In the realm of heavy-duty pickups, there's a sizable faction of buyers who consider a diesel engine the only legitimate source of propulsion. The term 'gasser,' applied to gasoline-burning trucks, carries a whiff of derision, often associated with U-Haul rentals and state-owned DOT trucks in refrigerator white dropping cones on the highway. However, both gas- and diesel-powered heavy-duty pickups have come a long way, to the point that an entry-level gas truck might match the capabilities of a diesel from a generation or two back, and a diesel offers the capability of a CSX freight train.
The Ford F-series Super Duty trucks are a case in point. When tested, high-output 2023 F-250 diesel 4x4s have demonstrated impressive performance, earning titles like quickest diesel pickup ever tested. 3-liter V-8 F-250, offer respectable power and weight advantages.
If towing is a priority, there isn't a huge delta between the two engines in terms of capacity. The tow rating for the F-250's four-wheel-drive crew-cab format maxes out at 18,200 pounds for gas engines and 22,000 pounds for diesels with conventional trailers. Additionally, the maximum combined vehicle weight rating for gas trucks is 26,000 pounds, while diesel trucks can handle up to 26,001 pounds before requiring a commercial driver's license.
3-liter Godzilla engine costs $1500. The price difference between gas and diesel engines is substantial, with the standard-output diesel adding $11,495 to the cost of an F-250 Lariat and the high-output version commanding an extra $13,495 over the base gas engine. With a potential fuel-economy advantage that may never be recouped in terms of savings, buyers must weigh the costs and benefits of each option carefully.
One way to think of this price disparity is as a torque tax – for a given spend, you can have mountains of diesel twist or a long list of luxury options to enhance your trucking experience. 3-liter V-8 might be the logical choice for those who prioritize power and capability over fuel efficiency and cost savings.
The 2026 Ford F-250's 7.3-liter V-8 engine offers a compelling balance of power, capability, and weight advantages that may make it an attractive option for buyers who prioritize heavy-duty hauling and towing. However, the significant price difference between gas and diesel engines must be carefully considered in terms of overall cost and operating expenses.
