Definition

Diesel cars employ diesel fuel as their primary energy source. Unlike gasoline engines, diesel engines compress air within the cylinder to achieve a high temperature, igniting the diesel fuel injected into the chamber. This combustion process powers the vehicle, rendering diesel cars suitable for applications such as freight trucks, tractors, and marine vessels.

Some automobiles also utilize diesel, offering impressive torque and fuel efficiency compared to their gasoline counterparts. Diesel engines are often used in heavy-duty applications because they provide more torque than gasoline engines. Diesel engines also have better fuel efficiency than gasoline engines.

Advantages

• Fuel Efficiency: Diesel engines are more efficient than petrol engines. They use up to 30% less fuel, which translates to better mileage and cost savings.
• Torque: Diesel engines produce considerably more torque than gasoline engines. This makes them excellent for towing heavy loads or carrying passengers regularly.
• Longevity: Diesel engines tend to be powerful and long-lasting, making them reliable choices for longevity.
• Lower CO2 Emissions: Diesel emits about 20% less CO2 than petrol, often falling into a lower tax band.
• Towing Capability: Diesel cars are great for towing caravans, trailers, boats, and others. They have high torque, which is necessary for towing heavy loads.

Disadvantages

• Higher Initial Cost: Diesel cars tend to be more expensive to purchase than similar gasoline-powered models. However, diesel engines are more fuel-efficient, so the higher purchase price may be offset by lower fuel costs over the life of the vehicle.
• Fuel Cost: Diesel fuel is a type of fuel used in diesel engines. It is usually more expensive than petrol.
• Maintenance Costs: Diesel engines require less frequent servicing than gasoline engines. However, when maintenance is required, diesel engines can be more expensive to service.
• Insurance Premiums: Insurance for diesel cars can be 10-15% higher than for gasoline-powered vehicles. This is because diesel engines produce more particulate matter, which can cause health problems.
• NO2 Emissions: Diesel cars produce more nitrogen dioxide (NO2) than gasoline cars. Nitrogen dioxide can impact air quality and health.
• Particulate Matter: Diesel emissions contain tiny particles that can aggravate asthma and other respiratory conditions. These particles are so small that they can easily penetrate deep into the lungs, where they can cause serious health problems.
• Noise: Diesel engines are slightly noisier than their petrol counterparts. This is because they have a higher compression ratio, which makes them more powerful but noisier.

Examples

• Toyota Hilux (GUN125) - Powered by a 2GD-FTV 2.4L diesel engine.

• Toyota GranAce - Powered by a 1GD-FTV 2.8L 4-cylinder common rail diesel engine producing 177PS of power and 450Nm of torque while mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox.

• Toyota Land Cruiser 70 Series (2024MY) - Powered by a 1GD-FTV 2.8L common-rail turbodiesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

• Mazda CX-60 - Has an available SKYACTIV-D 3.3-litre diesel engine.

• Mitsubishi Delica D:5 (2019MY minor change) - Powered by a 2.2L Common Rail DI-D Clean Diesel engine that generates 145PS of power and 380Nm of torque while mated with an 8-speed Sports Mode AT.

Sources

• https://www.britannica.com/technology/diesel-engine
• https://www.rias.co.uk/news-and-guides/living-and-lifestyle/diesel-vs-petrol-the-pros-and-cons/
• https://www.mynrma.com.au/cars-and-driving/fuel-resources/pros-and-cons-of-petrol-and-diesel-cars
• https://www.trustedchoice.com/insurance-articles/wheels-wings-motors/buy-diesel-car/