Diesel trucks are renowned for their robust power, impressive towing capabilities, and enduring reliability, making them a top choice for both demanding work and adventurous lifestyles. If you’re in the market for a dependable workhorse or a capable hauler without breaking the bank, the used diesel truck market offers a treasure trove of options. But with so many models and brands available, finding the Best Rated Diesel Truck for your needs can be daunting.
This guide, crafted by automotive experts at cardiagnosticnearme.com, dives deep into the best used diesel trucks across various manufacturers. We’ve analyzed performance, reliability, owner reviews, and overall value to bring you a curated list of top-rated diesel pickups that stand out from the crowd.
GMC Diesel Trucks: Professional Grade Power and Refinement
GMC has long been synonymous with “professional grade,” and their diesel trucks live up to this reputation, offering a blend of robust performance and refined interiors.
1. 2020 GMC Sierra 1500: Modern Efficiency and Capability
Front view of a dark gray 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 marked a significant step forward with its introduction of a new 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel engine. This engine, paired with a smooth 10-speed automatic transmission, delivers an excellent balance of fuel efficiency and capability. Owners consistently praise its comfortable ride, stylish appearance, and impressive fuel economy for a full-size truck. While offering substantial torque for towing and hauling tasks, the Sierra 1500 maintains a composed and comfortable driving experience, making it a top-rated choice for everyday use and weekend projects. Expect to find used models ranging from approximately $28,000 to $56,000 depending on condition and mileage.
2. 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD: Heavy-Duty Muscle with Advanced Technology
For those requiring serious towing and hauling prowess, the 2020 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a standout. This heavy-duty truck boasts a potent 6.6L Duramax L5P diesel engine, coupled with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. This combination delivers a commanding 445 horsepower and a massive 910 lb.-ft. of torque. The Sierra 2500HD’s robust powertrain and advanced technology, including impressive towing aids, make light work of even the heaviest loads, up to 35,500 pounds. Its reputation for reliability and sheer power earns it high ratings among diesel truck enthusiasts.
3. 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD: Proven Duramax Reliability
Front view of a dark gray 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
Stepping back in time, the 2007 GMC Sierra 2500HD remains a highly recommended used diesel truck, primarily due to its venerable 6.6L Duramax engine. This generation of Duramax is known for its durability and strong performance, offering a driving experience that many diesel purists appreciate. While lacking some of the modern tech of newer models, the 2007 Sierra 2500HD provides a solid, reliable, and capable diesel truck at a more accessible price point.
4. 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD: Fuel Efficiency Leader of its Era
The 2006 GMC Sierra 2500HD is another older model that earns a spot on our best-rated list, specifically for its surprisingly good fuel economy for a heavy-duty diesel truck of its time. Owners often report exceeding 20 mpg on the highway, a notable achievement for a truck of this size and capability. This fuel efficiency, combined with the dependable Duramax engine, makes the 2006 Sierra 2500HD a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable and economical used diesel truck.
5. 2017 GMC Canyon: Maneuverable Mid-Size Diesel
Front view of a dark gray 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
For those who prefer a more manageable size without sacrificing diesel power, the 2017 GMC Canyon is an excellent mid-size option. Equipped with a 2.8L 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the Canyon delivers 181 horsepower and a robust 369 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine provides ample power for daily driving and towing up to 7,700 lbs when properly equipped, all while offering better maneuverability than its full-size counterparts. The Canyon’s blend of diesel capability and smaller footprint makes it a top-rated choice in the used mid-size diesel truck segment.
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Ford Diesel Trucks: Built Ford Tough with Powerful Diesel Options
Ford’s “Built Ford Tough” slogan rings true, especially when it comes to their Super Duty diesel trucks. Known for their immense power and towing capacity, used Ford diesel trucks are highly sought after.
1. 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty: Uncompromising Power and Capability
Side view of a blue 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty diesel truck parked on a city street.
The 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a powerhouse, offering an optional 6.7L Power Stroke diesel engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. While also offering a powerful gasoline engine, the diesel option is the clear choice for maximum towing and payload capacity. Owners consistently rate this truck highly for its fuel efficiency (for its class), comfortable interior, and confident handling. The F-350 Super Duty is a top-rated used diesel truck for those who demand the ultimate in capability and performance. Used prices can vary widely, from around $26,000 to over $87,000 depending on trim, options, and condition.
