9 Diesel Engine Trucks and Cars That Will Save You Money

The Financial Landscape of Diesel Vehicles

Diesel vehicles are renowned for their exceptional fuel economy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, diesel engines can be 20-35% more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts (source). However, the initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs can sometimes offset these savings.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

One of the significant factors contributing to the higher cost of diesel vehicles is the need for a urea reservoir. This reservoir injects urea into the exhaust system to neutralize pollutants, a part of the clean-diesel technology. While this technology significantly reduces emissions, it also adds to the complexity and cost of maintaining the vehicle.

Depreciation and Resale Value

Diesel vehicles tend to depreciate at a slower rate compared to gasoline vehicles. According to Vincentric, a company specializing in cost-of-ownership analysis, diesel vehicles have lower depreciation rates. However, because they are more expensive to purchase initially, the overall depreciation cost can still be higher.

Vincentric's Study on Diesel Vehicles

Vincentric conducted a comprehensive study analyzing the total cost of ownership for diesel vehicles over five years, assuming an annual mileage of 17,000 miles. The study included 12 diesel models available in the U.S., categorized into commercial and consumer vehicles. Here are the nine diesel models that offer the best cost savings compared to their gasoline counterparts.

Top 9 Diesel Vehicles for Cost Savings

1. Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec

   • Fuel Savings: $4,550
   • Total Cost Difference: $101 more than the gas-powered GL450 4Matic
   • EPA Mileage: 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 20 mpg combined

2. BMW S350 Bluetec 4Matic

   • Fuel Savings: $4,003
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than its gasoline counterpart
   • EPA Mileage: 21 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, 20 mpg combined

3. Chevrolet Cruze Diesel

   • Fuel Savings: Significant compared to gasoline models
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: 27 mpg city, 46 mpg highway, 33 mpg combined

4. Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

   • Fuel Savings: Notable for a truck
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, 26 mpg combined

5. Ford F-250 Super Duty Diesel

   • Fuel Savings: Substantial for heavy-duty use
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: Varies based on configuration

6. GMC Sierra 2500HD Diesel

   • Fuel Savings: Significant for heavy-duty use
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: Varies based on configuration

7. Volkswagen Golf TDI

   • Fuel Savings: High for a compact car
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: 30 mpg city, 45 mpg highway, 36 mpg combined

8. Audi A3 TDI

   • Fuel Savings: Notable for a luxury compact
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: 30 mpg city, 42 mpg highway, 34 mpg combined

9. Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel

   • Fuel Savings: Significant for an SUV
   • Total Cost Difference: Lower than gasoline models
   • EPA Mileage: 22 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, 25 mpg combined

Conclusion

While diesel vehicles often come with higher initial costs and more complex maintenance requirements, their superior fuel efficiency and slower depreciation rates can make them a cost-effective choice in the long run. The nine models highlighted in this article demonstrate that diesel vehicles can offer substantial savings over their gasoline counterparts, making them a viable option for cost-conscious consumers.

For more detailed information on the cost of ownership for various vehicles, you can visit Vincentric's official website.

Interesting Stats

• Diesel engines are 20-35% more fuel-efficient than gasoline engines (source).
• Diesel vehicles tend to have a 10-15% higher resale value compared to gasoline vehicles (source).

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision when choosing between diesel and gasoline vehicles.