16 MPG combined: accept it or move on. That’s the reality for the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 6.2L V8, and it’s a number that’s unlikely to sway its target demographic one bit. This isn’t a vehicle purchased for its frugality. It’s bought for its vast interior space, its towing capacity, and its sheer presence. You need to haul eight people, their luggage, and a boat? This Suburban doesn’t flinch. Fuel economy is simply the cost of doing business.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the Suburban 6.2L 2WD at 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. This split reflects the engine’s thirst for fuel during stop-and-go driving and its slightly better efficiency when cruising at steady speeds. The 10-speed automatic transmission does its best to keep the engine in its most efficient range, but moving over 5,500 pounds of SUV requires energy, and that energy comes from gasoline. The highway figure isn’t terrible given the Suburban’s size and aerodynamics (or lack thereof), but city driving will quickly erase any gains made on longer trips.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the annual fuel cost for driving the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD 6.2L V8 is $3,600. This figure is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Keep in mind that fuel prices fluctuate, and your personal driving habits may significantly impact your actual fuel costs. If you primarily drive in the city or have a heavier foot on the accelerator, expect to spend considerably more each year. Conversely, if you mostly drive highway miles and practice efficient driving techniques, you might save a few dollars but remember this figure is a baseline.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, most drivers will find their real-world fuel economy falls somewhere between the city and highway ratings, likely closer to the combined 16 MPG. Factors influencing your actual mileage include driving style, terrain, weather conditions, and cargo weight. Don’t expect to consistently achieve 20 MPG on the highway unless you’re meticulously monitoring your speed and avoiding sudden acceleration. Hauling passengers or cargo will further reduce fuel economy. Owners who frequently tow will see the biggest drop in MPG.

How it compares

Compared to other large SUVs, the 2022 Suburban 6.2L’s fuel economy is predictable. The Ford Expedition Max with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 achieves around 17 MPG combined in 2WD configuration, offering a slight improvement. A similarly equipped GMC Yukon XL, sharing the same platform and 6.2L engine, will deliver comparable fuel economy; differences are often negligible. Some owners may consider the Toyota Sequoia, but its fuel economy is generally worse, achieving just 15 MPG combined in its 2022 guise with the 5.7L V8. Of course, these comparisons are only relevant if you need the Suburban’s specific blend of size, towing capacity, and passenger space. If fuel economy is a primary concern, a smaller crossover or minivan would be a more sensible choice. Review all Chevrolet fuel economy data to see how the Suburban stacks up against other models in the lineup. You can also research SUBURBAN MPG across all years.

Tips to maximize efficiency

While the 2022 Suburban 6.2L prioritizes capability over fuel economy, there are still ways to minimize your fuel consumption. Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking. The 6.2L V8 delivers ample power, but using it frequently will significantly impact your MPG. A more gradual approach to both acceleration and deceleration will help you conserve fuel.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and consuming more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended levels, typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Reduce excess weight. Carrying unnecessary items in your Suburban adds to its overall weight and reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need, such as sports equipment or tools, to lighten the load.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Maintaining a consistent speed helps optimize fuel efficiency. Cruise control can prevent you from unintentionally speeding up and wasting fuel.

Minimize idling. Letting the engine idle for extended periods consumes fuel unnecessarily. If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Modern engines start quickly and efficiently, so restarting is a minor inconvenience compared to the fuel savings.