General Motors will soon launch its completely-overhauled portfolio of full-size SUVs across North America and beyond. That portfolio includes the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe and Chevrolet Suburban, 2021 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, plus the 2021 Cadillac Escalade and 2021 Escalade ESV.
GM recently revealed the 2021 Chevrolet Suburban towing capacities, allowing us to compile a detailed account of the standard and maximum ratings for all Suburban powertrain choices, and also to compare them to those of the last-generation model. For those wondering what the difference is between the two, the maximum rating applies when buyers check the Max Trailering Package (RPO code HNT).
| Trim Level: | LS | LT | RST | Z71 | Premier | High Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Trailering Package (NHT): | A1 | A2 | A1 | A3 | A4 | A5 |
| Advanced Trailering Package (ZL6): | A6 | A6 | A6 | A6 | A7 | A7 |
- Max Trailering Package (NHT) includes:
- Advanced Trailering Package (ZL6)
- Extra capacity cooling system (V03)
Availability notes:
1. Also includes (NQH) 2-speed active transfer case on 4WD models. Deletes (V03) extra capacity cooling system when (LM2) Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I6 engine is ordered.
2. Also includes (NQH) 2-speed active transfer case on 4WD models. Included with (PCI) LT Signature Package. Deletes (V03) extra capacity cooling system when (LM2) Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I6 engine is ordered.
3. Included with (RFN) Z71 Signature Package.
4. Included with (PCU) Premium Package. Deletes (V03) extra capacity cooling system when (LM2) Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I6 engine is ordered.
5. Included with (PCU) Premium Package, (PDM) High Country Deluxe and (PDT) Technology Package. Deletes (V03) extra capacity cooling system when (LM2) Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I6 engine is ordered.
Advanced Trailering Package (ZL6) includes:
- Hitch Guidance with Hitch View (PZ8)
- Trailer brake controller (JL1)
- Advanced Trailering System (U1D)
Availability notes:
6. Included and only available with (NHT) Max Trailering Package.
7. Included and only available with (NHT) Max Trailering Package. Also includes (UKV) Trailer Side Blind Zone Alert
The new-generation Chevrolet Suburban is built on the GM T1 platform and is equipped as standard with the L84 5.3L V8 that produces 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque. The optional L87 6.2L V8 generates 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet. Also available later in the model year will be the Duramax turbo-diesel LM2 3.0L I6, good for 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All three engines are connected to the GM 10-speed automatic transmission, in either 2WD or 4WD configuration.
| 2021 Suburban L84 5.3L V8 | 2015-2020 Suburban L83 5.3L V8 | Difference | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveline | Standard Tow Rating | Axle | Standard Tow Rating | Axle | 2021 vs. 2015-2020 |
| 2WD | 7900 | 3.23 | 6300 | 3.08 | +1600 |
| 4WD | 7700 | 3.23 | 6000 | 3.08 | +1700 |
| 2021 Suburban L84 5.3L V8 | 2015-2020 Suburban L83 5.3L V8 | Difference | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveline | Max Tow Rating | Axle | Max Tow Rating | Axle | 2021 vs. 2015-2020 |
| 2WD | 8300 | 3.23 | 8300 | 3.42 | 0 |
| 4WD | 8100 | 3.23 | 8000 | 3.42 | +100 |
Standard 2021 Chevrolet Suburban towing ratings have increased by a significant 1,600 to 1,700 pounds, which means many buyers won’t need to opt for the Max Trailering Package anymore. In all cases with the 5.3L V8, the package only adds 400 pounds of extra trailering capacity.
| 2021 Suburban L87 6.2L V8 | 2015-2020 Suburban L86 6.2L V8 | Difference | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveline | Standard Tow Rating | Axle | Standard Tow Rating | Axle | 2021 vs. 2015-2020 |
| 2WD | 7800 | 3.23 | N/A | 3.23 | N/A |
| 4WD | 7500 | 3.23 | N/A | 3.23 | N/A |
| 2021 Suburban L87 6.2L V8 | 2015-2020 Suburban L86 6.2L V8 | Difference | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driveline | Max Tow Rating | Axle | Max Tow Rating | Axle | 2021 vs. 2015-2020 |
| 2WD | 8200 | 3.23 | 8100 | 3.23 | +100 |
| 4WD | 7900 | 3.23 | 7900 | 3.23 | 0 |
Overall, the maximum 2021 Chevrolet Suburban towing capacity remains unchanged at 8,300 pounds when compared to the last-generation model. It still trails its cross-town rival, the Ford Expedition, which boasts a maximum trailering rating of 9,300 pounds. It also ranks below the Nissan Armada (8,500 pounds), but above the Toyota Sequoia (7,400 pounds).
We should note that towing capacities for the turbo-diesel 3.0L engine are not yet available. However, we did report on the 2021 Cadillac Escalade’s tow ratings, which include the oil-burning inline-six. Those figures should provide an indication of what to expect from the Suburban diesel’s towing ratings.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban production will begin at the GM Arlington plant in Texas in late June, and the very first units will begin shipping to dealers shortly thereafter. Starting prices will range from $52,995 to $76,595 before options. GM’s full-size SUVs boast slightly higher fuel economy in city driving, but are a tad less efficient on the highway.
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Comments
Those are poor values for what the vehicle is. Forget about the relevant competition – a FULL size, 8-9 passenger, 4WD SUV with the “Max Trailering” package and a 420 hp / 460 ft lbs engine and a 10 speed automatic should have a more substantial tow rating. Just consider that 7,900# is the same as the model with the small engine and withOUT the Max Trailering package. There should absolutely be a 10k package option.
I was not aware the 2015-2020 model year Suburban’s were available with a 3:23 gear ratio. I thought the non NHT vehicles had a 3:08 gear ratio and the NHT vehicles had the 3:42 gear ratio.
Only the late 6.2/10 speed vehicles had the 3.23. Very few. You are correct re the 3.08/3.42 split, except that Z71’s had 3.42’s, also.
I have a 2015 LTZ 4WD w/out the max trailering package and my tow rating is only 6,000 lbs. so, I appreciate that the new model will do at least 7900 lbs. But sure would be nice to have a dually 3500!
You’re absolutely right. The article has been updated.
Bring back the 3/4 ton suburban so I can buy one
I can’t believe that I still can’t trailer that 11k lb arctic fox I want so badly. I DON’T WANT A PICKUP! I want a vehicle that is over-designed like my 7.4L 2500 25 year old suburban. I still have confidence in it getting me where I need to go. I just need more towing capacity. A gas engine is a must for me, so please bring back the reliable old big block engine. No aluminum!
I currently have the 2018 Silverado LTZ 1500 with the max tow package and the 6.2 liter engine. My capacity blows away the stock 5.3 liter at 12500 lbs. vs 9100 lbs. I don’t understand how they could under-design the suspension on the 6.2 liter on the Suburban to under-perform the 5.3 L. Especially with 420 hp and 460 ft lb of torque.
I also would really like to see a three-quarter ton suburban again. I loved our previous suburban when we only had a 5000 pound camper to tow. Now I have an 8000 pound boat and a 2000 pound trailer so I really need and want the suburban with an 11,000 pound capacity and I really don’t want a truck.
Put the Duramax in it!!