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The Chevrolet Suburban | Chicago Chevrolet Dealer

First introduced in 1936, the Chevrolet Suburban reigns as the longest-lived continuous automobile nameplate still in production.  When the Suburban made its first appearance, it was actually called the "Suburban Carryall."  The term "Suburban" was initially a generic automotive moniker for a windowed, station wagon type body on a truck frame, and was used by other auto manufacturers like Dodge, Plymouth and Studebaker until 1988 when General Motors trademarked the name.

The first generation 1936 Suburban seated up to 8 passengers, with 2 doors and a 2-piece tailgate.  The body was entirely metal and the engine was 6-cylinder at 90 horsepower.  Its cost was only $675, and was a very basic vehicle, with even features like a radio, heater and clock costing extra.

Over the course of its early decades, the design of the Suburban underwent many changes such as sealed beam headlights (1940), wraparound windshield and small block V-8 engine (1955), independent front suspension and C/K designation for 2WD and 4WD (1960), and factory-installed air conditioning and rear-area heater (1965).

The second generation of Suburbans was launched in 1967 and featured both 2WD and 4WD versions, along with a signature single driver's side door and two passenger-side doors.  The third generation was released in 1973 and offered 4 doors for the first time, but still maintained the rounded body style that the vehicle had since its inception.

n the 1990's, the Suburban gained increased popularity as SUVs began to invade the auto market.  Families and utility users alike enjoyed the Suburban's roominess and power, and the Suburban gained additional popularity as a great vehicle for policemen, firemen, government officials, and celebrities.

In the last decade, continual changes and improvements have been made to the vehicle to keep up with styling trends, safety, fuel economy and comfort, culminating in 2010 with its 75th anniversary limited-edition model, the 75th Anniversary Diamond Edition Suburban.  It's no wonder the Suburban has remained a fixture in the industry for more than seven decades thanks to its core capabilities, dependability, and versatility across many generations.