Yes GM, please build the 2020 Chevy Tahoe or Suburban with a 3.0-liter Duramax diesel. Power and efficiency are compelling reasons. Imagine having the option of a 277 horsepower, 460 lb-ft of torque 2020 Chevy Tahoe or Suburban with a 3.0L Duramax diesel engine.
It’s not that far fetched when you look at GM’s desire to get a return on their investment. The potential for a Chevrolet Suburban diesel makes for a compelling argument against Ford’s surging Expedition to be sure. That’s a lot of torque out of a power-plant that could be very economical.
Keeping it simple, let’s just look at the current Chevrolet Suburban:
- You get a 355 hp 5.3-liter V8 that makes 383 lb-ft of torque @ 4100 rpm. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard.
- A 420 hp 6.2-liter is optional and it makes 460 lb-ft or torque @ 4100 rpm. It’s hooked up to a 10-speed automatic transmission.
- The 2WD 5.3-liter V8 version of the Suburban is rated at 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. The 6.2L V8 is rated at 14 mpg city/23 mpg highway with 2WD and 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway with 4WD.
- A 31-gallon fuel tank is standard and maximum range is estimated at over 650 miles.
- Maximum towing is 6,300 lbs with a maximum GVWR of 7,300 lbs. 7,500 with the 6.2L.
Currently, GM announced the numbers with their 3.0-liter Duramax diesel in the 1/2-ton pickup truck. In that configuration, it is the same price increase as adding a 6.2-liter gas engine.
The new diesel should be much more efficient, capable of longer range and there’s a chance it can tow more. With that being said, I am curious if the new independent rear suspension (IRS) will lower the tow rating on the next generation Tahoe and Suburban.
Still, the potential of a new, lighter 2020 Chevy Tahoe or Suburban with a 3.0L Duramax Diesel, an IRS and (possibly) an updated 10-speed automatic transmission is pretty compelling.
By the way, do you remember the 1982 6.2-liter Detroit Diesel V8 available in the Suburban? It made 130 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It’s wasn’t a very big hit.
Let’s hope the new diesel is a hit… IF they offer it.
What’s your opinion?
