2009 Chevrolet Suburban LT2 1500

The 2009 Chevrolet Suburban LT2 1500 offers a well-appointed cabin with an upscale feel, thanks to such standard features as leather front bucket seats, a second-row bench seat with leather upholstery, tri-zone automatic climate control, and power-adjustable pedals. An ultrasonic rear parking assist and a remote vehicle starter system also come standard. In addition, the LT2 1500's AM/FM audio system includes a 6-CD changer, as well as XM satellite radio and an MP3 input jack. Other standard features for the LT2 1500 include a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, Bluetooth, cruise control, and remote keyless entry. One year of OnStar with turn-by-turn navigation, vehicle diagnostics, emergency services, and remote door unlock is also included in the standard equipment list. The LT2 1500 seats up to eight passengers in three rows. Both the second- and third-row bench seats split and fold to expand cargo space, which tops out at 137 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. Optional features include heated front seats, a navigation system, a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, and a power sunroof. Front head-curtain side-impact and rear head airbags are among the LT2 1500's many safety features.

A 310-hp, 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine powers the rear-wheel-drive LT2 1500. The V8 generates 335 lb-ft of torque and connects to a new six-speed automatic transmission with overdrive. The V8 features GM’s Active Fuel Management technology, which deactivates up to four cylinders when they're not required to improve fuel efficiency. The EPA estimates fuel economy numbers for the LT2 1500 at 14/20 mpg. The V8 runs on regular unleaded gasoline, although owners can opt for an available FlexFuel version of the 5.3-liter V8. Traction control, four-wheel antilock brakes, and the StabiliTrak electronic stability control system come standard. Exterior features for the LT2 1500 include power heated exterior mirrors, daytime running lights, a luggage rack, and 17-inch aluminum wheels. For a sportier driving experience, owners can add an optional Z71 Off-Road Package, which includes specially tuned springs and shocks, an automatic locking rear differential, a unique grille and front fascia, a Z71-specific gauge cluster, and 18-inch aluminum wheels with on-/off-road blackwall tires, among other features.

By R. Feeman