Nine Diesel-Engined Vehicles That Can Save You Money

May 30
16:54

2024

adawong1

adawong1

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Diesel vehicles are often lauded for their impressive fuel efficiency, but is that enough to make them a better financial choice compared to their gasoline counterparts? This article delves into the true cost of owning a diesel vehicle, considering factors like purchase price, maintenance, insurance, and depreciation. We also highlight nine diesel vehicles that offer significant savings over their gasoline equivalents.

The True Cost of Diesel Ownership

Fuel Efficiency vs. Total Cost

Diesel engines are known for their superior fuel economy. According to the U.S. Department of Energy,Nine Diesel-Engined Vehicles That Can Save You Money Articles diesel engines can be 20-35% more fuel-efficient than their gasoline counterparts (source). However, the initial purchase price and ongoing maintenance costs can offset these savings.

Maintenance and Insurance

Diesel vehicles often require more specialized maintenance. For instance, many modern diesel cars need a urea tank to neutralize pollutants, adding to the maintenance complexity and cost. According to Vincentric, a company specializing in cost-of-ownership analysis, diesel vehicles generally have higher insurance, repair, and maintenance costs compared to gasoline vehicles (source).

Depreciation

One of the surprising findings from Vincentric's research is that diesel vehicles tend to depreciate at a lower rate on a percentage basis. However, because they are more expensive to purchase initially, the total dollar amount of depreciation can be higher.

Top Nine Diesel Vehicles for Cost Savings

Vincentric analyzed 29 diesel vehicles available in the U.S., including both commercial and consumer models. They evaluated the cost of ownership over five years, assuming an annual mileage of 17,500 miles. Here are the nine diesel vehicles that offer the most significant savings compared to their gasoline counterparts.

1. Mercedes-Benz GL350 Bluetec

  • Five-Year Savings: $4,700
  • Fuel Economy: 21 MPG city / 31 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $101 more than the gas-powered GL450 4Matic

2. BMW 328d

  • Five-Year Savings: $3,500
  • Fuel Economy: 31 MPG city / 43 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $1,500 more than the gas-powered 328i

3. Chevrolet Cruze Diesel

  • Five-Year Savings: $2,800
  • Fuel Economy: 27 MPG city / 46 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $2,000 more than the gas-powered Cruze

4. Volkswagen Golf TDI

  • Five-Year Savings: $2,500
  • Fuel Economy: 30 MPG city / 45 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $1,800 more than the gas-powered Golf

5. Ram 1500 EcoDiesel

  • Five-Year Savings: $2,200
  • Fuel Economy: 20 MPG city / 27 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $3,000 more than the gas-powered Ram 1500

6. Ford F-250 Super Duty Diesel

  • Five-Year Savings: $2,000
  • Fuel Economy: 15 MPG city / 20 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $4,000 more than the gas-powered F-250

7. Audi A3 TDI

  • Five-Year Savings: $1,800
  • Fuel Economy: 30 MPG city / 42 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $2,500 more than the gas-powered A3

8. Jeep Grand Cherokee EcoDiesel

  • Five-Year Savings: $1,500
  • Fuel Economy: 22 MPG city / 30 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $3,500 more than the gas-powered Grand Cherokee

9. GMC Sierra 2500HD Diesel

  • Five-Year Savings: $1,200
  • Fuel Economy: 14 MPG city / 20 MPG highway
  • Initial Cost Difference: $5,000 more than the gas-powered Sierra 2500HD

Conclusion

While diesel vehicles often come with a higher initial purchase price and increased maintenance costs, they can offer significant savings over time due to their superior fuel efficiency and lower depreciation rates. If you're considering a diesel vehicle, it's essential to weigh these factors carefully to determine if the long-term savings justify the upfront costs.

For more detailed information on the cost of owning diesel vehicles, you can visit Vincentric's website.

Interesting Stats

  • Only about 3% of passenger vehicles in the U.S. are diesel-powered, compared to over 50% in Europe (source).
  • Diesel engines can last up to 30% longer than gasoline engines, contributing to their lower depreciation rates (source).

By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about whether a diesel vehicle is the right choice for you.