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Hey, engine size matters. Trucks, cars, and SUVs each compete for bragging rights by pumping out the most horsepower. However, the weakest full-size SUV is winning in a completely different way with three secret advantages. 

The weakest full-size SUV should be taken seriously 

The weakest full-size SUV is the 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe with the Duramax 3.0-liter diesel engine. It cranks out 277 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. 

You can upgrade to the 6.2-liter V8 engine for 420 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. But that extra power might only benefit you on paper aside from providing a slightly faster acceleration time. The diesel engine is more than well-equipped to get things done. 

1. The diesel Chevy Tahoe is efficient 

The diesel Chevy Tahoe gets an EPA-estimated 21 mpg in the city and up to 28 mpg on the highway. It’s incredibly efficient for a large family hauler. 

With the 6.2-liter V8 engine, the Tahoe gets an EPA-estimated 14 mpg in the city and up to 20 mpg on the highway. Taking your family on a road trip or using your Tahoe for work could be much cheaper with the diesel engine equipped. 

2. The diesel engine provides maximum towing power 

When properly equipped, the diesel Tahoe can tow up to 8,400 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,717 lbs. The Tahoe can tow up to 8,300 lbs and carry a payload of up to 1,671 lbs. 

The 2024 Chevy Tahoe parked near a home
2024 Chevy Tahoe | Chevrolet

So, the Duramax diesel engine has a bit more muscle. Drivers often say that diesel engines are better for towing due to the extra torque, integrated exhaust brake, and improved fuel economy with heavier loads. 

3. Diesel engines are more reliable 

Going with the weakest full-size SUV could provide a longer-lasting vehicle. Diesel engines are built to be more durable so they can handle the compression source of the ignition cycle. 

Plus, diesel is an oil that lubricates the engine as it runs while gas is a solvent that dissolves oil and can increase engine wear. Diesel engines last longer than gas-powered options. 

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Staff Writer

Allison Barfield

Allison Barfield joined MotorBiscuit in 2020 and covers all things trucks, SUVs, and Jeeps. Having grown up on a farm in Rock Hill, South Carolina, she’s no stranger to the “Best in Class” truck and SUV debates; people in her hometown were always gathering to help work on vehicles together, and deliberation would naturally arise.

Allison graduated from the University of South Carolina with a degree in Media Arts. She has helped bring awareness to issues Women In Trucking face and has promoted Truckers Against Trafficking, an anti-trafficking NGO.

A fan of creatively dark literature, Allison appreciates the works of Shirley Jackson and Emily Dickenson. She lives in a mountainous area of the country and enjoys off-roading and camping. Her dog, Bruce, often joins her in testing trucks and SUVs for our site.