So-called half-ton pickups will be getting fuel-thrifty diesel engines soon. Diesel
engines, which are popular with trailerists, typically boost fuel economy by about 30
percent. According to a study by the Martec Group, a typical diesel engine option costs the
consumer about $6,660 more than a comparable gas motor. However, after 4.5 years of
ownership, a diesel is worth about $4,700 more than a gas-engined pickup.
During those
years of ownership, the diesel owners surveyed saved about $4,200 on fuel. Ford is going to
offer a 4.4-liter V-8 turbodiesel in the F-150 pickup, and perhaps the Expedition. This
engine is based on the 3.6L turbocharged V-8 used in Range Rovers sold in Europe. Dodge is
adding a Cummins 4.2-liter V-6 turbodiesel to the Ram 1500 pickup truck.
It may put out
about 190 hp and 570 lb-ft of torque and is expected by 2010. GM recently announced plans
for a 4.5L V-8 Duramax turbodiesel in Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500-series pickups,
and the Hummer H2 by 2010. Nissan may add either a V-6 or V-8 Navistar-sourced turbodiesel
to the Titan in 2010.
Rival Toyota may introduce a turbodiesel Tundra, using an Isuzu-built
engine, also in 2010.