2. 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty: Power Stroke Torque Monster
The 2008 Ford F-250 Super Duty is celebrated for its 6.4L Power Stroke engine, featuring a compound-turbocharged design that produces 350 horsepower and a massive 650 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine delivers exceptional low-end grunt, making it ideal for heavy towing and hauling. The 2008 F-250 Super Duty is a testament to Ford’s commitment to diesel power and remains a popular choice for those seeking a robust and capable used diesel truck.
3. 2020 Ford Super Duty (F-250/F-350): Modern Power Stroke Refinement
Side view of a blue 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty diesel truck parked on a city street.
The 2020 Ford Super Duty lineup (including both F-250 and F-350 models) is highly regarded for its overall engine lineup, with the 6.7L Power Stroke V8 diesel being a standout. This engine delivers 475 horsepower and a staggering 1,050 lb.-ft. of torque (in high-output versions), making it one of the most powerful diesel engines available in a pickup truck. The 2020 Super Duty’s combination of raw power, refined technology, and comfortable ride solidifies its place as a top-rated used diesel truck.
4. 2014 Ford F-Series Super Duty: Punchy and Capable 6.7L Diesel
The 2014 Ford F-Series Super Duty (again encompassing F-250 and F-350 models) is praised for its potent 6.7L turbodiesel V8 engine. This engine delivers a robust 400 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque, providing ample power for towing and hauling. The 2014 models offer a good balance of capability and features, making them a well-rounded and highly-rated used diesel truck option.
5. 2010 Ford F-250: High-Performance 6.4L Power Stroke
Side view of a blue 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty diesel truck parked on a city street.
The 2010 Ford F-250, while potentially requiring more diligent maintenance due to its 6.4L Power Stroke engine’s complexity, offers impressive performance for its age. This engine, with its Siemens common-rail injection system, can be tuned to produce significant horsepower gains, sometimes reaching the 550-600 HP range with modifications. For those seeking a powerful and potentially modifiable used diesel truck, the 2010 F-250 is worth considering, but be sure to factor in potential maintenance considerations.
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Chevrolet Diesel Trucks: Reliable Workhorses with a Strong Legacy
Chevrolet’s Silverado HD diesel trucks are known for their dependability and work-ready nature, building upon a long and respected truck heritage.
1. 2007 Chevrolet 3500HD: Improved Refinement and Durability
Front quarter view of a silver 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD diesel truck parked on a dealership lot.
The 2007 Chevrolet 3500HD marked a significant improvement over the previous year, boasting enhanced build quality and a more refined cabin. While offering a capable standard 6.0L V8 gasoline engine, the optional 6.6L Duramax turbodiesel V8 is the star of the show. Owners and experts alike praise the 2007 3500HD for its stability, powerful engine options, and improved overall quality compared to earlier models. Used prices for well-maintained models can range from approximately $10,000 to $16,000, making it a value-packed option.
2. 2006 Chevrolet 3500HD: The Modifiable Duramax LBZ
The 2006 Chevrolet 3500HD is a sought-after model year due to its “hot rod” potential, stemming from its 6.6L Duramax LBZ V8 engine. This engine is particularly desirable because it is the last of GM’s “pre-emissions” Duramax engines, meaning it lacks the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) required on later models. This makes the LBZ engine more easily modified for increased power and performance, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a capable and customizable used diesel truck.
3. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Efficient and Capable Modern Diesel
Front quarter view of a silver 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD diesel truck parked on a dealership lot.
Mirroring its GMC Sierra 1500 sibling, the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 also features the impressive 3.0L Duramax diesel engine paired with a 10-speed Allison automatic transmission. This combination delivers a responsive 277 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque, providing a strong and efficient driving experience. The Silverado 1500 diesel is a top-rated choice for those seeking a modern, fuel-efficient, and capable light-duty diesel truck.
