Gas vs Diesel Pickup Truck
Verdict: Choose gas for daily driving, light towing and lower purchase and upkeep costs. Choose diesel if you tow heavy loads often, where its torque and efficiency under load pay back the premium.
Diesel engines are roughly 30 to 35 percent more fuel efficient than similar-sized gasoline engines, according to the Department of Energy's fueleconomy.gov. In pickups that shows up most under a heavy load, and in torque: a one-ton diesel can make over 900 lb-ft where gas trucks produce under 500.
The cost side is just as real. Cars.com puts the premium at about $800 to $2,500 for a light-duty diesel and $10,000 or more for heavy-duty, and diesel needs more maintenance and exhaust fluid. Diesels tend to hold resale value better. For occasional towing and mostly commuting, gas usually wins on cost.
Gas vs Diesel Pickup Truck side by side
| Trait | Gas | Diesel Pickup Truck |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel efficiency | Lower than comparable diesel | About 30 to 35 percent more efficient than similar gas engines |
| Torque | Under about 500 lb-ft in one-ton trucks | Over 900 lb-ft in one-ton trucks |
| Towing | Fine for light and occasional towing | Best for frequent heavy towing; exhaust brakes help |
| Highway fuel economy | Varies by truck | Light-duty near 30 mpg; heavy-duty usually under 20 mpg |
| Price premium | Baseline | About $800 to $2,500 light-duty; $10,000 or more heavy-duty |
| Maintenance | Lower overall | More oil and filters, plus diesel exhaust fluid |
| Exhaust fluid (DEF) | Not needed | Required on new diesel engines |
| Resale value | Lower historically | Historically retains value better |
| Engine life claim | 200,000 to 300,000 miles (one retailer guide) | Often 350,000 or more with good maintenance (same guide) |
Last verified October 2026. Typical values; individual animals, products and local prices vary.
Which one fits you
Gas
- You mostly commute and haul light loads or tow occasionally
- You want the lowest purchase price and lower maintenance bills
- You prefer an engine with less oil and fewer filters to service
- You do not want to buy diesel exhaust fluid
Diesel Pickup Truck
- You tow heavy trailers or campers often, especially long distances
- You carry heavy loads regularly and want torque at low rpm
- You will keep the truck a long time and value resale strength
- You can cover the higher price and upkeep
How this works
The quiz maps your towing, use, budget and ownership plans to the typical strengths of each engine, using fuel economy data from the Department of Energy and truck-buying guides. Prices and mileage vary by model. Quiz answers are weighed equally, and "Not sure" answers are skipped.
Longevity and resale statements come from retail buying guides, not controlled studies. Compare the specific trucks you are considering. Longevity and resale statements come from retail buying guides, not controlled studies. Compare the specific trucks you are considering, including towing ratings, warranty and current fuel prices in your area.
Where these numbers come from
The figures and defaults on this page are based on:
- FuelEconomy.gov: Diesel Vehicles, Gives diesel's 30 to 35 percent efficiency advantage and emissions notes. (checked October 2026)
- Cars.com: Pickup Trucks 101: Gas vs. Diesel, Covers torque, price premium, mpg, DEF, maintenance and resale. (checked October 2026)
- RealTruck: Diesel vs. Gas Trucks, Covers towing, longevity, maintenance and purchase price differences. (checked October 2026)
Buying guide. Prices and ratings change by model year, so verify current figures with a dealer.
Frequently asked questions
Is a diesel pickup more fuel efficient than a gas pickup?
Generally yes. The Department of Energy says diesel engines are about 30 to 35 percent more fuel efficient than similar gasoline engines. Cars.com says light-duty diesel trucks reach near 30 mpg on the highway, while heavy-duty ones are usually under 20 mpg.
How much more does a diesel truck cost?
Cars.com reports about $800 to $2,500 more for a light-duty diesel such as a 2025 Silverado 1500, and $10,000 or more for heavy-duty trucks. Prices change by model year and trim.
Do diesel trucks need DEF?
Yes. New diesel engines use diesel exhaust fluid to meet emissions requirements, which adds a recurring cost and one more fluid to keep topped up.
Do diesel trucks hold their value better?
Cars.com says diesel pickups have historically retained value better than comparable gas trucks. Retained value does not always cover the higher purchase price.
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