Drivetrain
The Suburban was offered with the choice of either a 5.7-litre Vortec V8, producing 190 kilowatts (250 hp) and 447 newton metres (330 ft·lbf) of torque, or a 6.5-litre turbodiesel V8 outputting 145 kilowatts (194 hp) and 583 newton metres (430 ft·lbf). The former choice was designated the "1500" name, while the turbodiesel saw the "2500" identify. The 5.7-litre petrol engine is LPG-compatible, and such systems can be retrofitted if desired. Regardless of the engine specified, the car was equipped with a four-speed automatic transmission. However, what differed was the type of transmission. Petrol motors were fitted with the GM 4L60-E transmission, with the GM 4L80-E reserved for the diesel. A dashboard switch allows the vehicle to power all the wheels simultaneously, or just the rear-wheels, and even allows for the low range gearing to instigate.
The vehicle's fuel efficiency has been rated at 19.7 L/100 km (11.9 mpg) for the diesel specification, with that figure rising to 21.8 L/100 km (10.8 mpg) for the petrol model. With the hefty fuel consumption comes a 159-litre fuel tank.
To combat the extra payload and towing capacity of the diesel, an improved braking package, as well as super heavy duty axles and suspension were fitted. Holden recommends a maximum 3,400 kilogram (7,496 lb) towing limit for the turbodiesels, with a reduced figure of 2,720 kilograms (5,997 lb) for the petrol models.
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