Are you in the market for a new truck and trying to decide between a diesel or a gasoline engine? When it comes down to it, it is truly a driver preference. There is no clear “winner” between the two types of engines, but there certainly are some pros and cons to each. The type of truck best suited for you will depend heavily on your budget and what you will be using your truck for. Is your truck going to be your daily driver on your 40-mile commute, or will you regularly be using it to haul heavy equipment from point A to point B?
Cost: It’s no secret a diesel-powered truck is going to cost you a bit more than the gasoline version…$5,045.00 more on average according to Forbes. Along with the higher initial purchase price, it typically costs a bit more to maintain a diesel engine through its life. These costs may be worth it in the long run, though. Diesel engines tend to last longer than gasoline and maintain a higher resale value when it’s time for you to upgrade.
Power: While towing can certainly be done with a gasoline-powered truck, a diesel may be the better choice if you plan on towing heavy loads long distances. Diesel engines have substantially more torque than their gasoline counterparts, and their exhaust brakes and fuel economy will help get your load where it needs to go. If your new truck is going to be used as a daily driver with only the occasional lightweight haul, the increased power and cost of a diesel engine may not be worth it for you.
Overall, the decision to purchase a diesel or gasoline-powered truck comes down to your own preference. To make the best long-term decision, it’s best to do a bit of research, evaluate your budget capacity, and take a hard look at your driving style to determine what your truck will most often be used for. While a diesel may be the best choice for one person, a gasoline may be the best choice for another.