How many cylinders does a Suburban have?
The Suburban typically uses eight cylinders in its gasoline V8 options, with a six‑cylinder diesel option available in newer models. The exact count depends on the engine you choose.
Chevrolet has offered multiple powertrains for the Suburban over the years. In the current lineup, buyers can select from two eight‑cylinder gasoline engines or a six‑cylinder inline‑six diesel, depending on the model year and trim. Understanding which engine you're looking at helps explain why a Suburban might feel more like a workhorse or a long-distance cruiser.
Current engine options
In the latest Suburban models, three main powertrains are available: two gasoline V8s and one diesel inline‑six. Each option preserves the model’s capability for towing and family hauling while varying in efficiency and performance.
Gasoline V8 options
The gasoline lineup includes a 5.3-liter V8 and a 6.2-liter V8. Both are eight-cylinder engines, delivering substantial power for acceleration and towing while keeping the familiar performance profile of a GM V8.
Diesel option
The diesel option is a 3.0-liter Duramax turbocharged inline‑six, which has six cylinders. It emphasizes torque and fuel efficiency, especially under load.
What this means for buyers
When shopping, note the cylinder count as it informs both performance and fuel economy. If you prioritize outright power and towing capacity, the 5.3L or 6.2L V8 (eight cylinders) is a strong choice. If you want improved fuel economy and ample torque for heavy loads, the 3.0L Duramax inline‑six (six cylinders) offers a different balance. Availability can vary by year, trim level, and region.
Historical context
Across its generations, the Suburban has been offered primarily with large V8 engines, with diesel variants appearing more recently. The move to include a six‑cylinder Duramax diesel aligns with broader GM strategy to offer more efficient, torque-rich options in full‑size SUVs, while maintaining the Suburban’s payload and towing capabilities.
Summary
In short, a Suburban commonly has eight cylinders when equipped with gasoline V8 engines, and six cylinders when equipped with the Duramax inline‑six diesel. The exact configuration depends on model year and trim, but eight‑cylinder gasoline engines have historically been the standard in this SUV.
Is there a 6 cylinder Suburban?
For drivers requiring additional power, the 2025 Chevrolet Suburban is available with a Duramax® 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder diesel engine, delivering 305 horsepower and impressive torque.
What year is bad for suburbans?
Years to avoid for the Chevy Suburban include 2007–2009, due to potential engine issues like excessive oil consumption from Active Fuel Management (AFM) piston ring problems. The 2010–2014 models are also a concern due to AFM issues, oil consumption, and recalls related to Takata airbags. 2015–2017 and some newer models may have issues with the 8-speed transmission and other electrical or mechanical problems.
You can watch this video to learn about problems with Chevy Suburbans from 2007 to 2023: 57sOBD InsightsYouTube · Feb 2, 2024
Specific years to approach with caution
- 2007–2009: These models are known for significant engine problems related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system, which can lead to excessive oil consumption.
- 2010–2014: While the 6-speed transmission was introduced in 2010, these years still had issues with the AFM system, oil consumption, and recalls for Takata airbags.
- 2015–2017: These models are associated with problems with the 8-speed transmission.
- 2018–2022: Some owners report issues with the engine, transmission, and air conditioning, particularly in the 2015–2017 models.
- 2021–2024: Recalls have been issued for engine manufacturing defects in these model years, affecting the connecting rod and/or crankshaft.
This video discusses engine problems with the Active Fuel Management system in Chevy Suburbans: 57sSUBOVERLANDYouTube · Jun 9, 2024
What to look for instead
- 2000–2006: These models are generally considered more reliable, especially those without the AFM system.
- 2011–2014: The AFM system was supposedly fixed in these years, but still check for issues related to the 6-speed transmission.
- 2018–2020: Some owners consider these years to be reliable, but be aware of potential transmission issues with 8-speed transmissions.
- 2021–2024: Some owners consider these models to be more reliable, but check for recalls related to engine defects.
Is Suburban a V6 or V8?
V8
The Suburban as of today is a full-size SUV (upgraded to extended-length from 1967 onward to make room for the then-new K5 Blazer that debuted in 1969) with three rows of seating, a full pickup truck frame, and V8 engine.
How much horsepower does a 5.3 L V8 Suburban have?
Standard on all models except High Country, the 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 engine with Dynamic Fuel Management delivers 355 horsepower and 383 lb. -ft.
