Best Used Diesel Pickup Trucks To Buy
Whether your livelihood requires a diesel or heavy-duty pickup truck or you’re a weekend warrior that needs a truck capable of towing your largest toys – choosing the right used diesel or heavy-duty pickup truck for your needs is especially important. Regardless of your budget, shopping the used market for your truck is a financial decision that both your head and heart can agree on. Basil Family Dealerships has created this handy guide that names our top choices for the best used diesel and heavy-duty trucks. We’ve chosen these models based on their value, capability, dependability, and recognition from top critics in the industry. Ready to see the winners? Let’s get started!
Dodge Ram 2500
When it comes to legendary long-lasting performance and durability, it’s hard to beat a Ram 2500 heavy-duty pickup. The partnership between Ram (Dodge prior to 2009) and Cummins has proved to be an iconic duo for decades thanks to their robust diesel engines. In particular, 2003-2007 models received a mention on the MotorTrend Most Reliable Diesel Pickup Trucks of All-Time list. This generation is available with the improved version of the 24-valve Cummins diesel engine, engineered with a Bosch high-pressure common-rail fuel system and a CP3 injection pump. When properly maintained, Ram 2500 models from this generation have a reputation for going well above the 200,000-mile mark on the odometer while still returning impressive fuel economy figures. Whether used for business or recreational purposes, it’s hard to argue against the value and dependability of a used Ram 2500 diesel truck.
Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD
Another iconic name in the heavy-duty diesel truck segment is the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD. Their Duramax diesel engine and Allison heavy-duty transmissions have made the 2500HD a fixture both on and off the job site. MotorTrend recognized 2006-2007 2500HD models with the 6.6-liter Duramax LBZ diesel engine for their longevity and robust build construction. Improvements to this particular engine over the outgoing model included forged-steel connecting rods, additional webbing within the engine block, 4mm of extra depth within the bores, and reinforced main-bearing caps. As a result, the LBZ diesel engine produced 360 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque along with enhanced durability. For a heavy-duty diesel pickup that achieves a balance between value and dependability, it’s hard to beat a used Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD.
Ford F-250 Super Duty
Another legend in terms of heavy-duty diesel pickup truck performance, the Ford F-250 Super Duty has been pushing the boundaries of power and capability since its introduction decades ago. The venerable Ford Power Stroke diesel engine has been through many iterations since its debut and continues to lead the industry in terms of power delivery and efficiency. Car and Driver recognized the 2008-2010 Ford F-250 Super Duty specifically for its 6.4-liter Power Stroke diesel that cranks out 360 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque. These particular models also represent a significant leap forward in terms of interior creature comforts and refinement as well. The use of Quiet Steel technology within the firewall helps to reduce in-cabin noise while an upgraded interior layout makes the cabin of the F-250 Super Duty an exceptional place to spend time and relax.
Nissan Titan XD
A refreshing alternative to domestic heavy-duty pickup trucks, the Nissan Titan XD was truly the first of its kind. Taking aim at the most established nameplates in the segment, Nissan partnered with Cummins to develop a muscular 5.0-liter turbodiesel engine that cranked out an impressive 310 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque. Truly a departure from antiquated diesel technology, this groundbreaking powertrain was credited with near-zero oxides of nitrogen (NOx) and particulate matter (PM) emissions. It also features an advanced ceramic glow plug system that made the Titan XD virtually effortless to start in cold weather conditions, unlike diesels of the past. While its production was relatively short-lived, a used Nissan Titan XD diesel represents an outstanding value compared to other models of the same age and performance category.