When did GMC stop making a Suburban?
The GMC Suburban name was retired after the 1999 model year, with GM shifting the long-wheelbase GMC SUV to the Yukon XL starting with the 2000 model year.
What happened to the GMC Suburban?
The GMC Suburban was the brand’s long-wheelbase full-size SUV, sharing GM’s large SUV platform with its Chevrolet counterpart. In the transition to a new generation at the turn of the millennium, GM discontinued the Suburban badge for GMC and introduced the Yukon XL as the successor for GMC’s extended-length SUV lineup. Notably, Chevrolet continues to offer the Suburban as its own model.
Timeline of the GMC Suburban and its replacement
The following timeline highlights the end of the GMC Suburban and the transition to the Yukon XL.
- The GMC Suburban remained in GMC’s lineup through the late 1990s, aligning with the Chevrolet Suburban on GM’s shared platform.
- 1999 model year: Last year GMC offered the Suburban badge in its lineup.
- 2000 model year: GMC introduced the Yukon XL, effectively replacing the Suburban in GMC’s lineup.
Since then, GMC has marketed its largest SUVs as the Yukon and Yukon XL, while the Chevrolet Suburban has continued under the Chevrolet brand.
Current status and how to tell them apart
Why the change occurred
Summary
GMC stopped offering a Suburban after the 1999 model year, with the Yukon XL taking its place in the 2000 model year. The Chevrolet Suburban remains in production, while GMC’s extended-length SUV lineup is now branded as Yukon and Yukon XL. The Suburban badge is no longer used by GMC.
When did Suburban change body style?
The Chevrolet Suburban's body style has changed significantly over the years, with major redesigns occurring in 1973, 2000, 2007, and 2015. Key changes include the adoption of the standard four-door body style in 1973, a sleeker design and platform integration in the early 2000s, a more technologically advanced and luxury-oriented design in 2007, and a more angular and upscale redesign with aluminum body panels and an independent rear suspension in 2015.
Major body style changes
- 1973: The Suburban adopted the familiar four-door body style and joined the Rounded-Line C/K series, moving away from its truck-based roots to a more station wagon-like appearance.
- 2000: A new, sleeker generation was introduced, blending traditional features with modern conveniences like second-row captain's seats and built-in DVD players.
- 2007: The tenth generation was launched, featuring a more technological and luxury-oriented design with available features like a rearview camera and a Wi-Fi hotspot.
- 2015: The eleventh generation was completely redesigned with a more angular, aerodynamic, and upscale body, while also incorporating aluminum body panels to reduce weight.
- 2021: The twelfth generation marked another complete redesign, making the Suburban even longer and adding an independent rear suspension for the first time, which increased interior and cargo space.
What years of Suburban to avoid?
You should generally avoid Chevrolet Suburban model years from 2007-2009 and 2015-2017, as these years are frequently cited for significant mechanical issues. The 2007-2009 models are particularly known for problems with the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to engine damage, while 2015-2017 models are often associated with issues in the powertrain and other components. Newer models, specifically 2021-2024, have also been subject to recalls for potential engine damage due to defects in connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, according to Cars.com.
Specific model years to avoid:
- 2007-2009: These years are frequently mentioned as problematic due to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption and other engine issues.
- 2015-2017: These models are often cited for issues related to the powertrain, and the 8-speed transmission has also been a source of trouble.
- 2021-2024: These newer models have been recalled due to manufacturing defects in the connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components, which could lead to engine damage and failure.
Potential issues in other years:
- 2018-2022: Some reported issues include shaking while driving, stiff brake pedals, and check engine lights.
- 2010: Known for transmission slipping and fuel pump failures, which can be avoided with proper maintenance.
- 2004: This model year has had multiple recalls and potential trouble spots, including the transmission and climate control system, according to Consumer Reports and JustAnswer.
When did GMC switch from Suburban to Yukon?
2000
GMC brought out its version in 1937. These vehicles were also known as the "Suburban Carryall" until GM shortened the name to simply "Suburban." GMC's equivalent to the Chevrolet model was originally named "Suburban" as well, until being rebranded as "Yukon XL" for the 2000 model year.
What is the GMC version of a Suburban called?
The GMC version of the Chevrolet Suburban is called the GMC Yukon XL. Both are built on the same platform and share a long wheelbase, with the Yukon XL being the GMC counterpart to the longer-wheelbase Chevrolet Suburban.
- Current model: Since 2000, the GMC version has been marketed as the Yukon XL.
- Historical model: GMC also sold a model with the "Suburban" name until 1999.
- Relationship: The Yukon XL and Suburban are essentially the same size and have many shared components, differing mainly in trim and features.
