18 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the price for those who need what the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl offers: cavernous space, truck-like towing capability, and a commanding presence. This isn’t a vehicle bought for its efficiency; it’s a vehicle bought for its utility, with fuel economy a secondary, albeit important, consideration. Those who prioritize MPG above all else simply aren’t shopping in this segment. The Suburban buyer is someone who hauls kids, cargo, and often a trailer, and needs the reliable nature of a body-on-frame SUV to do it all.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L are 15 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go driving and idling that plagues large SUVs, especially those with a displacement of 5.3-liters and a lack of hybrid assistance. The highway number is more respectable, achievable thanks to the relatively unstressed nature of the engine at cruising speeds and the automatic transmission’s ability to lock up the torque converter. However, even on the highway, expect to see that number dip significantly when towing or carrying a heavy load.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L 8-cyl at $2,450. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using the national average fuel price for regular unleaded gasoline. It’s important to remember that this is only an estimate. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and the price of gasoline in your area. For many Suburban owners, who may use their vehicle for frequent towing or live in areas with higher fuel costs, this number could easily be higher.

Real-world expectations

While the official EPA numbers provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the Suburban can vary considerably. Expect to see numbers slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving, especially if your daily commute involves a lot of stop-and-go traffic. Aggressive driving, frequent short trips, and cold weather can further decrease fuel economy. Conversely, consistent highway driving at moderate speeds can potentially yield numbers meeting or even slightly exceeding the EPA’s 22 MPG estimate.

How it compares

Compared to its direct competitors, the 2020 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L’s fuel economy is in line with expectations. The Ford Expedition Max, similarly equipped with a V8 engine, achieves similar MPG numbers. The Nissan Armada doesn’t fare much better. For those truly concerned with fuel economy within this class, exploring the Chevrolet SUBURBAN MPG across all years and trims might reveal slight variations, but significant gains are unlikely without switching to a smaller vehicle. This segment prioritizes capability over efficiency, and buyers accept this trade-off. Consider also reviewing all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare other models.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are key to maximizing fuel economy in any vehicle, and the Suburban is no exception. Avoid aggressive starts and stops, and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary braking. The Suburban’s weight means that every hard acceleration consumes a noticeable amount of fuel.

Proper tire inflation plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the driver’s side doorjamb. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which reduces fuel economy. Keeping tires inflated also helps with vehicle safety especially with loads.

Minimize idling. Idling for extended periods consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. This is especially important in city driving where idling is common.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying extra weight increases the amount of energy required to move the vehicle. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, such as tools or equipment that aren’t needed on a regular basis. This includes items in the cargo area as well as anything in your center console.