Related: Chevrolet Tahoe Through the Years
Chevrolet 2021 Diesel Tahoe, Suburban Fuel Economy Detailed
The first customer deliveries of the 2021 Tahoe and Suburban with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel are expected to begin before the end of the year.

The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine will offer an EPA-estimated 28 highway, 21 city, and 24 combined mpg in rear-wheel-drive models, and an estimated fuel economy for four-wheel drive models of 26 highway, 20 city, and 22 combined mpg.
Photo: GM
General Motors’ revealed the 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine will offer an EPA-estimated 28 highway, 21 city, and 24 combined mpg in rear-wheel-drive models, and an estimated fuel economy for four-wheel drive models of 26 highway, 20 city, and 22 combined mpg.
This is Chevrolet’s first diesel inline-six engine for full-size SUVs, and the brand’s first diesel offered in full-size SUVs since 1999, according to General Motors. In the Suburban, the 3.0L Duramax offers an EPA estimated 27 highway, 21 city and 23 combined mpg in two-wheel drive models and 26 highway, 20 city and 22 combined mpg in four-wheel drive models.
“The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel brings a refined engine experience to the already impressive redesign of the all-new 2021 Tahoe and Suburban,” said Bob Krapes, Chevrolet Trucks marketing director. “Combining the segment’s best fuel efficiency with increased space inside of the vehicle compared to the previous generation equals an all-new Tahoe and Suburban ready for the next long road trip or family adventure.”
The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel launched first in the 2020 Silverado, according to the automaker. The engine is exclusively paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for a smooth shifting experience.
The Tahoe 3.0L Duramax with two-wheel drive is capable of maximum towing up to 8,200 pounds and a max payload of 1,717 pounds, and offers 277 hp along with 460 lb.-ft. of torque. The Suburban with the same engine is capable of a maximum towing of 8,000 pounds and a max payload of 1,625 pounds in two-wheel drive models, GM said.
“Not only is the 3.0L Duramax a refined engine, but the total experience benefits from the efforts to deliver enhanced driving dynamics in Tahoe and Suburban through the independent rear suspension and available Magnetic Ride Control and Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive Suspension,” said John Barta, assistant chief engineer for the 3.0L Duramax.
The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel is available on the LS, LT, RST and Premier trims with an MSRP of $995 over the base 5.3L V-8 gas engine, the automaker said. It is also available in the High Country trim as a $1,500 MSRP decrease over the standard 6.2L V-8 gas engine.
The first customer deliveries of the 2021 Tahoe and Suburban with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel are expected to begin before the end of the year.
More Vehicle Research

Mid-Atlantic Advanced Transportation Summit to Explore Fleet Fuels, Infrastructure, and Transportation Innovation
Fleet Forward Conference expands collaboration with Clean Cities organizations as part of a broader effort to connect fleet leaders with emerging transportation technologies and strategies.
Read More →
America's 250th Birthday: Vehicles That Kept the Country Moving Over the Years
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, Automotive Fleet looks back at 11 vehicles that helped shape commercial transportation.
Read More →
Can AI Really Make Fleet Drivers Safer?
Chris Brown and Wheels rep David Glines discuss how AI is reshaping safety for fleet drivers.
Read More →
GMC Previews Redesigned 2027 Sierra 1500 with New V8 Engines, Expanded Technology
The next-generation Sierra arrives later this year with new powertrains, a fully redesigned cabin, and trims aimed at the premium end of the full-size pickup segment.
Read More →
Slate Debuts Colorful, Unique EV Models
A recent media and client event, studded with electric vehicles dressed up on platforms, planted a new position for the manufacturer in the wider EV market. Fleets will find cost-saving advantages.
Read More →
Slate Electric SUV, Pickup Switchable Model Aims For Light-Duty Fleets
Everything about this EV is counterintuitive and understated, making it stand out from the crowd.
Read More →
Polestar Barred from U.S. Market Under Connected Vehicle Rule
The automaker loses its authorization to sell new vehicles in the U.S., starting with the 2027 model year. Polestar owners will retain access to the brand's service network.
Read More →
2027 Nissan Frontier Adds Sport Edition Package, New Features
Sport Edition joins the lineup with PRO-4X-inspired styling and off-road-oriented equipment; Frontier starts at $32,490.
Read More →
Chevrolet Brings Duramax Diesel to Work Truck Trim in Next-Generation 2027 Silverado 1500
The 2027 Silverado 1500 adds Duramax diesel availability to the Work Truck trim, introduces two new V-8 engines, and standardizes a 16.3-inch center display across all trims. Pricing and specifications are pending.
Read More →
Recalls, Recognition, and Ram's Big Return | AF News Recap
This week's fleet headlines highlight a mix of industry leadership and an important safety reminder for fleet professionals.
Read More →