Looking for a powerhouse truck that can handle heavy loads with ease? Diesel engines might be less common these days, but they’re still champions when it comes to towing and hauling, thanks to their low-end torque.
Besides their impressive strength, diesels often outshine their gasoline counterparts in fuel efficiency, making them a smart choice for both work and economy. To help you choose, we’ve rounded up 11 of the best diesel-powered trucks available on the market today.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD
Let’s talk about the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD—your go-to when serious towing is on the agenda. This truck, equipped with the same trusty 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8 found in its GM siblings, brings 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque to the table.
Capable of towing up to 36,000 lbs, the Silverado 3500HD focuses on what matters: getting the job done. It’s straightforward and work-centric, even in its highest spec, contrasting with the more luxurious offerings of its competitors.
2024 Ram 2500
Step inside the 2024 Ram 2500 and you’ll find a truck that marries power with plushness. At the heart of it is a 6.7-liter Cummins turbodiesel inline-six engine, delivering 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque. This Ram can confidently tow up to 19,010 lbs and manage a payload of 2,380 lbs, covering most needs with ease. Renowned for its combo of brawn and luxury, the Ram 2500 makes no compromises, offering a ride that’s as comfortable as it is capable
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500
If you’re in the market for a light-duty truck that doesn’t skimp on efficiency or power, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 deserves your attention. Just like its cousin, the GMC Sierra 1500, this Chevy is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter Duramax diesel inline-six engine, delivering 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque.
What sets it apart, interestingly, is its fuel efficiency. The Silverado 1500, particularly in its rear-wheel-drive version, boasts an EPA-estimated 26 mpg—slightly edging out the Sierra. With the capability to tow up to 13,300 lbs and a payload capacity of 1,970 lbs, it combines amazing performance with remarkable fuel economy, making it a top choice for those who value power and efficiency in their daily drive.
2024 Ram 3500
If you find the Ram 2500 just isn’t quite cutting it for your heaviest loads, consider stepping up to the 2024 Ram 3500. This beast comes in two flavors of the renowned 6.7-liter Cummins turbocharged inline-six diesel engine. The standard model delivers 370 horsepower and 850 lb-ft of torque, while the high-output version ups the ante to 420 horsepower and 1,075 lb-ft of torque.
Sure, it might not out-muscle the top Ford models, but with a towing capacity of up to 37,090 lbs and a maximum payload of 7,680 lbs, the Ram 3500 is more than capable of handling your toughest jobs.
2024 GMC Sierra 1500
In the realm of light-duty trucks, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 stands out with its 3.0-liter Duramax inline-six diesel engine. Producing 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, this engine not only offers substantial power but is also the most fuel-efficient among the Sierra’s lineup, boasting an impressive EPA rating of 25 mpg.
With Ford and Ram stepping back from diesel in this segment, GMC and Chevrolet remain your go-to brands for diesel-powered half-ton trucks. Whether you’re commuting or hauling, the Sierra 1500 diesel combines everyday usability with commendable towing capability, making it a top pick for efficiency and performance.
2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
If you’re eyeing a solid, no-frills work truck, the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD might just be your perfect match. Sharing the same robust 6.6-liter Duramax V8 diesel engine as its cousin, the GMC Sierra, this Chevy means business. It cranks out a commendable 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque.
While it might not win a beauty contest against the Sierra, and lacks some of the luxury touches, the Silverado 2500HD makes up for it in value. If your priority is capability over style and you’re looking to keep a bit more cash in your pocket, this Chevy stands ready to deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
2024 GMC Sierra 3500HD
Need a heavy-lifter that won’t let you down? The 2024 GMC Sierra 3500HD steps up to the plate with its powerful 6.6-liter Duramax diesel V8, offering 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. Though it may not match the top Ford models in raw power, it can still tow a hefty 36,000 lbs.
This GMC isn’t just about muscle; it comes with all the comforts you could want in a truck, making it an excellent choice for those who haul heavy loads but don’t want to compromise on luxury.
2024 Ford Super Duty F-450
If you thought the F-350 was impressive, wait until you meet the 2024 Ford Super Duty F-450. This powerhouse comes with the same 6.7-liter Power Stroke engine, and when equipped with the High Output option, it delivers a jaw-dropping 500 horsepower and 1,200 lb-ft of torque. Imagine towing up to 40,000 lbs with a gooseneck hitch — yes, that’s the kind of muscle we’re talking about!
Plus, with a maximum payload capacity of 8,000 lbs, it’s safe to say that whatever you need moved, the F-450 can handle it. Go ahead, why not pull your house to your next destination?
2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD
Switching gears to GMC, the 2024 Sierra 2500HD brings its own brand of strength to the table with a 6.6-liter Duramax V8 that churns out 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. While it might trail slightly behind the top-tier Fords in raw power, it holds its own with impressive towing capabilities up to 22,500 lbs.
And if it’s luxury you’re after, the Denali trim will not disappoint. Decked out with the latest tech and high-end finishes, the Sierra 2500HD in Denali guise proves that power can indeed come with a touch of class.
2024 Ford Super Duty F-350
When you need a truck that can handle almost any job, look no further than the 2024 Ford Super Duty F-350. Sporting a 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 engine, this truck offers you a choice between formidable strength and sheer muscle. Opt for the standard version and you get 475 horsepower coupled with 1,050 lb-ft of torque.
Or, if you’re looking for something with even more power, the High Output version cranks it up to 500 horsepower and a staggering 1,200 lb-ft of torque. Either way, you’re in for a powerful ride that’s ready to tow just about anything you can hitch to it.
2024 Ford Super Duty F-250
The 2024 Ford Super Duty F-250 might share its heart with the larger F-350, but it stands on its own with unique offerings. Equipped with the same 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel V8, the F-250 blends rugged capability with unexpected luxuries. It’s a work truck, sure, but it doesn’t feel like one inside. From comfortable seating to advanced infotainment systems, this truck proves that you can have it all—power to haul and the amenities to make every trip fun.
