16 MPG combined. That’s not going to win any hypermiling contests, but for the buyer of a 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 6.2L V8, gas mileage is frankly pretty far down the list of priorities. This is a vehicle bought for its sheer size and its ability to swallow families, cargo, and trailers without breaking a sweat. It’s bought by those who need to transport a small hockey team and all their gear, or tow a boat to the lake every weekend. Efficiency is secondary to capability.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates suggest 14 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. The city figure reflects the reality of moving a three-ton SUV through stop-and-go traffic. The 6.2L V8, while powerful, needs a significant amount of fuel to overcome inertia.

On the open road, the 10-speed automatic transmission helps keep the engine in its sweet spot, allowing for better efficiency at cruising speeds. Still, even 20 MPG requires a light foot and a constant awareness of momentum. Keep in mind that those figures are for the 2WD model. Opt for 4WD and those numbers will dip further.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates an annual fuel cost of $3,600 for the 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD 6.2L 8-cyl. 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 also assumes national average fuel prices.

Your personal fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits and where you live. If you frequently tow or drive aggressively, expect to spend considerably more. Conversely, if you primarily use the Suburban for longer highway trips and practice efficient driving techniques, you might see slightly lower costs.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a baseline, real-world MPG can vary considerably. Many Suburban owners report city mileage hovering around 12-13 MPG, especially with frequent short trips and idling. Highway figures can improve to the stated 20 MPG, but aerodynamic drag at higher speeds diminishes returns.

Towing, naturally, drastically reduces fuel economy; single-digit MPG is entirely possible when hauling a heavy load. The 6.2L V8 is a powerful engine, but it needs to be fed, so don’t expect miracles.

How it compares

Compared to its competitors, the Suburban with the 6.2L V8 isn’t winning any awards for frugality. A Ford Expedition Max with the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 manages 17 MPG combined, a slight edge. The Nissan Armada, with its 5.6L V8 is in the same ballpark as the Suburban – expect around 15 MPG combined. Even the GMC Yukon XL Denali, which shares a platform with the Suburban, offers similar fuel economy as all Chevrolet fuel economy data is closely related. However, owners often find this difference negligible in exchange for the Suburban’s overall package of space, towing capacity, and, in some cases, brand loyalty.

For those seeking better fuel economy in a full-size SUV, the diesel versions of the Suburban and Yukon XL offer an alternative, achieving closer to 24 MPG combined, but lack the outright power of the 6.2L V8.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Smooth acceleration is key. The 6.2L V8 delivers tremendous power, and it’s tempting to exploit it. However, gentler acceleration minimizes fuel consumption. Anticipate traffic flow and avoid sudden bursts of speed, allowing the vehicle’s momentum to work for you.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Minimize idling. Idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles, including the Suburban, are designed to restart quickly, so there’s no need to keep the engine running unnecessarily.

Reduce aerodynamic drag. Remove roof racks or cargo carriers when not in use. These accessories increase wind resistance, which can significantly impact fuel economy, especially at highway speeds. Even keeping the windows up at higher speeds can make a small difference.

Consider a programmer for efficiency tunes. Performance tuners are available for the 6.2L V8 that can prioritize fuel savings by changing shift points and air/fuel ratios. Be sure to choose one that does not void your warranty.

The 2023 Chevrolet Suburban 2WD with the 6.2L V8 isn’t about maximizing fuel economy; it’s about getting the job done, whatever that job may be. For those who need its capabilities, SUBURBAN MPG across all years remains a fair trade-off.