractive.

While the military loved the vehicle for its inconspicuous looks and tough build quality, the vehicle still had a way of making its presence felt especially in a convoy. With the introduction of luxury amenities into the Suburban, it also became the go-to choice of vehicle for celebrities. 

From this point onwards, the Suburban would become a household name being the choice of military personnel, as well as celebrities and rappers. Each generation of the beloved SUV added more to its already legendary nameplate. 

The 11th generation Suburban aims to be more efficient and more fuel-efficient thanks to an EcoTec3 5.3-liter powerplant. The SUV even has improved aerodynamics over the previous generation. It also features a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot as a standard. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.

With the Chevrolet Suburban continuing its legacy of big, tough, bold, and luxurious, with the new 12th generation SUV, it’s not hard to see why the vehicle is still so popular and why the moniker has lasted so long.