4. 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500: Torque-Rich Diesel Powerhouse
The 2012 Chevy Silverado 2500 offers a larger 6.6L diesel V8 engine that produces a substantial 397 horsepower and 765 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine provides exceptional towing capability, rated up to 23,000 lbs. The 2012 Silverado 2500 is a robust and capable used diesel truck well-suited for demanding towing and hauling tasks.
5. 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500: Fuel-Efficient and Well-Rounded Diesel
Front quarter view of a silver 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD diesel truck parked on a dealership lot.
The 2019 Chevy Silverado 1500, while slightly preceding the 2020 model, also features a 3.0L inline-six turbocharged diesel engine. This engine delivers 277 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque while achieving impressive fuel economy figures, up to 33 MPG on the highway. The 2019 Silverado 1500 diesel strikes a compelling balance of fuel efficiency and capability, making it a highly-rated used option.
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Dodge Ram Diesel Trucks: Rugged Capability and Cummins Reliability
Ram trucks (formerly Dodge Ram) are renowned for their ruggedness and, in particular, the legendary Cummins diesel engines known for their longevity and power.
1. 2007 Dodge Ram 2500: Cummins Power and Value
Front view of a red 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 is a top-rated used diesel truck, offering a compelling combination of Cummins power and value. This model year introduced a new 6.7L Cummins turbodiesel engine, replacing the previous 5.9L, delivering 350 horsepower and 650 lb.-ft. of torque. Owners consistently praise the 2007 Ram 2500 for its comfortable ride, robust towing capability, and the renowned reliability of the Cummins engine, all at a generally accessible price point in the used market. Expect to find prices averaging around $21,000 for this model.
2. 2006 Dodge Ram 2500HD & 3500HD: Heavy-Duty Facelift with Increased Capacity
The 2006 Dodge Ram 2500HD and 3500HD models represent the third generation of Ram Heavy Duty trucks, receiving a significant facelift and improvements in cargo space. These models are known for their robust construction and the availability of the Cummins diesel engine, making them solid choices for heavy-duty work.
3. 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty: Highly Capable Cummins Power
Front view of a red 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2010 Dodge Ram 2500 Heavy Duty is recognized as a highly capable diesel truck, powered by a 6.7L Cummins I-6 engine that produces 370 horsepower and 800 lb.-ft. of torque. This engine provides exceptional towing capacity (up to 17,500 pounds) and payload capacity (up to 5,000 pounds), making the 2010 Ram 2500 HD a top-rated choice for serious work and towing needs.
4. 2020 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty: The 1,000 lb.-ft. Torque Milestone
The 2020 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty is a landmark truck, being the first to reach the 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque mark in a diesel pickup. Equipped with a high-output 6.7L I-6 Cummins diesel engine producing 400 horsepower and over 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque, the 2020 Ram 3500 HD is a true towing and hauling champion, earning MotorTrend’s 2020 Truck of the Year award. For those seeking the pinnacle of diesel power and capability in a used truck, the 2020 Ram 3500 HD is a top contender.
5. 2012 Dodge Ram: Affordable and Capable Cummins Diesel
Front view of a red 2007 Dodge Ram 2500 diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2011 and 2012 Dodge Ram models are well-regarded for their affordability, capability, and relative simplicity compared to newer, more technologically complex trucks. The 2012 Dodge Ram, in particular, features a 6.7L Cummins diesel engine producing 400 horsepower and 1,000 lb.-ft. of torque, along with an integrated exhaust brake feature that enhances towing confidence. This model year offers a strong value proposition for buyers seeking a capable and reliable used diesel truck without the premium price of newer models.
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Toyota Diesel Trucks: Global Reliability, Limited US Diesel Options
Toyota trucks are globally renowned for their reliability and longevity. However, diesel options in the US market are less common, primarily found in older models or gasoline engines marketed as “diesel-like” in torque delivery.
1. 2022 Toyota Tundra Diesel (Hypothetical/Future Model): Anticipated Diesel Power
Front view of a silver 2022 Toyota Tundra diesel truck parked on a paved road.
It’s important to note that as of the current knowledge cut-off, the 2022 Toyota Tundra in the US market does not offer a traditional diesel engine. The original article mentions a “2022 Toyota Tundra Diesel” with specific horsepower and torque figures. This may be referencing a diesel engine available in Tundra models sold in other international markets. If a diesel Tundra were available in the US used market, and delivered the mentioned performance and fuel economy (18 MPG combined, 32 MPG highway), it would likely be highly rated due to Toyota’s reputation for reliability. However, buyers in the US market should be aware that diesel Tundras are not readily available.
