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One thing to consider when looking into the pros and cons of diesel powered pickup trucks is the expected usage. Will it be used locally or long highway trips? Diesel engines tend to perform better over distances and have a much better fuel economy over gasoline engines when towing additional equipment. Diesel engines out-perform gasoline engines when hauling heavier loads, also. Diesel engines provide more torque, or low revving power which allows them to pull heavier loads, for greater distances, while using less fuel. While the cost per gallon of diesel is generally about 20% higher than that of gasoline, the diesel engine will get approximately 30% better mileage. That still computes to a relative savings of 10%. Less trips to the fuel pumps today should be high on the pro side of the ledger.

Diesel engines of the past have given them a bad name when it comes to both emissions and noise, but both issues are being addressed and resolutions are in sight. The diesel engine has come a long way in recent years regarding emissions, but they are still not as clean as gasoline engines. However, gasoline engines emit significantly higher amounts of carbon dioxide gases that have been directly attributed to global warming. They are still evolving and someday will be environmentally equal, but for now there are still some unresolved issues that need to be considered. The modern diesel engines are much quieter as well. The technological advances that have been made recently have closed the gap significantly between diesel and gasoline engine noise emission.

Another point against the diesel engine is cold-starting, as they don't do it well. As long as there is a warmer in the tank, and it is always used when the temperature drops below 30 degrees, you will get your diesel to start. Living in a warm climate should alleviate this concern, but there are a lot of places in the United States where that is not possible.

The initial cost for a diesel truck is slightly higher than that of a gasoline powered one and that is directly proportionate to the lifespan of the engine. When properly maintained, a diesel engine can last up to 250,000 miles longer. A diesel engine commonly goes to 250,000 miles before needing a rebuild while a gasoline engine typically needs a rebuild between 100,00 and 150,00 miles. Most diesel owners do not even consider their trucks fully broken in until 100,000 miles. That has a direct impact on the resale value, also it is a weighty advantage when looking at a new vehicle purchase.

Learn more about this author, Wendy Lafond.
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