Owners of the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 5.3L V8 get 17 MPG combined. Nobody buys a Suburban expecting Prius-like efficiency. This is a truck-based, full-size SUV designed for hauling large families and towing heavy loads. Its fuel economy is a trade-off accepted by buyers who prioritize space, capability, and ruggedness over minimizing trips to the gas station.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates for the Suburban 2WD 5.3L are 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the stop-and-go nature of urban driving, where the Suburban’s weight and large engine work against it. The highway number is better, thanks to the smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission which allows the engine to cruise at lower RPMs. Even on the open road, the Suburban’s size and aerodynamic profile limit its fuel-sipping potential. Drivers should note that these figures are for optimal conditions. Aggressive driving, heavy cargo, or strong headwinds will all negatively impact fuel consumption, and opting for the 4WD version of the Suburban will further reduce these numbers.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for this Suburban configuration at $2,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with approximately 55% of those miles driven in the city and 45% on the highway, using national average fuel prices.

Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local gas prices. Someone who primarily uses their Suburban for short trips around town will likely exceed that $2,600 figure, while someone who mainly takes long highway journeys might see a slightly lower annual cost. Still, it provides a useful benchmark for budgeting fuel expenses for this vehicle.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized test, real-world mileage often differs. Suburban owners report figures slightly below the EPA estimates in mixed driving conditions. Factors like traffic congestion, driving style, and even tire pressure can significantly impact fuel economy. Expect to see closer to 13-15 MPG in city driving and potentially achieve the EPA’s 20 MPG on long highway trips if you drive conservatively. Owners who frequently tow or carry heavy loads should be prepared for even lower figures. The size and weight of this vehicle demand respect in terms of fuel consumption.

Explore the SUBURBAN MPG across all years instead of trying to hypermile this specific model.

How it compares

The 2022 Suburban 2WD 5.3L’s fuel economy is typical for its class. The Ford Expedition 2WD with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 offers similar numbers, around 17 MPG combined. The Nissan Armada, with its 5.6L V8, typically achieves slightly lower figures, generally around 16 MPG combined. Even the larger GM SUVs, like the Cadillac Escalade, post similar fuel economy numbers when equipped with comparable engines. This comparison shows that full-size SUVs, regardless of manufacturer, sacrifice fuel efficiency for their immense capabilities. Buyers choosing a vehicle like the Suburban are typically less concerned with maximizing MPG and more focused on its ability to transport a large family, their gear, and even tow a boat or trailer. Anyone prioritizing better fuel economy should look at smaller SUVs or minivans. Look at all Chevrolet fuel economy data before making your decision.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration and smooth braking are critical. Avoid aggressive driving habits like rapid acceleration from stoplights or hard braking, as these actions consume significantly more fuel. Use the Suburban’s cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and optimize fuel economy. This is especially effective on long, flat stretches of road.

Proper tire inflation is important for fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and maintain it at the recommended level, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb or in your owner’s manual. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel.

Minimize idling. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle. This is especially relevant in city traffic, where extended periods of idling are common.

Reduce unnecessary weight. The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to lighten the load. While a few pounds here and there might not seem significant, they add up over time and impact fuel economy.