2009 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500

The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban LS 1500 accommodates up to nine passengers in three rows of cloth-upholstered bench seats. Adding an upscale touch, the leather-wrapped steering wheel comes equipped with audio and cruise controls, and dual-zone climate control features heating and cooling vents for rear-seat passengers. Other standard equipment includes Bluetooth wireless connectivity, cruise control, and remote keyless entry. For entertainment, the LS 1500 comes equipped with an AM/FM audio system with a CD player, XM satellite radio, and an MP3 input jack. One year of OnStar with the Safe and Sound Plan, featuring vehicle diagnostics, emergency services, and remote door unlock, also comes standard. The second- and third-row seats split 60/40 and fold down to expand cargo space to a maximum of 137 cubic feet. Safety equipment includes front head-curtain side-impact and rear head airbags.

A 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine generating 310 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque powers the rear-wheel-drive LS 1500 for 2009. The engine links to a new six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive, which replaces the previous year's four-speed automatic. The V8 features GM’s Active Fuel Management technology, which deactivates up to four cylinders when they're not needed to improve fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates fuel economy numbers for the LS 1500 at 14/20 mpg. Four-wheel antilock brakes, traction control, and the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system all come standard. Exterior features for the half-ton LS 1500 include power heated exterior mirrors, daytime running lights, front tow hooks, a luggage rack, and 17-inch aluminum wheels.

By R. Feeman