18 MPG combined. It’s crucial to understand what that number means for the 2016 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L. It’s not efficient and it won’t win any green awards. Instead, it’s the price you pay for unparalleled space, towing capability, and old-school American practicality. This vehicle is typically bought by families with multiple children, by people who regularly tow boats or trailers, and those who need to move a lot of stuff comfortably. Fuel economy is a consideration, but it’s rarely the most important one.

City and highway performance

This Suburban earns its 16 MPG city and 23 MPG highway ratings. The 5.3L V8 has cylinder deactivation to improve efficiency at cruising speeds, but it has a lot of mass to move. In stop-and-go city driving, the Suburban’s weight is obvious. Expect frequent trips to the gas station if your daily commute is primarily in the city. On the open road, the 23 MPG is achievable, and even surpassable if you drive conservatively. The long wheelbase and comfortable seats make it a great road trip vehicle, if you budget for fuel stops.

The 6-speed automatic shifts smoothly, but downshifts can be a bit slow, which might cause you to push the accelerator harder, further hurting fuel economy.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2016 Chevrolet Suburban C1500 2WD 5.3L at $2,450. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs may vary depending on your driving habits, the type of driving you do (city versus highway), and local fuel prices. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavy foot, expect to exceed this estimate. Premium fuel is not required for optimal performance, so sticking with regular unleaded will keep costs down.

Real-world expectations

The EPA provides a standardized testing method, but real-world fuel economy often differs, sometimes significantly. Many Suburban owners report seeing figures close to the EPA estimates on the highway, but find it hard to achieve the 16 MPG city rating. Hauling cargo, towing trailers, aggressive driving, and even tire pressure can all impact fuel efficiency. Consistent maintenance, including regular oil changes and air filter replacements, helps keep the engine running efficiently. The age of the vehicle is another factor, as older engines can lose some efficiency over time.

How it compares

The 2016 Suburban’s fuel economy is typical for large SUVs. The 2016 Ford Expedition 2WD, with its 3.5L EcoBoost engine, has similar MPG ratings, around 16 MPG combined. A Toyota Sequoia from the same year achieves about 15 MPG combined. Even newer SUVs like the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 5.3L V8 aren’t drastically better, achieving around 17 MPG combined. Buyers often cross-shop these vehicles based on features and towing capacity, so they should also consider the fuel bills. A minivan like the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, which achieves upwards of 30 MPG combined but lacks the Suburban’s towing and cargo capabilities, is an option for those prioritizing less gas. For a broader view, check out all Chevrolet fuel economy data. To compare across all Suburban models, see SUBURBAN MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Go easy on the accelerator. The 5.3L V8 is responsive, but it’s also sensitive to aggressive driving. Accelerating gently and avoiding sudden stops will significantly improve your fuel economy. The Suburban is a large vehicle with considerable weight, so anticipate your stops and allow plenty of room to slow down gradually.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which in turn reduces fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure listed on the sticker in your driver’s side door jamb. This is a simple and often-overlooked way to save fuel.

Minimize idling. Idling consumes fuel without covering any distance. If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to be restarted without significantly impacting fuel consumption. Avoid remote starting the vehicle unnecessarily because it burns fuel without providing any benefit beyond pre-heating or cooling the cabin.

Lighten the load. Avoid carrying unnecessary cargo. The more weight the Suburban carries, the more fuel it consumes. Clean out any excess items from the cargo area and remove any roof racks or carriers when not in use. Reducing weight improves fuel efficiency.