The latest 2021 Chevy Suburban introduces a remarkable twelfth generation for the iconic SUV, marking the longest-running automotive nameplate in history with 85 years of continuous production. Among the 2021 Suburban’s many features and upgrades is the option for a new diesel powerplant, and now, the EPA has released the official fuel economy estimates for diesel-powered 2021 Chevy Suburban models.
Looking over the latest EPA numbers, we find that 2021 Chevy Suburban models equipped with a diesel powerplant and 2WD post 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined. The EPA also lists estimated annual fuel costs at $1,550.
| Engine | 5.3L V8 L84 | 6.2L V8 L87 | 3.0L I6 LM2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Regular | Premium | Diesel |
| City | 16 | 15 | 21 |
| Highway | 20 | 20 | 27 |
| Combined | 18 | 17 | 23 |
| Estimated Annuel Fuel Cost | $1,750 | $2,450 | $1,650 |
Unsurprisingly, diesel-powered 2021 Chevy Suburban models provide greater fuel efficiency than gasoline-powered 2021 Chevy Suburban models. Per the latest EPA estimates, 2021 Suburban models equipped with the naturally aspirated L84 5.3L V8 gas engine and 2WD post 16 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the highway, and 18 mpg combined, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $1,750. Meanwhile, 2021 Suburban models equipped with the naturally aspirated L87 6.2L V8 and 2WD post 15 mpg in the city, 20 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg combined, with an estimated annual fuel cost of $2,450.
To note, the diesel engine in question here is the Duramax turbo-diesel LM2 3.0L I-6, which produces 277 horsepower at 3,750 rpm and 460 pound-feet of torque at 1,500 rpm. All three engines, including the LM2 diesel and the two gas-powered engines mentioned above, mate to GM’s Hydra-Matic 10L80 10-speed automatic transmission.
As these latest EPA figures demonstrate, the diesel-powered LM2 3.0L I6 engine is the go-to choice for those 2021 Chevy Suburban buyers concerned about overall fuel economy. Indeed, the diesel engine is the economical choice for the rest of GM’s full-size SUV lineup as well, as we’ve covered previously for the 2021 GMC Yukon and the 2021 Chevy Tahoe as well.
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Comments
While the diesel fuel economy figures are very impressive for a vehicle of this type, I wouldn’t be surprised to see the diesel powered Suburban to achieve better real world efficiency figures than what the EPA says on paper. Same goes for its V8 options, though they won’t be nearly as efficient as the diesel power plant.
Yep. Their EPA/CAFE “footprint” is what produces the lower ratings vs. Silverado/Sierra. Plus they are 700-1000lbs heavier than the Silverado/Sierra with the 3.0 diesel just from the weight/size of the SUVs. Real world they will produce, my guestimate, within 1 mpg of the pickup 3.0 diesel.
Wait a minute, 18 mpg combined w/estimated annual fuel cost of $1,750 vs. 17 mpg combined w/estimated annual fuel cost of $2,450. That math does not work out: 5% diff in mileage = 28% difference in cost? Does the 6.2 have to run premium while the 5.3 uses regular?
And to go on, diesel 23 mpg combined w/estimated annual fuel costs of $1,550. Okay now a 35% boost in fuel economy (vs 5.3L) = 5% savings. Where I live diesel is only slightly higher than unleaded, are these numbers based on fuel prices in Cali or what? Y’all need to explain the logic behind all this fuzzy math [pun intended].
Any chance of a 3/4ton Surburban or Yukon in the future for the general public. More payload would be nice for towing travel trailers
I myself would like to see a 3/4 ton suburban someday. I currently own a excursion 7.3 liter hate to someday part with it. But considering an update if a 3/4 suburban should ever come back.
These vehicles are already built on a 3/4 chassis
Every state is different with the cost of fuel – so a comparison is hard to make. There are also maintenance costs to account for. Diesel vs gas engines are different in oil change routines and very cold weather. Just say’n And yes, I’d like to see a 3/4 ton Suburban with a max towing gear package make a come back too!! Does the 2021 diesel get 3.42 or 3.73 gears??
I once heard that the epa does all its testing in lab under controlled conditions – it may be close to real world fuel economy at the least ! There are owners getting over 30 mpg with the inline 6 diesel !
Diesel fuel costs 20 – 30 cents more, plus cost of DEF would make it a wash.
Ok GM, now I want to see this engine in a large sedan, like a CT6, I bet on the EPA cycle it would get 35 mpg hey and real world, more like 40. And with just a few hypermiling techniques (low-moderate climate control, sticking to the speed limits and thinking ahead) could probably get close to 50. I know GM won’t do it, but I would still love to see it.
When will it start arriving at dealerships???