For 2005 Chevrolet constructs truck-based sport-utility vehicles in four size categories - compact, mid-size, full-size, even super-size, thanks to Blazer, TrailBlazer, Tahoe and Suburban. Yet there's more this year as Chevy's wagons extend to a new compact-class model called Equinox, which resembles a sleek SUV but functions like a family-friendly minivan and drives like an easy-riding sedan.

The largest SUV on Chevy's lot is the super-size Suburban that stretches 18 feet long and spreads more than six feet wide across the beam. Its enormous cabin has seats for as many as nine passengers and there are high-tech handling devices aboard including optional Quadrasteer four-wheel steering (4WS) that turns all four wheels so Suburban can maneuver at slow speed with amazingly tight turns to match the nimble movements of a small car.

The series includes 1500 (half-ton) and 2500 (three-quarter-ton) versions with Vortec V8 engines and automatic transmissions for all. The Suburban 1500 totes a 5.3-liter V8 rated this year at 295 hp. The 2500 stocks Chevy's 6.0-liter V8 that runs to 325 hp, with the heavy-duty Vortec 8.1-liter V8 also available for 320 hp. Both 1500 and 2500 Suburbans host RWD and 4WD editions, but the latter has a dash-mounted switch to jockey between full-time AWD traction, rear-wheel or four-wheel high and low settings. GM's OnStar telecommunications system is now standard in every group for Suburban in 2005, while a new rear lift gate with flip-up glass window fits on all.

The full-size SUV one step down in size from Suburban has four doors for passengers and up to three tiers of seats on a 1500 (half-ton) wagon with two trims and RWD or AWD traction. Tahoe contains heavy-duty mechanical hardware backed by forceful power and sophisticated controls for suspension, traction and brakes plus complex safety systems - all operating to take the work out of driving and boost a driver's confidence. Two Vortec V8 engines power the Tahoe. A base 4.8-liter plant puts out 285 hp, while the Tahoe in LS or LT trim has a 5.3-liter V8 for 295 hp. There are two rows of seats in the cabin in standard conformation plus an optional third-row bench split 50-50. Adding the third tier raises the passenger count to seven.

Tahoe's Z71 off-road chassis package installs Bilstein gas-charged shocks, tuned springs, jounce bumpers and stabilizer bars plus 16-inch all-season tires. Optional safety gear reaches to StabiliTrak vehicle skid controls and power adjustable brake and accelerator pedals. For entertainment the Tahoe offers choices like a DVD-based video entertainment kit and XM satellite radio service. There are new paint colors for 2005 models, such as Sandstone Metallic and Bermuda Blue Metallic. (CONTINUED...)