6.2 vs 5.3, Significant power difference?

[Ex Euro Driver]

Thinking about making the jump from Tahoe to Yukon and was curious if the power difference is noticeable?

 

[Denali2k8]

Short answer...Yes. 5.3L is around 300hp aprox, 6.2L is closer to 400hp. I just came from a 5.3L pickup to a Denali with the 6.2L and I can tell a difference when driving the two. Even with the SUV being heavier, it makes a difference. The 6 speed in the Denali versus the 5 speed in the Silverado also makes a difference. I am actually getting better mileage overall in the SUV also.

 

[MichaelSE]

Yes. The 5.3 won't make you smile when you stomp on it. The 6.2 will.

 

[Ex Euro Driver]

Sounds like it's a go.

 

[novemberr]

Never drove 5.3. Feel my 6.2 is not even powerful.

 

[jimlucier]

Traded a 4 speed 5.3L 2007 Suburban in on a 2017 8 speed 6.2L Yukon XL Denali. The difference is amazing. The 5.3 always struggled to pull my 4,600 lb boat; also had a hard time moving me and my 3 golf buddies up a slight incline. The 6.2 and 8 speed handles both without breaking a sweat. If you can afford the upgrade, I highly recommend the 6.2/8 speed. An added plus is a significant improvement in mileage (you do have to run premium in the 6.2).

 

[Chris T]

Love the 6.2 in my Yukon Denali shorty. Whenever and whatever you ask it to do, it does no problem. More speed mid-hill - check. Quick getaway at a light - check. Merge onto freeway - check. Or purr like a kitten - check. I test drove a few 5.3's and although I didn't compare them back to back, from everything I've read the 6.2 is the way to go if you can afford it and the premium. For premium, think of it this way: premium today is a at least a dollar or more cheaper than regular from recent times. Do the long term match too - might be a few hundred extra per year.

 

[SidewaystheSeven]

LOL! While I'd certainly like the extra displacement, I've never found my 5.3L Burb to be short on power. I pulled 6K+ lbs worth of trailer and car "loaded down" with 5 people from San Antonio to DFW at > posted speeds with no issues. Without a load I'm getting a solid 23MPG hwy @ 70MPH with just an intake, tune, and cutout. Unless you're getting a killer deal on the 6.2L, or you just want a newer vehicle, throw a few mods and a tune on that 5.3 and enjoy.

 

[peddler]

I road tested both the 5.3 and 6.2. Noticeable power difference between the 2. Gas mileage is rated as 1mpg difference. As far as burning premium, the owners manual states 91 octane. Do the math. You'll be surprised how few dollars the regular to premium difference represents.

 

[Big Mama]

Umm... yes and surprisingly no one mentioned the exhaust note. Even if their both stock exhaust the 6.2 sounds like a V8 should. HP rating much higher and torque numbers are same as HP.