Diesel engines have been integral to the automotive world since 1897, the year Rudolf Diesel successfully built the first working prototype. He had earlier conceptualized and designed the original compression ignition engine in 1892. Little could anyone have predicted that the engine and fuel bearing his name would go on to become a cornerstone of the trucking industry. More than a century later, diesel engines continue to be essential for performing heavy-duty tasks, especially when it comes to hauling substantial loads.
10. 2017–2022 Chevrolet Colorado / GMC Canyon
2.8-liter Duramax – Towing Capacity: 7,700 Pounds
The compact yet robust 2.8-liter Duramax four-cylinder diesel engine featured in the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon has earned its place as one of the most impressive diesel engines ever produced for midsize pickups. It delivers strong fuel efficiency and class-leading towing capacity, helping these GM trucks outperform many rivals in their segment.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 2.8-liter Duramax 4-cylinder
- Transmission: 6-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 181 hp
- Torque: 369 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 2,181 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 7,700 pounds
The Duramax engine’s strong low-end torque offers a distinct advantage off-road. This engine was also used in the Colorado ZR2, a trail-ready version of the truck, giving it the torque needed to muscle through mud and rough terrain better than many gasoline-powered alternatives.
9. 2019–2021 Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500
3.0-liter Duramax – Towing Capacity: 9,400 Pounds
The introduction of the Duramax diesel engine into the half-ton Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 gave these trucks a solid mix of power and fuel economy, outshining traditional gasoline V8s in several areas. Notably, the six-cylinder diesel matched the torque output of GM’s 6.2-liter V8 engine.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 3.0-liter Duramax 6-cylinder
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 277 hp
- Torque: 460 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 1,970 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 9,400 pounds
Chevrolet offered this diesel option across multiple trim levels, including the LT, RST, LTZ, and High Country. When paired with the Convenience and Trailering packages, this powertrain makes towing heavy loads more accessible and efficient.
8. 1994–1998 Dodge Ram 2500 / 3500
5.9-liter 12-Valve Cummins – Towing Capacity: 9,600 Pounds
Cummins diesel engines have earned legendary status, and the 5.9-liter version found in 1994–1998 Dodge Ram heavy-duty trucks plays a big role in that legacy. This model improved upon earlier versions by including a fully mechanical inline injection pump—complex, yet incredibly dependable.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 5.9-liter 12-valve Cummins 6-cylinder
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 160–215 hp
- Torque: 400–440 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 4,750 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 9,600 pounds
The five-speed manual transmission was the top choice among enthusiasts, known for its durability. Featuring a cast-iron case, a “granny-low” first gear for crawling, and an overdrive fifth gear for enhanced highway efficiency, it made the Dodge Ram a true workhorse.
7. 2011–2023 Ram 1500
3.0-liter Chrysler EcoDiesel – Towing Capacity: 9,600 Pounds
Diesel power changed the game for half-ton pickups. Trucks like the Ram 1500 gained significantly improved fuel economy and low-end torque thanks to the introduction of a diesel engine. The 3.0-liter EcoDiesel, developed by VM Motori—a subsidiary of FCA at the time—was offered across various models, including the Ram 1500.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 3.0-liter Chrysler 6-cylinder
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 260 hp
- Torque: 480 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 1,780 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 9,600 pounds
This engine earned its stripes by being named to Ward’s Ten Best Engines list from 2014 through 2016. Its standout qualities—reliability, performance, and efficiency—cemented its reputation as one of the best diesel options in the half-ton truck segment.
6. 2023–Present Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500
3.0-liter Duramax – Towing Capacity: 13,300 Pounds
While some automakers pulled back on diesel options, GM took the opposite approach—refining the Duramax six-cylinder diesel engine even further. As of now, it stands as the last diesel powertrain available in the half-ton pickup class, setting it apart as something of a rarity. Enhancements include upgraded fuel injectors, redesigned pistons, a reworked turbocharger compressor, and a newly shaped combustion bowl.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 3.0-liter Duramax 6-cylinder
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 305 hp
- Torque: 495 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 1,970 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 13,300 pounds
One of the standout features of this upgraded engine is its quiet operation. Unlike the noisy, clunky diesels of the past, this version runs smoothly and quietly, making it ideal for both work and everyday use. It’s available across multiple trims, most notably in the off-road-focused Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2.
