No Reserve: 1989 GMC Suburban 4×4

No Reserve. When those two words form part of an owner’s sales pitch, they typically draw potential buyers like a moth to a flame. This is particularly true when the vehicle in question offers plenty of space and creature comforts, presents well, and features a healthy V8 under the hood. However, that isn’t the case with this 1989 GMC Suburban. The auction action has been surprisingly subdued, raising the possibility that this could become an affordable buy for the right person. It deserves a close look because there is plenty to like about this gentle giant.

This Suburban has something for everyone, and will probably appeal to people who like their classics unmolested. The seller admits it wears an older repaint in its original combination of Smoke Blue Metallic and Silver. It isn’t perfect, although the vehicle’s overall shine and lack of significant problems guarantee it will draw admiring looks. The panels have a couple of minor bumps and bruises, but like the paint, the lack of major problems means they don’t require attention. I would probably leave the vehicle untouched if it found its way into my garage, especially if I planned on taking it off-road. Those types of adventures often inflict their own wounds, which may prompt a cosmetic refresh in the future. The comprehensive image gallery confirms the Suburban is rust-free, while the trim and tinted glass are excellent.

Off-road adventures are typically entertaining, and this Suburban demonstrates that the new owner can undertake such activities in the lap of luxury. They will sink back into seats upholstered in luxurious Blue cloth and can fire up the air conditioning if things become too hot to handle. Speaking of seats, this GMC features the versatility of a third row, allowing it to swallow eight people. Throw in power windows, power locks, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a premium AM/FM radio/cassette player with a graphic equalizer, and the new owner will want for nothing. The interior presentation is above average for a vehicle of this type and age, with scuffs on some of the cargo area plastic the most obvious shortcoming. The remaining plastic is excellent, the upholstered surfaces are free from significant wear, and the carpet is surprisingly good. The seller admits a small chrome piece is missing from the driver’s door trim, and that the A/C requires a service. Otherwise, this interior appears to need nothing.

Powering this suburban is Chevrolet’s legendary 350ci V8 that sends 190hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. Unsurprisingly, this off-roader also scores power assistance for the steering and brakes while the automatic locking hubs will allow the winning bidder to delve into the wilderness without walking through the mud to engage the hubs. The performance will be pretty respectable for the era, which is supported by this YouTube video of the Suburban in action. The small-block sounds as sweet as a nut, the vehicle rolls down the road with no major squeaks or rattles, and the transmission shifts smoothly. Potential buyers can consider it a turnkey proposition that comes with excellent original documentation, including the Window Sticker and Dealer Invoice.

I expected the action to be intense when the seller listed this 1989 GMC Suburban 4×4 here on eBay in Spokane, Washington. The comprehensive image gallery and documentation tell the story of a classic that has been treated respectfully and should cost the new owner nothing beyond the initial purchase price. However, with only fourteen bids pushing the price to $8,600, it remains within affordable territory. Are you tempted to join the bidding party? I won’t blame you if you do.