16 MPG combined isn’t going to win any awards, but it’s the price you pay for the strong capabilities of the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD with the 5.3L V8. We’re talking about moving a massive amount of people and cargo, towing substantial loads, and doing it all with the commanding presence that only a full-size SUV can deliver. The Suburban isn’t for those overly concerned with fuel costs; it’s for families with multiple children, businesses that need to shuttle clients, and adventurers hauling trailers to remote campsites.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates that the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD 5.3L V8 achieves 15 MPG in the city and 19 MPG on the highway. These figures reflect the realities of physics: moving nearly three tons of truck through stop-and-go traffic demands fuel, and even on the open road, overcoming aerodynamic drag at highway speeds requires significant power. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to optimize efficiency, but the V8’s primary mission is to deliver smooth, reliable power at any speed, with fuel economy a secondary consideration. It has the grunt to get up to speed without straining, and can be a more pleasurable experience to drive compared to some of its lesser-engined competitors.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates that the annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 4WD 5.3L 8-cyl is $2,750. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices.

Keep in mind that this is only an estimate, and your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of roads you drive on most frequently, and the price of gasoline in your area. But given the huge amount of space available, many owners happily pay this price.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA provides a standardized benchmark, remember that real-world fuel economy can fluctuate considerably. Aggressive driving and frequent short trips will negatively impact fuel consumption.

Carrying heavy loads and towing will also negatively impact fuel consumption. Conversely, careful driving habits, sticking to highway speeds, and keeping the vehicle properly maintained (tire pressures, oil changes, etc.) can help you get closer to the EPA estimates. Headwinds, hills, and even the kind of tires you have can all impact your fuel bill over the course of a year.

How it compares

The Suburban’s fuel economy needs to be seen in the context of its competitors. The Ford Expedition 4×4 runs in a similar ballpark at a combined 17 MPG. A similarly equipped 2023 GMC Yukon XL 4WD, sharing the Suburban’s powertrain, offers virtually identical fuel economy.

The Jeep Wagoneer Series III 4×4 comes in slightly worse at 15 MPG combined. These differences are often negligible in the grand scheme of ownership, but they are worth considering. Those who prioritize fuel efficiency above all else might want to consider larger crossovers like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid (35 MPG combined), even though they give up a considerable amount of space and towing capacity.

You can study all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see how other vehicles compare, or look at specific SUBURBAN MPG across all years to understand historical trends.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the Suburban’s cruise control system whenever possible, especially on long highway drives. Maintaining a consistent speed minimizes unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, leading to improved fuel efficiency. The 10-speed automatic transmission is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range, but you can help by avoiding sudden bursts of speed.

Minimize idling time. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary, so avoid extended idling, especially in cold weather. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. This is especially relevant in the Suburban, with its large-displacement V8.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressures regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, which can be found on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb, or in the owner’s manual. Don’t forget that tire pressures fluctuate with temperature changes.

Reduce unnecessary weight. Carrying heavy cargo increases fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary items from the vehicle, such as sports equipment, tools, or other items that you don’t need on a regular basis. Every extra pound adds up over time, especially in a vehicle as large as the Suburban. If you don’t absolutely need that third row of seating, folding it down, or even removing it, might help you save a little more gas.