2. 2020 Toyota Tundra 3UR-FE: Gasoline V8 with Truck-Like Torque
The 2020 Toyota Tundra, while not diesel, is included here as it features Toyota’s robust i-FORCE 5.7L DOHC V8 gasoline engine. This engine delivers 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of torque, providing truck-like performance and towing capability. For buyers considering the Tundra for its reliability and capability, the 2020 model with the 5.7L V8 is a highly-rated option, even though it’s not a diesel.
3. 2007 Toyota Tundra: Early Model Strength and Performance
Front view of a silver 2022 Toyota Tundra diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2007 Toyota Tundra marked a significant leap in size and capability for the Tundra lineup. It featured a powerful 5.7L V8 gasoline engine (similar to the 2020 model) with high tow ratings and strong performance. The 2007 Tundra is recognized for its acceleration, equipment, and overall performance, making it a solid and reliable used truck option, albeit gasoline-powered in the US market.
4. 2022 Toyota Tundra I-FORCE MAX: Hybrid Power with Truck Capability
The 2022 Toyota Tundra I-FORCE MAX is Toyota’s foray into hybrid pickups. While not diesel, it features a hybrid powertrain that delivers impressive torque (585 lb.-ft.) and horsepower (437 HP), along with a towing capacity of up to 11,450 lbs. This hybrid Tundra offers a unique blend of power, efficiency (compared to traditional gasoline trucks), and Toyota reliability, making it a noteworthy option to consider in the used market if fuel economy is a priority alongside capability.
5. 2021 Toyota Tundra SR5: Proven V8 Power and Toyota Reliability
Front view of a silver 2022 Toyota Tundra diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2021 Toyota Tundra SR5, like other models in this Toyota section, is gasoline-powered but included for its truck capabilities. It features the proven 5.7L V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 lb.-ft. of torque, combined with Toyota’s renowned reliability. For buyers prioritizing long-term dependability and V8 power in a used truck, the 2021 Tundra SR5 is a highly-rated choice, keeping in mind it’s a gasoline engine.
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Nissan Diesel Trucks: Value and Cummins Diesel in the Titan XD
Nissan trucks, while having a smaller market share than the “Big Three,” offer compelling value and, in the case of the Titan XD, Cummins diesel power.
1. 2016 Nissan Titan XD: Cummins Diesel Value Proposition
Front view of a dark gray 2016 Nissan Titan XD diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2016 Nissan Titan XD stands out in the used diesel truck market for its combination of Cummins diesel power and competitive pricing. Equipped with a 5.0L V8 turbodiesel engine built by Cummins, the Titan XD delivers a solid balance of performance and capability, bridging the gap between light-duty and heavy-duty trucks. Owners often praise the Titan XD for its engine, ride quality, and towing capabilities, making it a top-rated used diesel truck for buyers seeking Cummins reliability at a potentially lower price point than comparable heavy-duty models from other brands.
2. 2017 Nissan Titan XD: Refined Cummins Diesel Performance
The 2017 Nissan Titan XD continues the successful formula of the 2016 model, featuring the 5.0L Cummins diesel engine, now producing 310 horsepower and 555 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2017 Titan XD offers refined Cummins diesel performance and a comfortable ride, further solidifying its position as a value-oriented and highly-rated used diesel truck option.
3. 2015 Nissan Titan: Gasoline V8 Reliability and Value
Front view of a dark gray 2016 Nissan Titan XD diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2015 Nissan Titan, while gasoline-powered, is included here as it is ranked highly for its overall reliability, performance, and value in the used truck market. Featuring a 5.6L V8 gasoline engine, the 2015 Titan offers respectable towing capacity (up to 9,500 lbs) and a reputation for fewer consumer complaints compared to some other model years. For buyers open to gasoline power and prioritizing reliability and value, the 2015 Titan is a top-rated used truck option.
