When did Chevy start making Suburbans?
Chevrolet began making Suburbans in 1935, launching the Suburban Carryall as the first model to carry that name. The vehicle has since evolved into Chevrolet’s flagship full-size SUV and is widely recognized as one of the longest-running nameplates in American automotive history.
The Suburban’s origins lie in the 1935 introduction of the Suburban Carryall, built by Briggs Manufacturing on a Chevrolet truck chassis. Over the decades it grew from a rugged, utility-focused wagon into today’s large family SUV, remaining in production for more than eight decades and expanding its role from fleet workhorse to mainstream family hauler.
Origins and early development
In its infancy, the Suburban was conceived as a practical, spacious wagon designed to transport both people and cargo. Built by Briggs Manufacturing for Chevrolet, it set the template for a vehicle type that would endure for generations: a long-roof wagon capable of handling rough roads, large loads, and multiple passengers.
Key milestones in its early years highlight the Suburban’s dual purpose: utility and comfort, with ongoing refinements that increased capacity, durability, and versatility while adapting to changing fashion and technology trends.
- 1935 debut as the Suburban Carryall, introducing the Suburban name and establishing the long-roof wagon segment.
- Postwar and mid‑century refinements expanded seating, cargo space, and construction techniques to meet growing demand.
- Evolution into a full-size SUV format, keeping pace with consumer needs for families, fleets, and adventurers.
- Modern era continuity: the Suburban remains Chevrolet’s flagship large SUV, closely aligned with GMC’s Yukon XL lineup and sharing engineering with related platforms.
Today’s Suburban emphasizes spacious interiors, substantial towing capability, and modern technology, while preserving the core idea of a durable, cargo- and passenger-friendly wagon that can handle long journeys and everyday hauling alike.
Today: The Suburban in Chevrolet's lineup
As of the 2020s, the Chevrolet Suburban continues to be produced and sold, serving as the largest passenger vehicle in Chevrolet’s lineup. It remains a staple for large families, commercial fleets, and outdoor enthusiasts who require ample space and capability, and it maintains a close relationship with its sibling, the Tahoe, as well as GM’s Yukon XL lineup.
In essence, the Suburban began in 1935 and has stayed in production for decades, evolving to meet changing tastes and technologies while preserving its core mission: to offer abundant space, durability, and versatility in a single, recognizable wagon-like body.
Summary
The Chevrolet Suburban’s origin date is 1935, when it debuted as the Suburban Carryall. Since then, it has grown into Chevrolet’s enduring full-size SUV, remaining in production into the 2020s and continuing to symbolize space, practicality, and rugged reliability for families and fleets alike.
What year did Chevrolet start making suburbans?
The Chevrolet Suburban first came out in 1935 when it was introduced to the public as the "Carryall Suburban". While there were earlier models for military use in 1933, the 1935 version is considered the first generation intended for the general public.
- 1935: The first generation Suburban is released as a two-door, steel-bodied, station wagon on a truck chassis, with seating for up to eight people.
- 1937: GMC releases its own version of the Suburban.
- 1941-1946: The second generation is built, with production continuing during World War II for military transport.
- 1947: The third generation Suburban is released after the war, which has been in continuous production ever since.
When did they stop making 2500 suburbans?
Chevrolet stopped making the 2500 Suburban at the end of the 2014 model year, with the last generation being the GMT-900 series. The heavy-duty 2500 models were discontinued when the Suburban was redesigned for the 2015 model year, which did not include a heavy-duty version for the standard consumer market.
- Last model year: 2014
- Reason for discontinuation: The model was retired with the end of the GMT-900 generation, and a heavy-duty version was not included in the subsequent redesign for the 2015 model year.
- Availability: Since 2015, the Suburban has not been offered in a standard 2500 heavy-duty model for general sale.
What year is it Suburban to stay away from?
You should generally stay away from 2007-2009 Suburbans due to issues with Active Fuel Management (AFM), piston ring problems, and transmission issues. Other years to be cautious of include the initial years of a new generation, such as 2015-2016, and some newer models like 2018 and later due to problems with injectors, transmissions, and A/C.
Years with common issues
- 2007-2009: This is the most frequently cited range to avoid due to widespread problems with the V8 engines' AFM system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption, piston ring failure, and general engine issues. They may also have issues with the 4WD transfer case and transmission.
- 2015-2016: The first couple of years of the new generation are often recommended to approach with caution due to potential issues with a redesign.
- 2018 and later: Some users report more problems with later models, citing issues with injectors, transmissions, and A/C systems.
Years to consider
- Generally reliable: The 2000-2006 models are often cited as being fairly reliable, with the 5.3L engine being dependable despite minor quirks.
- Good for avoiding initial redesign issues: Models like the 2011-2014 or 2019-2020 Suburbans are sometimes suggested as good options that avoid the first-year problems of a new generation.
How much did a Suburban cost in 1997?
1997 Chevrolet Suburban 1500 pricing starts at $2,326 for the Suburban 1500 Sport Utility, which had a starting MSRP of $27,924 when new. The range-topping 1997 Suburban 1500 Sport Utility starts at $2,326 today, originally priced from $27,924. KBB Fair Purchase Price (national avg.)
