The Chevrolet Suburban (GMT900) 5.3L V8 with FlexFuel capability and automatic transmission, produced from 2009 to 2013, represents a significant iteration of Chevrolet’s long-running full-size SUV. This variant occupied a central position within the GMT900 Suburban lineup, offering a balance between capability, fuel efficiency (particularly with E85 fuel), and passenger comfort. It was a key player in the American full-size SUV market, catering to families and those needing substantial towing and cargo capacity. The GMT900 generation marked a shift towards more refined interiors and improved build quality compared to its predecessors.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Suburban |
| Generation | Suburban (GMT900) |
| Type | 5.3L i V8 (310/326 Hp) Flex Fuel AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 9 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm, 171.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 310 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.2 Hp/l |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 326 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre (Ethanol – E85) | 61.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 454 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 334.85 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 472 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LMG |
| Engine displacement | 5326 cm3, 325.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm, 3.78 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 92 mm, 3.62 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l, 6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt |
| Coolant | 17.3 l, 18.28 US qt | 15.22 UK qt |
| Kerb Weight | 2647 kg, 5835.64 lbs |
| Max. weight | 3966 kg, 8743.53 lbs |
| Max load | 1319 kg, 2907.9 lbs |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 1297 l, 45.8 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 3890 l, 137.37 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 119 l, 31.44 US gal | 26.18 UK gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 3583 kg, 7899.16 lbs |
| Length | 5648 mm, 222.36 in |
| Width | 2010 mm, 79.13 in |
| Height | 1951 mm, 76.81 in |
| Wheelbase | 3302 mm, 130 in |
| Front track | 1732 mm, 68.19 in |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm, 67.01 in |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 232 mm, 9.13 in |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13.1 m, 42.98 ft |
| Approach angle | 16.74° |
| Departure angle | 20.93° |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 265/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Suburban variant is the 5.3-liter (325 cubic inch) LMG V8 engine. This engine is a member of Chevrolet’s Vortec family, known for its robust construction and relatively simple design. The LMG features an aluminum cylinder head and a cast iron block. It utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder intake port. The engine is designed to run on regular unleaded gasoline, but is also FlexFuel compatible, meaning it can operate on blends up to 85% ethanol (E85). Running on E85 provides a slight power increase (326 hp versus 310 hp) but typically results in lower fuel economy. The engine’s valvetrain employs two valves per cylinder, operated by a single camshaft. The 4L80-E four-speed automatic transmission is paired with the LMG engine. This transmission is known for its durability and ability to handle the high torque output of the V8. While not the most modern transmission in terms of gear count, it was a reliable workhorse.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 and 4L80-E automatic combination delivers adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph typically takes around 7.5-8.5 seconds, depending on load and conditions. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for towing and hauling, rather than outright speed. The lower gear ratios provide good low-end torque for getting the Suburban moving with a heavy load, while the higher gears help to maintain reasonable fuel economy on the highway. Compared to the available 6.2L V8, this variant offers less power and quicker acceleration. However, it provides a noticeable improvement in fuel economy. The 4L80-E transmission, while durable, can feel somewhat dated compared to more modern six- or eight-speed automatics, exhibiting noticeable shifts.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 5.3L V8 Automatic Suburban typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels, such as the LT and LTZ, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a premium audio system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a rear-seat entertainment system, power-adjustable pedals, and a sunroof. The Suburban’s spacious interior was a key selling point, offering seating for up to nine passengers. The third-row seats could be folded flat to create a large cargo area.
Chassis & Braking
The GMT900 Suburban utilizes a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension features an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension employs an independent multi-link setup, also with coil springs. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride, but can feel somewhat floaty, especially when the vehicle is unloaded. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) standard. The braking system is adequate for the Suburban’s weight, but requires a firm pedal input.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 5.3L V8 Automatic Suburban was generally well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong towing capacity. However, some critics noted its relatively low fuel economy, especially compared to newer SUVs. Compared to the 6.2L V8 variant, the 5.3L offered a more affordable price point and better fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for families and those who didn’t require the maximum towing capacity. The 5.3L also proved to be more reliable than the 6.2L in some cases, with fewer reports of oil consumption issues.
Legacy
The GMT900 Suburban 5.3L V8 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The 4L80-E transmission, while older, is known for its durability. The LMG engine, when properly maintained, can easily exceed 200,000 miles. On the used car market today, these Suburbans are readily available and relatively affordable. They remain popular choices for those needing a large, capable SUV for family transportation or towing. However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues such as oil leaks and sensor failures, and should ensure that the vehicle has been properly maintained.
