23 MPG combined is a surprisingly respectable figure for the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel. Nobody buys a Suburban for stellar fuel efficiency. They buy it for its cavernous interior, its ability to haul eight passengers and their luggage, and its strong towing capability. The diesel accomplishes all of that while using fuel at a rate that would have been unthinkable for a vehicle of this size just a few years ago. This isn’t a Prius, but for what it is, the diesel Suburban offers a blend of capability and relative frugality.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD 3.0L diesel at 21 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway. That 6 MPG gap between city and highway driving reveals the engine’s strength: consistent, efficient cruising. The diesel excels at maintaining speed on the open road, requiring less effort and fuel to keep its momentum compared to a gasoline engine. Stop-and-go city driving takes a toll, as the Suburban’s considerable mass requires more energy to accelerate from a standstill. The 10-speed automatic transmission plays a crucial role here, keeping the engine in its optimal power band whether navigating urban streets or maintaining speed on the interstate. Its ability to quickly respond with a downshift when called upon helps maximize efficiency at any speed.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD 3.0L diesel is $2,400. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and the prevailing price of diesel in your area.

Someone who primarily uses their Suburban for long highway trips will likely spend less than someone who mostly drives in congested city traffic. Diesel prices can fluctuate significantly, so keeping an eye on fuel costs in your region is essential for budget-conscious owners.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA estimates provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. Factors like driving style, tire pressure, cargo weight, and weather conditions can all affect the numbers. Heavier loads and frequent towing will significantly decrease fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration and high speeds on the highway will also reduce efficiency. However, drivers who adopt a smooth, consistent driving style and diligently maintain their vehicle can often achieve figures closer to the EPA estimates or even slightly exceed them.

The Suburban’s onboard computer provides real-time and average MPG readouts. Monitoring these can help drivers adjust their habits to maximize fuel efficiency, providing instant feedback on the effects of their driving.

How it compares

The closest competitors to the diesel Suburban are its gasoline-powered siblings and other large SUVs. The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 5.3L V8, for example, is rated at just 17 MPG combined, a significant drop compared to the diesel. The 6.2L V8 version is even less efficient, achieving 16 MPG combined. Looking outside the Chevrolet family, the Ford Expedition Max with its 3.5L EcoBoost V6 gets an EPA-estimated 19 MPG combined. The Jeep Wagoneer and Grand Wagoneer, with their gasoline V8s, fare even worse. This makes the diesel Suburban a standout choice for buyers who need maximum space and towing capacity but are also concerned about fuel costs. The extended range afforded by the diesel’s efficiency also reduces the frequency of fuel stops, a welcome benefit on long road trips. Compare SUBURBAN MPG across all years to see historical data on this model.

Tips to Maximize Efficiency

Given the Suburban’s size and weight, smooth acceleration and gentle braking are key to maximizing fuel economy. Avoid sudden bursts of speed and anticipate traffic flow to minimize unnecessary stops. Letting the vehicle coast to a stop whenever possible reduces the energy needed to accelerate again.

Proper tire inflation plays a critical role in fuel efficiency. Check your tires regularly and maintain the recommended pressure listed on the doorjamb sticker. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. A simple tire pressure check can lead to noticeable improvements.

Minimize idling time. Modern engines consume fuel even when stationary. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. While the myth of excess wear from restarting has been debunked, the start/stop system will automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle is at a complete stop in certain conditions.

Reduce excess weight. The more weight the Suburban carries, the harder the engine has to work. Remove any unnecessary items from the cargo area to lighten the load. Even small weight reductions can add up over time and improve fuel economy, particularly in urban driving.

Consider using cruise control on the highway. Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, preventing unintentional acceleration and deceleration. This can lead to better fuel economy on long highway drives, where variations in speed are common. Be aware of all-speed traction control settings and adjust as necessary.

The diesel Suburban presents a unique aspect: the practicality and space of a large SUV with fuel economy approaching that of a much smaller vehicle. This makes it an appealing choice for families who need the Suburban’s capabilities but are also mindful of running costs. See all Chevrolet fuel economy data to compare this model with the full lineup.