The cherry red 2021 Chevrolet Suburban sits in my driveway, packing an all-new, 3.0-liter V-8 turbo diesel engine, a clever, strategic addition to a long-established nameplate.

I easily climb in, the electronic step rails handy, admiring the quality interior materials. The cabin is enormous but I find a comfortable driving position. I eye the levered vertical gear shifter; what fresh hell is this? I finger the squares and levers. Some flick out, others push in. It’s an irritant but definitely not a deal breaker.

The engine roars to life via the start button. It’s a diesel so I’m especially attuned to noise, vibration and harshness. The Chevy engineers were too, because this beast is more kitten than lion, with a throaty, contented purr versus an old-style, disruptive roar.

Pulling onto my rural street, the Suburban takes up a lot of room, and yet drives shockingly smaller than I expected. It handles well, and the tall ride height provides an impressive view of the lesser vehicles dotting roadways.

With nearly 8,000 pound towing capacity, a 700-plus driving range, ample room for 7 adults and treasures, the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban diesel is ideal for busy families with far-flung social circles and activities.