How far can a Suburban go on a full tank?
In short, a Chevrolet Suburban can typically travel roughly 500 to 750 miles on a full tank, depending on the engine choice and driving conditions. This article explains how the numbers break down and what affects real-world range.
The Suburban’s range hinges on its fuel tank size, powertrain, and how you drive. With a large 31-gallon tank and several powertrain options, you’ll see different miles-per-gallon (mpg) figures that translate into varying cruising distances. This piece outlines the main configurations and practical expectations for range.
Tank size and powertrain options
Understanding the tank size and the available engines helps establish a baseline for range. The Suburban generally uses a 31-gallon fuel tank, and its efficiency varies by engine and configuration.
- Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel I-6: Typically the most efficient option, delivering mid-20s mpg combined. With a 31-gallon tank, expect roughly 700–780 miles per tank depending on driving conditions.
- 5.3L V8 Gasoline: A common gasoline choice with mpg in the high-teens to around 20 mpg combined. Range from about 520–620 miles on a full tank, depending on drivetrain and terrain.
- 6.2L V8 Gasoline: A larger gasoline engine with mpg in the mid-teens to the high-teens combined. Real-world range generally around 480–560 miles per tank.
Real-world results can vary based on payload, towing, aerodynamics, terrain, and climate control usage. The figures above assume typical highway and city mix and moderate load.
Real-world range and driving conditions
While EPA-style numbers provide a baseline, actual range depends on how you drive. City driving with frequent stops can reduce mpg, while steady highway cruising tends to maximize range. Payload (passengers and cargo), towing, and driving in hilly or hot/cold weather can also impact fuel economy and total miles per tank.
- City vs. highway mix: Stop-and-go city driving lowers mpg more than sustained highway speeds.
- Payload and towing: Extra weight reduces efficiency, especially with the 6.2L V8 and when towing.
- Terrain and climate: Elevation, temperature, and air conditioning use can alter mpg.
- Maintenance and tires: Proper tire pressure and up-to-date maintenance help preserve efficiency.
To maximize range, drivers often favor highway cruising, balanced speed, and efficient use of the accelerator and cruise control, along with keeping payload light when range is a priority.
Maximizing range by configuration
Again, the most efficient Suburban setup is typically the Duramax diesel, followed by the 5.3L gasoline option, with the 6.2L gasoline engine trailing in efficiency. Here’s how that translates into practical expectations.
- Duramax 3.0L Turbo-Diesel: Best range potential, roughly 700–780 miles per tank under typical mixed driving.
- 5.3L V8 Gasoline: Solid balance of power and efficiency, roughly 520–620 miles per tank depending on conditions.
- 6.2L V8 Gasoline: Strong performance but lower range, roughly 480–560 miles per tank in everyday use.
Note that trims, drivetrain (2WD vs. 4WD), and seasonal conditions can push these numbers up or down by a noticeable margin.
What to expect in current and upcoming Suburban models
Current-generation Suburbans offer a common 31-gallon tank across most trims, with the Duramax diesel as the most efficient option and higher-displacement gasoline engines offering robust power at the expense of some range. For owners planning long trips or frequent highway use, diesel variants historically delivered the best single-tank distance, while gasoline models still provide ample range for most daily use and road trips.
In summary, a Suburban’s range per tank typically falls within the following quick estimates, depending on the powertrain: about 700–780 miles with the diesel, around 520–620 miles with the 5.3L V8, and roughly 480–560 miles with the 6.2L V8. Real-world results will vary with driving style, load, and conditions.
Summary: The Chevrolet Suburban’s full-tank distance is largely driven by engine choice and driving conditions. The vehicle’s 31-gallon tank enables a broad range—from roughly half a thousand to well over seven hundred miles—highlighting the trade-offs between efficiency and power across its engine lineup.
