The Good
The 2021 Suburban offers impressive V8 power for confident towing and acceleration, coupled with a remarkably smooth and comfortable ride thanks to its new independent rear suspension. Its vast interior and modern design appeal to families seeking both practical space and a commanding presence. The available Duramax diesel significantly boosts efficiency, while strong resale value and generally solid reliability make it a smart, long-term investment for those needing a versatile, go-anywhere family hauler.
The Bad
Despite its strengths, the 2021 Suburban's sheer size can make urban parking and maneuvering challenging. Fuel economy with the gasoline V8 engines remains a significant consideration for many. While higher trims boast premium interiors, base models can feel less refined. Early production models have occasionally reported minor infotainment glitches, and the price point, especially for top trims, is quite high.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban: Quick Overview
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban offers a versatile lineup of engines and features:
- Engine Options:
- 5.3L Ecotec3 V8 (standard on LS, LT, RST, Z71, Premier)
- 6.2L Ecotec3 V8 (standard on High Country, optional on RST, Z71, Premier)
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 (optional on all trims except Z71 initially, then available on Z71 later in the model year)
- Horsepower:
- 5.3L V8: 355 hp at 5,600 rpm
- 6.2L V8: 420 hp at 5,600 rpm
- 3.0L Duramax Diesel: 277 hp at 3,750 rpm
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated MPG, 2WD/4WD):
- 5.3L V8: 16/19 city/highway (2WD), 15/19 city/highway (4WD)
- 6.2L V8: 15/20 city/highway (2WD), 14/19 city/highway (4WD)
- 3.0L Duramax Diesel: 21/27 city/highway (2WD), 20/26 city/highway (4WD)
- 0-60 MPH Times (Approximate):
- 5.3L V8: Around 7.0 seconds
- 6.2L V8: Around 6.0 seconds
- 3.0L Duramax Diesel: Around 8.0 seconds
- Max Towing Capacity:
- Up to 8,300 lbs (with 5.3L V8 and Max Trailering Package, 2WD)
- Up to 8,200 lbs (with 6.2L V8 and Max Trailering Package, 2WD)
- Up to 8,100 lbs (with 3.0L Diesel and Max Trailering Package, 2WD)
- Trim-Level Features:
- LS: 10.2-inch infotainment, cloth seats, 8-way power driver's seat, Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™, LED headlights, forward collision warning.
- LT: Adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, Bose® 9-speaker audio, wireless device charging, hands-free power liftgate.
- RST: Sporty styling cues, 22-inch wheels, black exterior accents, unique Jet Black interior with red stitching.
- Z71: Off-road package with skid plates, two-speed transfer case, hill descent control, unique front fascia for improved approach angle, available air ride adaptive suspension.
- Premier: Further luxury with perforated leather, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, power-folding third row, magnetic ride control, power steering column, safety alert seat.
- High Country: Top-tier luxury, standard 6.2L V8, unique grille, 22-inch wheels, head-up display, surround vision, rear camera mirror, upgraded interior materials and trim, available air ride adaptive suspension.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Minivan |
| Category | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | ARLINGTON |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 8000 pounds |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | 7 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | L84 Direct Injection Aluminum GEN 5, VAR 2 |
| Engine Size | 5.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic 10-speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 10-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Standard |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban Have?
Regarding official recalls, the 2021 Suburban has several significant ones issued by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration):
- Propeller Shaft Universal Joint Failure: Certain vehicles, including the 2021 Suburban, were recalled because an improperly installed universal joint on the propeller shaft could separate, leading to a loss of drive power or increasing the risk of a crash.
- Seat Belt Assembly Defects: Specific models were recalled for potentially faulty rivet attaching the seat belt webbing to the retractor, which could prevent the seat belt from properly restraining an occupant in a crash.
- Fuel Pump Module: Some vehicles were recalled due to a potential issue with the fuel pump module, which could deform and cause a fuel leak, posing a fire risk.
- Daytime Running Lights (DRL) Issue: Certain vehicles had DRLs that might not deactivate when the headlights are on, potentially violating federal safety standards.
- Airbag Inflator Modules: A recall was issued for incorrectly manufactured front-row passenger airbag inflator modules, which might not properly deploy during a crash.
Long-term reliability concerns often center around advanced optional features. The available air ride adaptive suspension and magnetic ride control, while providing superior comfort, are complex systems that can be costly to repair if they fail outside of warranty. Owners should also be mindful of potential fuel system issues, as experienced by previous GM models. Overall, the underlying V8 engines and transmissions are generally robust, but consistent maintenance is crucial to mitigate future problems and ensure long-term durability. Owners are strongly advised to check for open recalls on their specific VIN.
How long will the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban last?
Over time, however, certain weaknesses may emerge. Components of the optional air ride adaptive suspension and magnetic ride control can be expensive to replace if they wear out. Rust can become a factor in regions exposed to road salt. Minor electrical issues or wear on interior components like screens and buttons may appear. However, the core mechanicals are strong, making it a dependable vehicle if well-cared for.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Standard across all trims is a 10.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Chevrolet's latest software. It includes wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ integration, Bluetooth® connectivity, and multiple USB ports. A Wi-Fi hotspot is also standard. Higher trims or optional packages add navigation, a premium Bose® audio system (9 or 10 speakers), and a highly sought-after rear-seat entertainment system featuring dual 12.6-inch screens mounted on the back of the front seats, offering independent streaming and connectivity. Wireless device charging is also available on most trims above LS.
