The 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel is rated at 28 MPG Highway.

The new Chevrolet Tahoe with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel engine offers an EPA-estimated 28 highway, 21 city and 24 combined mpg in rear-wheel-drive models. EPA-estimated fuel economy for four-wheel drive models is 26 highway, 20 city, and 22 combined mpg. That makes the Tahoe the most fuel-efficient full-size SUV in its class according to GM.

The new Duramax is Chevy’s first diesel inline-six engine for full-size SUVs, and the brand’s first diesel offered in full-size SUVs since the ’90s. The Suburban’s numbers are also impressive. Equipped with the 3.0L Duramax, the Suburban earns 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.”

Although the headline is always efficiency when a diesel vehicle is highlighted, Chevy didn’t add the Duramax solely for range and a lower fuel cost. Rather, the Duramax is intended as a premium engine offering. Chevy added enhanced noise abatement and a new engine control module, specifically designed to leverage the faster data-processing power of the all-new models. The Duramax is exclusively paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission for a smooth shifting experience that also makes the most of the diesel’s high torque at low RPMs.

“The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel brings responsive torque and a smooth driving experience, ideal for those who tow or spend many hours behind the wheel,” said John Barta, assistant chief engineer for the 3.0L Duramax. “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.”

With its SAE-certified 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, 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. The Suburban with the duramax is capable of a maximum towing of 8,000 pounds and a max payload of 1,625 pounds in two-wheel drive models. Chevy includes a standard exhaust brake which can provide additional driver confidence when towing.

The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel is available on the LS, LT, RST and Premier trims with an added cost of $995 over the base 5.3L V-8 gas engine. It is also available in the High Country trim with a $1,500 MSRP decrease over the standard 6.2L V-8 gas engine.

2021 Tahoes and Suburbans with the available 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel will begin before the end of the year according to Chevrolet.