One of the most notable additions to the current-generation Chevy Tahoe and Chevy Suburban is the 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax engine, as not many other vehicles outside of General Motors’ full-size SUV lineup offer a diesel engine in the United States. Now, it appears as though this powerplant choice currently is the most popular for Tahoe and Suburban buyers.
GM Authority has learned from sources close to the matter that the 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax engine is the fastest-turning engine now that it’s no longer under constraint. In other words, Chevy Tahoe and Chevy Suburban models equipped with the diesel engine are being claimed off dealership lots much faster than those equipped with the gasoline powerplants.
Although the specific reason behind this popularity contest is unknown, it’s likely that fuel economy ratings play a large part. In fact, the diesel engine is rated at 23 MPG overall in its most efficient setup, while the best either gasoline engine can muster is 17 MPG all-around.
| Model | Powertrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suburban 2WD | 3.0L I6 LM2 Diesel | 21 | 27 | 23 |
| Suburban 2WD | 5.3L V8 L84 Gas | 15 | 20 | 17 |
| Suburban 2WD | 6.2L V8 L87 Gas | 14 | 20 | 16 |
| Suburban 4WD | 3.0L I6 LM2 Diesel | 20 | 26 | 22 |
| Suburban 4WD | 5.3L V8 L84 Gas | 15 | 18 | 16 |
| Suburban 4WD | 6.2L V8 L87 Gas | 14 | 18 | 16 |
| Tahoe 2WD | 3.0L I6 LM2 Diesel | 21 | 28 | 24 |
| Tahoe 2WD | 5.3L V8 L84 Gas | 15 | 20 | 17 |
| Tahoe 2WD | 6.2L V8 L87 Gas | 14 | 20 | 16 |
| Tahoe 4WD | 3.0L I6 LM2 Diesel | 20 | 26 | 22 |
| Tahoe 4WD | 5.3L V8 L84 Gas | 15 | 20 | 17 |
| Tahoe 4WD | 6.2L V8 L87 Gas | 14 | 18 | 16 |
In regard to power output, the naturally aspirated 5.3L V8 L84 gasoline engine is rated at 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, the naturally aspirated 6.2L V8 L87 gasoline engine is rated at 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and the 3.0L I6 LM2 turbodiesel Duramax engine is rated at 277 horsepower at and 460 pound-feet of torque.
As a reminder, both the Chevy Tahoe and Chevy Suburban ride on the GM T1 platform, while production kicked off in November 2023 at the GM Arlington plant in Texas.
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Original 409 engine sourced from a boat swap!
Rough exterior hides a wealth of custom details.
But the model is still dead last in its competitive set.
Plus, a nationwide lease on extended-length full-size SUV.
With more than 2 million units sold in the U.S. since 1999.
Pulled down by the Lyriq's very poor performance.
View Comments
I plan to order the LZ0 updated version in a new Silverado.
I have had one 6.2 gas and three first generation 3.0 Diesels. Go Diesel. The second generation will make it a no brainer.
Why would GM. Produce 2 versions of the same engine?
There are leftovers and there are the new version..
GM must have a lot of the older 1st Ben engine parts still available.
The LZO is the 2nd gen updated engine with updates like steel pistons instead of aluminum.
Bigger higher flowing injectors. More HP more torque ect
I don’t understand why they discontinued the 2.8 diesel. I have a Colorado and that truck has saved me a ton in fuel cost. Even though diesel is more expensive it’s still cheaper to run the diesel.
Wake up GM we want more diesel’s
Totally agree! The Chevy Tahoe and Suburban with the Duramax Diesel engine are becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. The combination of power, efficiency, and reliability is a game-changer. Exciting times for SUV enthusiasts! 🚙🔥
I just wish they would increase its towing capabilities... That 3.0 would do well, bit they are missing a sector again where people want/need to tow at least 10k and have a family of 6 or more to ride in comfort.
You need to get the 6.6
The 3.0 is a tiny engine. But I believe the LZ0 second generation 3.0 has a higher tow rating
I can get 21 MPG with my 4WD Suburban with the 5.3L engine if I stay close to the speed limit on the highway.
I understand why it would be popular, I want one but can't afford a new vehicle and certainly couldn't afford a full size suv right now. But you didn't mention a take rate, just that it's the option dealers can't keep on the lot. I am curious on the approximate take rate of them. According to this article, it is up to whatever GM makes that way.
Update
The company I work for has purchased another 3.0 diesel. First is 2 years old now and working great.
I don’t think GM realizes that having up to 30 mph is very important and impressive to a lot of people and companies…..
Reliable diesels GM is what people want more of…