Driver-Assistance & Safety Features:
Standard safety features on all 2021 Suburbans include a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems: Forward Collision Warning, Automatic Emergency Braking, Front Pedestrian Braking, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and a HD Rear Vision Camera. Safety Alert Seat, which vibrates the driver's seat cushion to warn of potential dangers, is standard on Premier and High Country trims.
Optional or higher-trim driver-assistance features significantly enhance safety and convenience. These include Adaptive Cruise Control, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert, Front and Rear Park Assist, Surround Vision (360-degree camera), Rear Pedestrian Alert, and a Rear Camera Mirror.
Crash-Test Ratings:
The 2021 Chevrolet Suburban received a 4-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It scored 4 stars in frontal crash tests, 5 stars in side crash tests, and 3-4 stars in rollover tests (3 stars for 2WD, 4 stars for 4WD). The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) did not provide comprehensive ratings for the 2021 Suburban, as they typically do not conduct full tests on vehicles of this size and weight class. However, the extensive suite of active safety technologies contributes significantly to overall vehicle safety.
What Colors Options are Available?
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Prices and Market Value
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Cost of Ownership
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Fuel Efficiency
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Recalls & Defects
Seats
Seats:critical Fasteners
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:critical Fasteners
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:critical Fasteners
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump:control/Drive Module
Electrical System:software
AIR Bags:srs Malfunction Warning Lamp/Light
Seat Belts:critical Fasteners
Power Train:driveline:driveshaft
Steering:steering Control Module
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:rear/Other
Exterior Lighting:lighting Control Module:software
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module:software
Power Train:automatic Transmission:fluid/Lubricant:valves/Valve Body
2021 Chevrolet Suburban Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban Compare to Other Minivan?
In terms of Performance, the Suburban's range of V8 engines offers strong power, particularly the 6.2L, which delivers robust acceleration. The available 3.0L Duramax diesel provides excellent torque and class-leading fuel economy for this segment. The new independent rear suspension significantly improves ride comfort and handling over its rivals, particularly the solid-axle designs of the Sequoia and Armada. The Ford Expedition, with its standard EcoBoost V6, offers competitive torque and efficiency without a V8.
When it comes to Features, the 2021 Suburban shines with its expansive interior volume, class-leading cargo space, and a well-integrated 10.2-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay®/Android Auto™. Its optional rear-seat entertainment system with dual 12.6-inch screens is a standout. The Expedition offers similar tech and space, while the Armada feels a bit dated in its infotainment. The GMC Yukon XL offers a more premium interior than the Suburban, and the Escalade ESV elevates luxury and tech to a higher level with its massive curved OLED display.
Reliability is generally strong across the class. While the Suburban's V8s are proven, the first year of a new generation can have minor kinks. The Toyota Sequoia has a long-standing reputation for bulletproof reliability, though its tech and design are less modern. The Ford Expedition generally performs well, and GM products are considered reliable contenders, especially post-warranty on major components.
Price-wise, the Suburban positions itself as a mainstream but premium full-size SUV. It's generally more affordable than its luxury counterpart, the Cadillac Escalade ESV, but similarly priced to a comparably equipped Ford Expedition or GMC Yukon XL. The Nissan Armada is often a value leader, while the older Toyota Sequoia can sometimes be found at a lower price point, though it lags in modernity.
Similar Alternatives:
- GMC Yukon XL: A very similar vehicle mechanically, offering a slightly more upscale interior design and different trim packaging. Often a direct alternative if you want a bit more premium feel without stepping up to Cadillac.
- Ford Expedition Max: Offers comparable space and towing with a powerful and efficient EcoBoost V6. Its independent rear suspension also provides a comfortable ride.
Better Alternative (for specific needs):
- Toyota Sequoia (upcoming new generation): For absolute long-term reliability and lower long-term maintenance costs, the Sequoia traditionally holds the edge, though the 2021 model (prior to its 2023 redesign) felt very old inside. The new generation will be a stronger competitor for modern tech and efficiency.
- Cadillac Escalade ESV: If luxury, cutting-edge technology, and maximum curb appeal are priorities and budget allows, the Escalade ESV is the superior choice, sharing its robust underpinnings with the Suburban but elevating every aspect.
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban a Good Minivan?
Considering its value, buying a 2021 Suburban on the used market (2-3 years old) offers an excellent balance, having absorbed the initial depreciation while still benefiting from modern features and potentially remaining under powertrain warranty. For budget-conscious buyers, the LS or LT trims provide ample features. If off-road capability is desired, the Z71 is a strong choice. Those prioritizing luxury and power should aim for the Premier or High Country with the 6.2L V8. The diesel engine option is highly recommended for anyone prioritizing fuel economy without sacrificing capability. Overall, it's a highly capable, comfortable, and versatile SUV.