16 MPG combined comes with the territory. If you’re cross-shopping the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD with the Chevrolet Suburban and the 5.3L V8, you’re buying space, towing capacity, and the kind of reliable capability only a body-on-frame SUV can deliver. Fuel efficiency is secondary. You want the ability to haul eight passengers and their gear comfortably, tow up to 7,900 pounds, and handle snowstorms. This generation Suburban offers all of that in a surprisingly refined package.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 14 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway for this specific Suburban configuration. The large gap between city and highway figures reveals the impact of stop-and-go traffic on a vehicle of this size. The 5.3L V8, while offering respectable power, needs to work hard to get the Suburban moving from a standstill. On the open road, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its most efficient range, contributing to that 19 MPG highway rating. But anticipate those numbers dropping if you regularly deal with rush-hour congestion or drive at higher speeds.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA calculates the annual fuel cost for the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl at $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year, with 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 and local fuel prices, but this $2,750 figure provides a useful benchmark for comparing the Suburban’s cost of ownership to other vehicles in its class. Premium fuel is not required, helping to keep running costs manageable.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful starting point, real-world fuel economy often changes. Suburban owners report a wide range of MPG figures, influenced by factors like driving style, terrain, and load. Expect to see numbers closer to the EPA estimates during steady highway cruising. However, frequent towing, aggressive acceleration, and primarily city driving will significantly lower your MPG. The Suburban’s size and weight contribute to its fuel consumption, especially when accelerating or climbing hills. Maintaining proper tire inflation and keeping up with scheduled maintenance can help optimize fuel efficiency.

How it compares

In the full-size SUV segment, the 2022 Suburban’s fuel economy is comparable to its direct competitors. The Ford Expedition 4×4 with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 is rated at 16 MPG combined, nearly identical to the Suburban. The Toyota Sequoia, with its older 5.7L V8, lags behind at 14 MPG combined. Even a slightly smaller SUV like the GMC Yukon XL 4WD with the same 5.3L V8 achieves similar fuel economy. Some buyers might consider larger crossover SUVs like the Chevrolet Traverse (20 MPG combined), but they sacrifice the towing capacity and off-road capability that define the Suburban’s appeal. These MPG differences matter to buyers comparing the SUBURBAN MPG across all years to alternatives.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Gentle acceleration is key. The Suburban’s V8 engine is responsive, but avoid unnecessary bursts of speed. Gradually building momentum saves fuel compared to flooring the accelerator. Anticipate traffic flow and maintain a steady speed whenever possible.

Use cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes fuel consumption. Remember that every mile per hour over 60 MPH significantly reduces fuel economy. Set your speed strategically and let cruise control do the work.

Properly inflate your tires. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level, which is usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb. This is good advice for all Chevrolet fuel economy data.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Hauling extra cargo impacts fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, especially heavy objects. A lighter vehicle requires less energy to move, resulting in better MPG.

Consider using a fuel additive. While not a guaranteed fix, certain fuel additives can help clean fuel injectors and improve combustion efficiency. Research reputable brands and follow the instructions carefully. A clean engine runs more efficiently, potentially boosting fuel economy.