Diesel or Gas HD: Which Truck Is Best For You? (Video)

Diesel or Gas HD pickups

Initial Cost

A new turbo-diesel heavy duty pickup truck will cost between $8,800 to $11,000+ more than a comparable gasoline V8-powered HD pickup truck.

Payload

The diesel trucks weigh 700-900 lbs more than their gas counterparts. This weight difference is counteracted by the monstrous torque the diesels produce. These truck are very quick, but they have lower payload rating because of the heavier diesel engines and transmission.

Maintenance Cost

Diesel trucks are more expensive to maintain over time. The fuel filter needs to be checked more often. The oil changes are more expensive. After-warranty injection system, turbocharger, DPF and DEF exhaust system repairs can get outrageously expensive.

Efficiency

Diesel trucks are more fuel efficient than gas V8 trucks, especially while towing. We have proven this many time on the Ike Gauntlet and the highway towing MPG loops.

If you plan to tow heavy weights on a regular basis, a diesel HD truck would be the right choice if you can afford it. If you tow occasionally, a gas V8 HD truck will save you a lot of money.

Andre Smirnov
Andre Smirnov is an Automotive Enthusiast, Producer, Reviewer, Videographer, Writer, Software Engineer, Husband, Father, and Friend.