5. 2003–2007 Dodge Ram 2500/3500
5.9-Liter 24-Valve Cummins — Towing Capacity: 16,400 Pounds
The upgraded Cummins diesel engine introduced in this generation marked a significant improvement over the unreliable model used up until 2002. As one of the final diesel engines produced without emissions restrictions, this version stood out for its configurability—its ECM (engine control module) could be tuned for increased power, transforming the already formidable Dodge Ram into a true performance powerhouse.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 5.9-liter 24-valve Cummins inline-six
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 235–305 hp
- Torque: 460–555 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 3,010 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 16,400 pounds
Beyond its solid reputation for reliability and performance, this Cummins engine was also impressively fuel-efficient, regularly achieving over 20 mpg. With proper maintenance, these trucks can easily surpass 200,000 miles without major mechanical issues, making them a long-term workhorse for heavy-duty needs.
4. 2006–2007 Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra
6.6-Liter Duramax LBZ — Towing Capacity: 16,500 Pounds
The 6.6-liter Duramax LBZ is a fan favorite among GM diesel enthusiasts. Known for its user-friendly and easily modifiable ECM, the LBZ provided a noticeable performance upgrade from the earlier LB7. With increased horsepower and torque, this engine was more than capable of hauling serious weight, both in the bed and on a trailer. Like the LB7, the LBZ could achieve over 20 mpg on the highway under ideal conditions.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 6.6-liter Duramax V8 (LBZ)
- Transmission: 5-speed Allison automatic or 6-speed ZF6 manual
- Horsepower: 360 hp
- Torque: 650 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 5,300 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 16,500 pounds
Diesel engines from this era, such as the LBZ, were not yet affected by strict emissions standards, making them particularly appealing for performance-focused buyers. With outstanding durability and reliability, these powertrains made GM’s heavy-duty trucks a lasting investment with minimal upkeep.
3. 2001–2004 Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 2500/3500
6.6-Liter Duramax LB7 — Towing Capacity: 16,700 Pounds
The original Duramax LB7 set a high benchmark for diesel V8s with its strong combination of power and fuel efficiency. Even though diesel trucks weren’t required to publish fuel economy numbers, many owners report achieving over 20 mpg regularly with the LB7. That kind of efficiency was impressive, especially considering the muscle this engine delivered.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 6.6-liter Duramax V8 (LB7)
- Transmission: 5-speed Allison automatic or 6-speed manual
- Horsepower: 310 hp
- Torque: 590 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 4,900 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 16,700 pounds
Beyond its impressive powertrain, GM equipped this generation with an independent front suspension, vastly improving comfort and ride quality over long hauls. Paired with the highly respected Allison 1000 transmission—widely considered one of the best in its class—these trucks delivered both capability and comfort in one heavy-duty package.
2. 1999–2003 Ford F-250 / F-350 Super Duty
7.3-Liter Power Stroke — Towing Capacity: 21,500 Pounds
The 7.3-liter Power Stroke V8 is one of Ford’s most legendary diesel engines, offering unmatched strength and reliability during its run. Available from 1999 to 2003 in the Super Duty lineup, this engine gained a strong following for its low-maintenance design and consistent performance in demanding work conditions.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 7.3-liter Power Stroke V8
- Transmission: 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual
- Horsepower: 235–275 hp
- Torque: 500–525 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 3,495 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 21,500 pounds
With a rock-solid powertrain and two dependable transmission options, these trucks were built to last. Many are still on the road today with odometers reading well over 200,000 miles—testament to the enduring quality and performance of the 7.3-liter Power Stroke.
1. 2011–Present Ford F-250 / F-350 Super Duty
6.7-Liter Power Stroke — Towing Capacity: 40,000 Pounds
The 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 has seen ongoing refinements since its debut in 2011. Over time, Ford has continued to enhance this engine’s performance, making it one of the most powerful and capable diesel options in the heavy-duty segment. The current iteration, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, can tow up to 40,000 pounds, cementing its status as a class leader.
Powertrain Specifications
- Engine: 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Horsepower: 475–500 hp
- Torque: 1,050–1,200 lb-ft
- Payload Capacity: 6,965 pounds
- Towing Capacity: 40,000 pounds
Throughout its lifespan, this engine has seen critical improvements—including upgrades to the turbocharger and a six-bolt-per-cylinder design that improves head gasket reliability. Today’s 6.7-liter Power Stroke is both durable and immensely powerful, built to endure hundreds of thousands of miles without compromise.
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