17 MPG combined is the price for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe C1500 2WD 6.2L. It’s the trade-off for serious towing capacity, seating for up to nine, and the commanding presence that only a full-size, body-on-frame SUV can provide. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for saving fuel; it’s about capability first, and everything else second.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2018 Tahoe 6.2L at 14 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway. That difference between city and highway shows the engine’s design. This isn’t a high-revving, naturally aspirated engine that needs to be worked hard, even though it can be. It’s a torque monster at low RPMs, giving it plenty of power when you need it to get moving. The cylinder deactivation system (Active Fuel Management), which cuts fuel to four cylinders under light load, is more effective on the open road, contributing to that higher highway number. Expect to see that city MPG drop even lower when you’re consistently hauling a heavy load or frequently accelerating hard.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe C1500 2WD 6.2L at $3,400. 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. The calculation assumes national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that your actual fuel costs may be higher or lower depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do, and local fuel prices. If you live in an area with particularly high gas prices, or if you consistently tow with your Tahoe, expect that $3,400 figure to climb.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world fuel economy for the 2018 Tahoe 6.2L can vary significantly. Owners who want fuel efficiency and drive primarily on the highway may see numbers closer to the EPA’s 23 MPG estimate, or even slightly better. But drivers who frequently tow, live in congested urban areas, or accelerate quickly can expect to see their MPG dip well below the EPA’s 14 MPG city rating. Regular maintenance, such as properly inflated tires and timely oil changes, can help maintain optimal fuel economy.

How it compares

Compared to other full-size SUVs, the 2018 Tahoe 6.2L’s fuel economy is about what you’d expect. The Ford Expedition with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6, for example, gets 17 MPG combined, matching the Tahoe. The Nissan Armada, with its 5.6L V8, gets around 15 MPG combined. Even the smaller GMC Acadia, with its available 3.6L V6, only achieves around 21 MPG combined. For those needing the space and capability of a body-on-frame SUV, the 2018 Tahoe 6.2L is right in line with the competition. If fuel economy is a primary concern, buyers might consider a crossover SUV, but they will sacrifice towing capacity and cargo space. See TAHOE MPG across all years. You can also access all Chevrolet fuel economy data on our site.

Tips to maximize efficiency

The Tahoe’s 6.2L engine responds well to a light foot. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking, as these dramatically reduce fuel economy. Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a consistent speed and minimize unnecessary throttle adjustments.

Proper tire inflation is critical for maximizing MPG. Check your tires regularly and inflate them to the pressure recommended on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Keep your Tahoe properly maintained. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections ensure the engine is running efficiently. A well-maintained engine consumes less fuel and produces fewer emissions.

Consider your driving routes. Choose routes that avoid stop-and-go traffic and minimize idling whenever possible. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. The start/stop system on the 5.3 models helps combat this, but isn’t available on the 6.2L variant.

Reduce weight. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds extra weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items from your Tahoe that you don’t need on a regular basis, such as extra tools or sports equipment.