Many think the Chevy Suburban is the pinnacle of full-size SUVs. While other carmakers have nudged into this segment, the Suburban is still considered the king. Now that 2020 Subs are coming off of two- and three-year leases, there are a lot of choices for low-mileage used models. But, how good is the 2020 Suburban?

What Edmunds, JD Power, and Consumer Reports say about the 2020 Suburban

To figure out if it is as good an SUV as its reputation, we went to the main sources for consumer reviews in 2020. That means Edmunds, Consumer Reports, and JD Power. We have compiled relevant comments, conclusions, and ratings to see what all three advocate groups had to say. 

Edmunds

Pros

• Seating for up to nine passengers
• Sizable cargo capacity
• Strong V8 engines tow and haul plenty of cargo

Cons

• Maneuvering tight spaces is tricky due to its large size
• Difficult to load items because of the high cargo floor
• Lazy throttle response makes the 5.3-liter V8 feel underpowered

What’s new

• 6.2L Performance package includes a 6.2-liter V8 plus extra technology features
• Minor revisions to feature availability
• Part of the 11th Suburban generation introduced for 2015

“Though capable and quiet, the Suburban is getting on in age. Its solid rear axle is at the root of many of the areas that need improvements, such as ride quality, interior space, and cargo room. The newer Expedition shows how Ford can do it better in almost every way. Still, the Suburban is a solid and capable workhorse.

“Although it’s tempting to go big or go home and opt for the top-of-the-line Premier trim to unlock the robust 6.2-liter V8, the extra costs involved don’t necessarily add up to the best value. We would opt for the Suburban LT and spend a few thousand dollars extra for the Luxury package, which adds desirable convenience and safety features. Get the affordable Max Trailering package if you plan to tow a lot.”

JD Power

Measured owner satisfaction with 2020 Chevrolet Suburban after 90-days of ownership.

•  Ease of getting in/out of the third-row seats
•  Vehicle’s ability to carry everything you want
•  Overall fuel economy and driving range of your vehicle/driving range and speed of charging your vehicle.

The problems experienced by owners of the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban during the first 90-days of ownership.

•  How easy it is to safely maneuver your vehicle in and out of traffic and tight parking spaces
•  Power of your vehicle’s engine/motor
•  How well does a vehicle’s interior stays at the desired temperature

JD Power says:

“Choose from three trims: LS LT and the top-of-the-line Premier. All are available with two- or four-wheel drive. With three rows of seats, you can haul your kid’s team. Or fold the second-and third-row seats flat and you can haul all their gear. An available hands-free programmable power liftgate makes loading and unloading a breeze. 

“The Suburban offers a maximum towing capability of up to 8 300 pounds. Inside you’ll find the technology you need to keep everybody entertained. An available 4G LTE Wi-Fi4 hotspot connects up to seven devices. And the available Rear-Seat Blu-ray Entertainment System keeps the crew in back occupied.”

Consumer Reports

“The Suburban is a huge, old-fashioned, truck-based SUV, the quintessential family truckster for large families who live beyond the suburbs. What sets it apart from other SUVs is that it provides three rows of seats — for carrying up to seven, eight, or even nine people — yet still retains generous cargo space, along with a hefty towing capacity. Add a luxurious and quiet interior and the added traction of four-wheel drive and you get a uniquely capable vehicle.

Based on the frame of the previous generation full-size Chevrolet Silverado pickup, the Suburban — and its GMC Yukon XL twin — is one of the last few SUVs with real truck capabilities in a world where nearly every other SUV has adopted carlike unit-body structures. Despite the Suburban’s major updates for 2015, it still delivers a relatively truck-like driving experience and fuel economy compared to better handling car-based SUVs.”

Consumer Reports highs:

Seats seven people and still has room for their luggage 

Very quiet inside

The Premier version handles decently for a vehicle of this size

Nicely finished interior with comfortable seats

Easy-to-use infotainment system

16 mpg isn’t bad, given the Suburban’s size

Good for towing

CR lows:

Giant dimensions make it hard to maneuver and park

Fuel economy 

Feels a bit underpowered

Extremely high lift to load cargo area

It’s really only at its best if you get the Premier trim