If you’re in the market for a new truck you may be considering moving from gas to diesel. You likely already know, diesel engines produce more low-end torque, great for trucks that will be towing heavy equipment, but let’s delve deeper:
The Towing Capacity
Probably the most notable and desirable feature the diesel truck boasts is its incredible towing capacity. Diesel engines provide more torque, meaning more pulling power. Let’s compare the towing capacity on the 2020 Ram 1500 Big Horn diesel to the regular Ram 1500 Big Horn
- 3.6-Liter V6 24V VVT eTorque (Regular Big Horn) – Max towing equals 7,730 lbs
- 3.0L V6 Turbo Diesel Gen 3 (Diesel Big Horn) – Max towing equals 10,040 lbs
As you can see there is a noticeable difference in these two towing capacities. Both these trucks cost the same amount, the price being $36,885 msrp. If you have a job where you need to tow heavy items, or maybe if you have a large trailer or boat, the diesel variant may be the best option for you.
Maintenance
Something that doesn’t get mentioned enough for the diesel engine is the frequency of maintenance that is required, or the lack thereof. Generally, if you treat your truck well, you won’t have to get it worked on as often as you would a gas powered truck. Even though diesel engines are internal combustion engines, not hybrids or electric, the way that they operate means they tend to require less upkeep and service. You’ll still need to take proper care of your vehicle and have it serviced as recommended by the manufacturer, of course, but this is usually less frequent and involves fewer replacements than a gas engine. That being said, maintenance needed for a diesel engine is typically more expensive than for a gas engine. Replacement parts can cost a bit more and the maintenance itself can be more expensive, but this is, of course, offset in part by a reduced need for service that diesel trucks require.
Fuel Efficiency
The fuel efficiency of diesel trucks is impressive, comparatively speaking. In general, diesel engines have better overall fuel economy than standard gas engines, especially when it comes to highway driving, making them a great option if you spend more time on the highway than around town. We’ll look at the 1500 Big Horn again so you can see how much a diesel engine really makes a difference.
- 3.6L V6 with eTorque: 20/25/22 MPG – City/Highway/Combined
- 3.0L EcoDiesel V6: 22/32/26 MPG – City/Highway/Combined
As you can see you get almost 10 more mpg on the highway, which in the long run will save you a sizable amount of money.
So Which Truck Should You Get?
It really depends on what you plan on using the truck for. Do you have a job that requires you to drive on the highway frequently while towing a trailer full of work supplies? Then the diesel option is perfect for you. Do you do most of your driving around town and rarely ever haul anything heavy? Then maybe a regular gas powered truck is up your alley. If you have more questions regarding diesel trucks, or if you want to give a diesel or regular gas Ram truck a test drive today, come visit us at Briggs Dodge Ram.
