24 MPG combined isn’t amazing, but for the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD with the 3.0L Duramax diesel, it’s genuinely impressive. This isn’t a compact crossover, it’s a full-size, body-on-frame SUV engineered to haul families, tow boats, and tackle adventures. Buyers drawn to this particular Tahoe configuration prioritize space, capability, and efficiency over sportiness or a small size. They accept some limitations with a large SUV, and the Duramax engine helps lessen those limitations.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The highway number is where the Duramax engine shines. Diesel engines, with their high torque output and lower RPM cruising, are more efficient on long road trips. This makes the 2WD Duramax Tahoe a good choice for families who often take cross-country trips. The 10-speed automatic transmission helps, finding the best gear to keep the engine operating efficiently.

Annual fuel cost

According to the EPA, the estimated annual fuel cost for the 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe 2WD 3.0L diesel is $2,300. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. This will vary depending on your driving, local fuel costs, and how aggressively you drive. But it’s a useful baseline for comparing the Tahoe to other vehicles and estimating your fuel expenses. Even small fuel price differences can impact your costs over a year.

Real-world expectations

EPA estimates are a good starting point, but actual fuel economy can vary. Driving style, terrain, and cargo weight impact your MPG. Aggressive acceleration and hard braking will lower fuel economy. Towing or carrying heavy loads will reduce the Duramax engine’s efficiency benefits. However, with smooth driving and consistent speeds, achieving or beating the EPA’s highway estimate is possible in the 2WD diesel Tahoe.

How it compares

Other full-size SUVs struggle to match the Tahoe’s diesel fuel efficiency. The Ford Expedition, even with its EcoBoost engine, delivers around 17 MPG combined, and closer to 23 MPG on the highway. The Toyota Sequoia, redesigned for 2023 with a hybrid powertrain, still only manages around 22 MPG combined. The Tahoe’s 5.3L V8 engine comes in at around 17 MPG combined; the Duramax offers a major advantage. Considering all Chevrolet fuel economy data, the Tahoe 2WD diesel stands out. Opting for the diesel powertrain doesn’t mean sacrificing capability; it enhances it with better fuel economy. This is useful for buyers who frequently tow or haul heavy loads and appreciate the diesel’s added range before refueling.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Avoid aggressive acceleration. The Duramax diesel produces ample low-end torque, so you don’t need to push the accelerator to get up to speed. Gentle acceleration will save fuel and keep the engine efficient.

Maintain a steady speed on the highway, using cruise control when possible. Changing speed constantly hurts fuel economy, so a consistent pace maximizes efficiency on long drives.

Ensure your tires are properly inflated. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which increases fuel consumption. Check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended level, usually on a sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Minimize idling. Modern engines don’t need long warm-up periods. If you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Idling wastes fuel, especially in a diesel engine.

Consider the load you’re carrying. Hauling extra weight reduces fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle to lighten the load and improve efficiency. Remember that the TAHOE MPG across all years has generally been lower than this model, making it important to use these tips for the best possible result.