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Is a Suburban a car or truck?

The Suburban is a large sport utility vehicle (SUV) that is classified as a truck, not a car. It is a full-size SUV that is built on a truck chassis and offers seating for up to nine passengers, as well as ample cargo space.


What is a Suburban?


The Suburban is a full-size SUV that has been in production since 1935, making it one of the longest-running nameplates in automotive history. It is manufactured by General Motors and is available in both Chevrolet and GMC variants. The Suburban is known for its spacious interior, powerful engine options, and rugged off-road capabilities.


Why is the Suburban Classified as a Truck?



  • The Suburban is built on a truck-based chassis, which gives it a more robust and durable construction compared to car-based SUVs.

  • It is equipped with a powerful V8 engine, which is typical of trucks, rather than the smaller, more fuel-efficient engines found in many cars.

  • The Suburban has a higher ground clearance and a more rugged suspension system, which allows it to handle off-road terrain better than a typical car.

  • The Suburban is classified as a light-duty truck by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).


While the Suburban may share some similarities with large SUVs, its truck-based construction and capabilities place it firmly in the truck category.


Key Features of the Suburban



  • Seating for up to 9 passengers

  • Powerful V8 engine options

  • Towing capacity of up to 8,300 pounds

  • Spacious cargo area with up to 121.7 cubic feet of storage

  • Available four-wheel drive for off-road capability

  • Rugged, truck-based construction


In conclusion, the Suburban is a large, truck-based SUV that is classified as a truck, not a car. Its robust construction, powerful engine, and off-road capabilities set it apart from traditional passenger cars and place it firmly in the truck category.

Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.