2019 Chevrolet Suburban RST Gets Muscle to Match Its Demeanor

Chevrolet is giving the 2019 Suburban RST a Performance Package to put some muscle behind the bad-boy looks of what has been largely a show-but-no-more-go appearance package.

The 2019 Suburban RST Performance Package will get GM's 420-horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 engine and its new 10-speed automatic transmission, a hefty upgrade from the standard 355-hp, 5.3-liter V-8 and six-speed automatic. The big V-8 puts out 460 pounds-feet of torque and the towing rating is expected to be 8,100 pounds. It's the first time the 6.2-liter has been offered for the Suburban. Until now you had to pay up for a GMC Yukon XL Denali or Cadillac Escalade ESV to get that engine in a GM long-wheelbase SUV.

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Chevy says the package also includes performance tuning for the RST's adaptive suspension system that increases body control and grip. It's the same Performance Package that already is offered for the RST model of the regular-wheelbase Tahoe, the Suburban's Chevrolet sibling. And Cars.com found the package adds a big boost in driving satisfaction, along with a big boost in price for the shorter-wheelbase Tahoe. Pricing for the 2019 Suburban version, due to go on sale this summer, has not been announced.

Like the Tahoe version, the Suburban RST also will offer added performance options that include a custom-tuned Boria dual side-exit exhaust system that Chevy says improves exhaust flow by 28 percent. And you can order a Brembo brake performance system to haul down the big truck with larger 16.1-inch front rotors and red six-piston aluminum calipers.

The RST sporty appearance package already available for the 2018 Suburban adds special 22-inch wheels and cuts the chrome with a body-color grille surround and door handles, and a gloss-black grille and mirror caps. It also has black Chevy bow ties, roof rails, window trim and badging. See a photo gallery of the trim on a Tahoe here.

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