What engines come in a Suburban?
In modern Chevrolet Suburbans, the engine lineup includes three powertrains: a 5.3-liter V8, a 6.2-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six. The exact availability depends on model year and trim, but all engines are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered with either rear- or four-wheel drive where applicable.
Engine options
Below is a concise look at the three engines GM currently offers for the Suburban, including displacement, configuration, and typical output.
- 5.3L V8 EcoTec3 — 5.3-liter V8 producing about 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Features cylinder deactivation on certain trims for highway fuel efficiency and is commonly paired with a 10-speed automatic, with rear- or four-wheel drive availability depending on configuration.
- 6.2L V8 EcoTec3 — 6.2-liter V8 delivering around 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Known for stronger acceleration and towing capability, typically paired with a 10-speed automatic and available in rear- or four-wheel drive on higher trims.
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6 — 3.0-liter inline-six turbo diesel generating roughly 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque. Renowned for strong low-end torque and improved highway efficiency, with a 10-speed automatic and drivetrain options similar to the gasoline engines.
Conclusion: The Suburban’s engine lineup is designed to balance everyday usability, muscle for towing, and long-range efficiency, with three distinct powertrains to fit different buyer needs and trim levels.
Summary
The Chevrolet Suburban offers three engine choices: a 5.3L V8, a 6.2L V8, and a 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six. All are paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available with rear- or four-wheel drive, with power and torque tuned to suit different driving and towing requirements.
What kind of engine does the 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. of torque to give you the power to do what you love.
Which Suburban engine is best?
The "best" Suburban engine depends on your priorities: for best fuel economy, choose the 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel. For maximum towing capacity and power, the 6.2L V8 is the top choice. For a balance of capability, cost, and efficiency, the standard 5.3L V8 is a strong and reliable option.
3.0L Duramax Turbodiesel
- Best for: Fuel efficiency and long-range driving.
- Pros: Offers the best fuel economy and high torque for towing at low RPMs. It is also a smooth and quiet engine.
- Cons: Less horsepower than the 6.2L V8.
6.2L V8
- Best for: Performance-oriented users who need maximum power and acceleration.
- Pros: Provides the highest horsepower and is standard on the High Country trim for those who want the most power.
- Cons: Requires premium fuel, has lower fuel economy compared to the other engines, and is only available on the highest trim level.
5.3L V8
- Best for: A balance of capability and value.
- Pros: It is the standard engine, reliable, and has the highest towing capacity when equipped with the Max Trailering Package. It also runs on regular unleaded gasoline.
- Cons: Less powerful and less fuel-efficient than the other options.
How to choose
- Choose the Duramax diesel if: Your priority is to save on fuel and travel long distances.
- Choose the 6.2L V8 if: You want the most power for performance driving and can afford the higher fuel costs and premium fuel requirement.
- Choose the 5.3L V8 if: You want a capable and reliable engine that can tow a lot, is more affordable, and runs on regular gas.
Which Suburban has the 6.2 engine?
Today we're driving the 2025 Chevrolet Suburban RST this is a street performance version of the Suburban this one's equipped with a 6.2 L V8 makes 420 horsepower 460 lb feet of torque that's made it
Is LT or LS Suburban better?
The LT follows after the LS, offering even better features at a slightly higher MSRP. While these features vary from model to model, you'll notice a more luxurious feel overall. However, the Chevy lineup includes impressive comforts, conveniences, and safety features at every price point.
