Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Pompano Beach – Which 2026 Chevrolet Suburban engine is best for towing boats and weekend gear around Fort Lauderdale, FL?
Choosing the right powertrain is the difference between a good towing experience and a great one. The 2026 Chevrolet Suburban gives you three compelling engine options—two V-8s and an available 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6—each paired to a refined 10-speed automatic. If your weekends include launching a boat, pulling a personal watercraft, or hauling a utility trailer, here is how to match your Suburban to your lifestyle around the coastal ramps and highways of Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Start with a clear picture of what you tow most often and the roads you travel. Rated to tow up to 8,300 pounds when properly equipped, rear-wheel-drive models with the available Max Trailering package and the 5.3-liter V-8 deliver the highest capacity. The 6.2-liter V-8 adds stronger passing power and a more athletic feel when merging or climbing hills. Meanwhile, the available 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6 shines for its quiet confidence, generous torque, and relaxed highway character—attributes many boaters appreciate when towing at steady speeds with family onboard.
- Know your load: Confirm the fully loaded weight of your boat and trailer, including fuel, gear, and passengers, to choose a configuration that leaves margin within the rated capacity.
- Match the powerband: If you prefer low-rev, steady-state pulling, the available Duramax Turbo-Diesel’s torque delivery is ideal, while the 6.2-liter V-8 feels more immediate for frequent passing.
- Consider terrain: For flat coastal routes, the 5.3-liter V-8 is a smart all-rounder; for hilly runs or extended highway climbs, the diesel or 6.2-liter V-8 adds reassurance.
- Optimize stability: The Suburban’s long wheelbase helps, and available chassis tech—adaptive dampers and available air suspension—enhances control and comfort with a loaded trailer.
- Leverage trailering tech: Camera views and integrated trailering tools make hitching and maneuvering at the ramp more precise and less stressful.
Daily drivability matters, too. The Suburban’s standard 17.7-inch infotainment display and 11.0-inch digital cluster make it easy to pull up navigation, camera views, and audio while you focus on situational awareness. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, as is a Wi-Fi hotspot, so maps and towing checklists are close at hand. If your route includes long stretches of compatible highways, consider a trim with available Super Cruise hands-free driving. It’s a thoughtful addition that helps reduce fatigue after a day on the water.
Before you pick an engine, review your garage fit and neighborhood logistics. The Suburban’s generous dimensions help with stability, but warrant a quick check of driveway clearance and storage height. Practice low-speed maneuvers at the dealership and ask to test the trailering menus and camera functions. That hands-on time will clarify whether you prefer the diesel’s calm pull or the 6.2-liter V-8’s responsive surge when towing your typical load.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Is the 5.3-liter V-8 enough for a 22-foot boat?
For many fiberglass and aluminum boats in the 4,500 to 6,500-pound loaded range, a properly equipped rear-wheel-drive Suburban with the 5.3-liter V-8 and the available Max Trailering package is a confident match. Verify your combined boat and trailer weight and select gearing and options accordingly.
Why choose the available 3.0-liter Duramax Turbo-Diesel I-6?
Its strong torque and relaxed highway demeanor make it excellent for steady-state towing, especially on longer trips. If you value quiet, low-rev pulling and long-distance comfort, the diesel is a standout.
For tailored guidance, schedule a demo focused on your real-world towing scenario. Our product specialists will help you compare engine responses, review trailering tools, and build a configuration that balances weekend hauling with weekday comfort—Lou Bachrodt Chevrolet Pompano Beach is serving Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, and Lauderhill with expertise and a complete lineup of Suburban models ready to tow. From hitch selection to camera setup, we’ll help you cover every detail so your next launch feels calm, controlled, and repeatable.
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