“I like the value and size. Wanting an SUV and having seven people to drive around is hard.”
2018 Chevrolet Suburban: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026

The most important change for the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban is that daytime running lamps are standard on every trim. Otherwise, this is a light update with no redesign or powertrain changes, though the Commercial trim gets improved cabin tech.
About the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban
11th generation (2015-2020), fourth model year before the 2021 redesign.
Chevrolet positions the Suburban as the biggest, longest-running family SUV in its lineup: a full-size vehicle built for large families, heavy road-trip duty, and serious cargo room. Its core draw is simple: more passenger space and more storage than smaller three-row SUVs, plus V8 towing strength that crossovers cannot match. Buyers choose it when they need real size, a commanding driving position, and truck-like capability without stepping up to a luxury-brand SUV.
The 2018 Suburban remains an extra-long, V8-powered SUV aimed at large families, fleet users, and drivers who need substantial passenger and cargo room. The LT adds leather, heated front seats, and Bose audio, while the Premier brings navigation, ventilated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and an adaptive suspension for a smoother ride.
What changed, by category
2018 Chevrolet Suburban specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter | V8, EcoTec3, 5.3 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive |
| Drivetrain | 2WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg | 16 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Horsepower | 355 hp | 355 hp | 355 hp | 355 hp |
| Torque | 383 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft | 383 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 8300 lb | 8000 lb | 8000 lb | 8000 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 121.7 cu-ft | 121.7 cu-ft | 121.7 cu-ft | 121.7 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 34.5 in | 34.5 in | 34.5 in | 34.5 in |
| Seats | 9 | 8 | 7 | 9 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | ||||
| Alarm System | ||||
| Automatic High Beams | ||||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||||
| Hill Descent Control | ||||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||||
| Park Assist | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Close Liftgate/Trunk | ||||
| Power Folding Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Power Side Steps | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Tow Hooks | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Smartphone Interface | ||||
| Subwoofer | ||||
| Video Input | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Memory Steering Wheel | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tilt/Telescoping Steering Wheel | ||||
| Ventilated Front Seats | ||||
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban a redesign?
No. The 2018 Suburban is a light update within the generation introduced for 2015, with the same basic body, cabin layout, engine, and transmission as before.
What changed on the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban compared with the 2017 model?
Standard daytime running lamps are the main lineup-wide change for 2018. The work-focused Commercial trim also gains an 8-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch color driver display.
Did the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban get a new engine or transmission?
No. Every 2018 Suburban keeps the 5.3-liter V8 and six-speed automatic transmission, so this is not a mechanical update year.
Which 2018 Chevrolet Suburban trim received the biggest technology update?
The Commercial trim received the biggest technology update. It adds an 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a 4.2-inch color driver-information display.
What are the main differences among the 2018 Suburban trims?
The Commercial trim is work-focused, while LS covers the core family features. LT adds leather, heated front seats, and upgraded audio; Premier adds ventilated front seats, navigation, blind-spot monitoring, and an adaptive suspension.
2018 Chevrolet Suburban Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2018 Chevrolet Suburban.
“If you need one for carrying / hauling / pulling and drive long distances on interstate highways, you'll love this vehicle.”
“My Chevy Suburban has been great but has also had lots of problems with my check engine light coming on. In and out of the shop longer than I had the truck itself. Not a happy customer.”