Generally speaking, true sports utility vehicles are heavy vehicles that drink liberally from the fuel tank. Not every manufacturer is willing to sacrifice power in the name of efficiency, so opting for a diesel SUV is a good compromise. This allows the large vehicles to maintain their appealing power outputs while presenting buyers with a slightly more attractive fuel bill at the end of the month. A quick look at our rankings of the best diesel SUVs of 2024 shows that there are only a few to name.
Characteristics of Diesel SUVs
This is a rather niche segment within the larger SUV classification, so there isn’t all that much room for differentiation between the various models. However, it is clear to see what sets these diesel SUVs apart from their more mainstream compatriots, and what likens them to one another. These are the qualities that define this specialized group:
What to Consider Before Buying a Diesel SUV
If you’re after something torquey with enough power to conquer both the highway and the trail, there are a few characteristics to mull over. You should think about suspension, both for competence and comfort, for starters. An attractive design is also important, as is cargo space. It is imperative that a diesel SUV be cheap and reliable, but you will inevitably have to compromise in some areas. Here are the general strengths and weaknesses of these cars to help you decide what is most important to you:
Pros
- Mountains of torque
- More impressive towing capacities
- Better gas mileage
- More rugged, less wear and tear
Cons
- Not particularly fast
- Shorter service intervals
- Coarse engine sounds
- Regular maintenance needed
FAQs
Is diesel better than gasoline?
Each has its strengths and weaknesses, but some of the reasons to consider diesel over gasoline include: higher torque with quicker low-speed acceleration, top-notch towing figures, lower fuel bills, and a longer engine lifespan.
Are diesel cars more expensive?
Generally speaking, the initial cost of a diesel-engine vehicle is slightly higher than that of a gasoline variant. This is ignoring the all-too-common need for a different drivetrain or gearbox, which may increase prices further. However, the long-term savings on fuel may offset these if you don’t intend to trade in soon.
Why are there so few diesel SUVs in the USA?
It could be argued that increasingly stringent emission regulations have led to the decline in diesel vehicles since they aren’t quite as clean as gasoline-powered cars. It still comes down to the automaker in question, though, with most brands choosing to abandon the fuel in favor of powerful gasoline or more eco-friendly electricity. This is why the list of diesel SUVs is so short.