Chevrolet of Corsicana - Which 2026 Chevrolet Suburban Engine Is Best for Towing in Henderson County, TX?
Choosing the right powertrain for towing is about more than just horsepower. It is about torque where you need it, transmission behavior under load, and how the SUV feels when you are pulling up grades with a full cabin and gear in back. The 2026 Chevrolet Suburban offers three engines—each paired with a 10-speed automatic—and your best choice hinges on what you tow, how often you tow, and the distances you plan to cover around Henderson County, TX and beyond.
The 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel I-6 is the quiet MVP for long-haul towing. With 305 horsepower and an impressive 495 lb-ft of torque, it delivers strong, low-RPM pull that makes merging, passing, and hill climbs feel fluid rather than frantic. The 10-speed automatic keeps the diesel in its torque band without frequent hunting, which helps settle the whole rig. If your weekends include a boat, travel trailer, or utility trailer, and your weekdays include highway miles, the Duramax has the refined muscle to make heavy work feel easy.
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel: Best for steady, low-RPM torque, relaxed highway towing, and confident hill climbs with a calm cabin feel.
- 6.2L V-8: Ideal for drivers who want the most responsive acceleration, authoritative passing power, and effortless confidence when fully loaded.
- 5.3L V-8: A balanced everyday option for mixed city-highway use with occasional towing needs and consistent, predictable performance.
Of course, engine is only part of the towing equation. The Suburban’s available Max Trailering Package enhances cooling, hitching, and trailering tech to help you make full use of your chosen powertrain. Add in the Suburban’s robust frame, available four-wheel drive, and helpful camera-based guidance, and you get a toolset that makes towing more intuitive from the driver’s seat.
Interior comfort matters when towing, too. The Suburban’s three rows and generous cargo capacity let passengers settle in without sacrificing gear. The 17.7-inch infotainment display and 11.0-inch driver cluster keep navigation, trailering data, and audio easily accessible. And if your travel takes you along long, compatible highways, available Super Cruise can reduce fatigue with hands-free assistance—while you continue monitoring the road ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does the Max Trailering Package make a noticeable difference?
Yes. The package adds hardware and software enhancements designed to stabilize towing performance, streamline hitching, and improve temperature control under load. It helps you get the most out of any Suburban engine choice.
Which axle ratio should I consider for towing?
Higher numeric axle ratios typically improve initial pull and grade performance. Ask our team to review available axle configurations based on your trailer’s weight and the terrain you typically drive.
How do the transmission and engines work together while towing?
The 10-speed automatic maintains a tight spread of ratios, helping keep each engine in its optimal torque range. This reduces frequent shifting and supports steady, confident acceleration under load.
Is four-wheel drive recommended for towing?
While not mandatory, four-wheel drive can improve traction on boat ramps, gravel, and wet surfaces. If your routes include unpaved roads or slippery conditions, 4WD adds useful peace of mind.
When you are ready to select your configuration, our team—serving Waxahachie, Henderson County, and Athens—can help you calibrate engine, axle, and trailering features to your specific trailer and travel routine. We can also demonstrate the Suburban’s trailering tech, including camera views and guidance, so you can feel how it all comes together from behind the wheel.
If you would like a side-by-side drive of diesel versus gas V-8 options, we are happy to set up a route with highway, stop-and-go, and a few grades to simulate weekend towing. That way, you can feel the differences in pull, sound levels, and transmission behavior firsthand. When the drive fits your real world, the right choice usually becomes obvious. For tailored guidance and an informative test drive, contact Chevrolet GMC of Corsicana and let us know what you tow, how often, and where you go. We will handle the details so you can focus on enjoying the journey.