4. 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro 4X: Modern Mid-Size Gasoline Power
The 2022 Nissan Frontier Pro 4X represents a significant update for the Frontier mid-size pickup. While gasoline-powered, its 3.8L V6 engine delivers a robust 310 horsepower and a smooth driving experience. The Frontier Pro 4X is a capable and well-equipped mid-size truck, making it a go-to choice in its segment, although diesel is not an option.
5. 2020 Nissan Frontier Pro 4X: Updated V6 and Transmission
Front view of a dark gray 2016 Nissan Titan XD diesel truck parked on a paved road.
The 2020 Nissan Frontier Pro 4X introduced a new 3.8L V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and paired with a new 9-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain update improved the Frontier’s performance and refinement. While still gasoline-powered, the 2020 Frontier Pro 4X is a capable and updated mid-size truck option in the used market.
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Jeep Diesel Trucks: Unique Diesel Options in Gladiator and Wrangler
Jeep, traditionally known for SUVs, has entered the pickup truck market with the Gladiator, offering unique diesel options that combine off-road prowess with truck capability. Diesel Wranglers, while less common in the US, also exist and offer a different take on diesel power.
1. 2021 Jeep Gladiator: Diesel Torque and Jeep Capability
Front view of a green 2021 Jeep Gladiator diesel truck driving on a rocky off-road trail.
The 2021 Jeep Gladiator is a standout in the used diesel truck market, offering a unique blend of Jeep’s legendary off-road capability with diesel power. Equipped with a 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine, the Gladiator delivers 260 horsepower and a robust 442 lb.-ft. of torque. This diesel engine enhances the Gladiator’s towing and payload capacity while maintaining Jeep’s off-road prowess. Owners appreciate the Gladiator’s reliability, technology, and the added torque of the diesel engine, making it a top-rated used diesel truck for adventurous buyers.
2. 2020 Jeep Gladiator: EcoDiesel Return for Off-Road Performance
The 2020 Jeep Gladiator marked the return of a diesel option to the Gladiator lineup with its 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine. This engine provides 260 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque, significantly enhancing the Gladiator’s off-road performance and towing capability. The 2020 Gladiator EcoDiesel is a highly-rated used option for those seeking a capable and unique diesel pickup with exceptional off-road credentials.
3. 2022 Jeep Gladiator: Diesel Efficiency and Torque Advantage
Front view of a green 2021 Jeep Gladiator diesel truck driving on a rocky off-road trail.
The 2022 Jeep Gladiator continues to offer the powerful and efficient 3.0L EcoDiesel V6 engine. This engine provides a torque advantage over the gasoline V6 option (442 lb.-ft. vs. 269 lb.-ft.) and improved combined EPA fuel economy ratings (24 mpg vs. 22 mpg). The 2022 Gladiator EcoDiesel remains a top-rated choice for buyers seeking a unique, capable, and relatively fuel-efficient used diesel truck with Jeep’s signature open-air driving experience.
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Honorable Mentions: Jeep Wrangler Diesel SUVs
While the Gladiator is Jeep’s primary diesel truck offering, some Jeep Wrangler SUV models also feature diesel engines, offering a different body style with diesel power.
2019 Jeep Wrangler JL: This 4-door Wrangler JL model offered a 3.0L V6 VM motor diesel engine, shared with some Ram 1500 EcoDiesel models. This engine delivers 260 horsepower and 442 lb.-ft. of torque and is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission tuned for high-torque applications.
2018 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JL: The 2018 Wrangler Unlimited JL offered a range of engine options, including gasoline engines, but diesel options may also be found in the used market in certain regions or configurations. While specific diesel engine details for the 2018 Wrangler Unlimited JL in the US market may be limited, it’s worth researching if you are interested in a diesel-powered Jeep SUV.
Finding Your Best Rated Used Diesel Truck
Choosing the best rated used diesel truck depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider factors like towing requirements, payload capacity, desired fuel economy, budget, and brand preference. This guide provides a starting point for your research, highlighting top-rated models across various manufacturers and model years.
Remember to thoroughly inspect any used truck before purchase, checking for maintenance history, signs of wear and tear, and having a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. With careful research and inspection, you can find a top-rated used diesel truck that delivers years of reliable service and powerful performance.
