How much horsepower does a 2008 Suburban 5.3 have?
The 2008 Suburban with the 5.3-liter V8 is rated at 315 horsepower. This figure comes from Chevrolet’s official specifications for the 5.3L engine used in the Suburban 1500 lineup.
Below, we unpack what that horsepower means in day-to-day driving, outline the engine’s configuration, and explain how performance is perceived in a full-size SUV that's commonly used for towing and family hauling.
Engine specifications at a glance
Key technical figures for the 2008 Suburban’s 5.3L V8 are summarized below for quick reference.
- Engine: 5.3-liter V8 (Vortec 5300)
- Horsepower: 315 hp
- Torque: 335 lb-ft
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
- Drive configurations: 2WD and 4WD available
These figures reflect the manufacturer’s official rating for the 2008 Suburban with the 5.3L engine and are used for comparison with other vehicles in the same class.
Performance in context
In practice, horsepower denotes the engine’s peak power output, while real-world performance is affected by drivetrain losses, vehicle weight, gearing, and altitude. The Suburban’s 315 hp provides confident highway merging, strong overtaking capability, and solid towing performance, all while prioritizing durability and smooth operation for everyday use.
For buyers weighing this engine against others, the 5.3L V8 offers a balance of power and reliability that suits a large SUV used for family transport, cargo, and occasional heavy loads. If you regularly haul heavy trailers or drive in demanding conditions, torque delivery and gearing will play significant roles in how that horsepower translates to real-world performance.
Summary
The 2008 Suburban’s 5.3-liter V8 delivers a manufacturer-rated 315 horsepower, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. This combination offered a capable, durable powerplant suitable for daily driving, family duties, and towing needs in the late-2000s Suburban lineup.
How many miles per gallon does a 2008 Suburban 5.3 get?
14/20 mpg city/highway
Mileage, of course, is never going to be stellar in an SUV this large and powerful, yet the Suburban is better than others in its class. The 5.3-liter version is rated at 14/20 mpg city/highway with two-wheel drive and 14/19 mpg with four-wheel drive. The two-wheel-drive Expedition rates 12/18 mpg.
What year is bad for suburbans?
Years to avoid for the Chevy Suburban include 2007–2009, due to potential engine issues like excessive oil consumption from Active Fuel Management (AFM) piston ring problems. The 2010–2014 models are also a concern due to AFM issues, oil consumption, and recalls related to Takata airbags. 2015–2017 and some newer models may have issues with the 8-speed transmission and other electrical or mechanical problems.
You can watch this video to learn about problems with Chevy Suburbans from 2007 to 2023: 57sOBD InsightsYouTube · Feb 2, 2024
Specific years to approach with caution
- 2007–2009: These models are known for significant engine problems related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption.
- 2010–2014: While the 6-speed transmission was introduced in 2010, these years still had issues with the AFM system, oil consumption, and recalls for Takata airbags.
- 2015–2017: These models are associated with problems with the 8-speed transmission.
- 2018–2022: Some owners report issues with the engine, transmission, and air conditioning, particularly in the 2015–2017 models.
- 2021–2024: Recalls have been issued for engine manufacturing defects in these model years, affecting the connecting rod and/or crankshaft.
This video discusses engine problems with the Active Fuel Management system in Chevy Suburbans: 57sSUBOVERLANDYouTube · Jun 9, 2024
What to look for instead
- 2000–2006: These models are generally considered more reliable, especially those without the AFM system.
- 2011–2014: The AFM system was supposedly fixed in these years, but still check for issues related to the 6-speed transmission.
- 2018–2020: Some owners consider these years to be reliable, but be aware of potential transmission issues with 8-speed transmissions.
- 2021–2024: Some owners consider these models to be more reliable, but check for recalls related to engine defects.
What 5.3 is in a 2008 suburban?
The 5.3 liter 4WD "E85 FlexFuel Engine," which is available as an option on the 2WD, gets an EPA estimated 14 miles per gallon in the city and 19 on the highway, but can operate with either unleaded gas or a cleaner-burning though less efficient ethanol/gasoline mix.
How much horsepower does a 2008 Suburban have?
320 horsepower
How much horsepower does a 2008 Suburban 1500 have? All 2008 Suburban 1500 trim variations have 320 horsepower.
