Should You Buy a Diesel Vehicle? Pros, Cons and What You Need To Know
If You Think Diesels Are Loud and Smelly, Think Again!
What do you know about diesel engines? You may dismiss them as something used for trucks. But did you know that more than 50 percent of new cars sold in Europe have diesel engines? Do you wonder why?
There are a lot of advantages to owning a car with a diesel engine. Improving technology has virtually eliminated the smoke and noise that some of us may associate with the diesels of the 80s.
And the fuel emissions cheating scandal that Volkswagen and other manufacturers have faced – and admitted to, been fined for and are atoning for – in recent years has left people with a bad taste for the technology.
But there are still real advantages to owning a diesel, including the outstanding fuel economy and a powerful, durable engine.
They Call it the “Whisper Diesel”
Diesels have come a long way since the 80s. To comply with strict emissions standards, diesel engines are now just as clean and environmentally viable as any regular gas-powered engine.
The new 2018 Chevy Equinox utilizes a 1.6L turbodiesel engine that European journalists have nicknamed “flüster diesel,” or whisper diesel, for its muted noise and vibration qualities. This engine is 65% quieter than the Jaguar F-Pace Diesel, according to General Motors’ Assistant Chief Engineer Mike Siegrist.
With a diesel engine, you get more power. That’s why they are often used in heavy-duty trucks that need to tow heavy loads. Tap the accelerator in a diesel car and you get instant, satisfying response.
Diesel engines are more technologically advanced, more durable, and more powerful than ever before.
Don’t make this mistake: Putting regular gas in a diesel will kill the engine. I found out the hard way.
Whoa – How About That Gas Mileage?
Diesels offer 25 to 30 percent better fuel economy than similar gasoline engines. That’s significant.
While diesel fuel prices have recently creeped higher than regular gas, the fuel economy you get more than makes up for it. Dan Nicholson, Vice President of Global Propulsion Systems for General Motors, says the average customer saves an impressive $7,000 per year driving a diesel vs. a similar gas-powered vehicle.
The popular Toyota Rav4 is revamped into a 33 MPG hybrid.
Pros of Diesel Engines
- Excellent gas mileage.
- Longer range. Better fuel economy means you don’t have to hit the gas station as often. The new 2018 Chevy Equinox boasts a 577-mile cruising range.
- Diesels have no spark plugs or distributors, so they never need ignition tune-ups.
- Better durability. Diesels often last longer than gasoline engines, providing better value and better resale value.
- More torque. Translation: Better get-up-and-go. With a diesel, you feel that power when you press the accelerator. And a diesel engine will out-tow gas-powered vehicles while still delivering improved fuel economy.
Cons of Diesel Engines
- Diesel vehicles are more expensive. Some buyers may feel the fuel-efficiency and durability are not worth the extra cost.
- Engines are more technologically advanced, so service may cost more if you neglect proper maintenance.
- Diesel fuel is more expensive and can sometimes be harder to find.
Looking for diesel sedan? Here’s our review of the Chevy Cruze Diesel.
What Kind of Driver Might Want a Diesel Engine?
Drivers looking for better fuel-efficiency could turn to an electric or hybrid vehicle. But these cars come at a cost. They are often smaller. Sometimes they need to be plugged in. They may lack power. A diesel car might be for you if you:
- Want better fuel-efficiency.
- Drive long distances and don’t want to stop as often for fuel.
- Want all the power of a regular gasoline engine.
- Want to save money, but you still want a full-size vehicle.
- Don’t want to plug in your car to get better fuel economy.
- Want better resale value for your car.
Thinking about a hybrid? Here’s our review of the 2017 Nissan Rogue.
About the 2018 Chevy Equinox
I had the chance to take the 2018 Chevy Equinox for a quick test drive. This compact SUV features a modern design, increased cargo space, and the latest connectivity. I enjoyed the power and responsiveness of the diesel engine. I’m especially excited about its 39 MPG fuel efficiency!
The Equinox also offers an expanded roster of available safety features, such as Teen Driver technology, Safety Alert Seat, Surround Vision, Forward Collision Alert with Following Distance Indicator and more.
The 2018 Equinox with the turbodiesel engine starts at $31,435 and is on sale now.
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