Know the facts….
When it comes to fuel efficiency, diesel engines are often the preferred choice, offering anywhere from 30-50 percent greater fuel economy than comparable gasoline engines.
The benefits don’t stop there.
Diesel fuel is also known to have a higher energy density than gasoline. This translates into the fact that less fuel is required to generate the same power as gas, again improving overall fuel economy. On the highway, diesel engines are far more efficient than gasoline-fueled vehicles primarily because diesel fuel packs more energy than gasoline. A gallon of diesel fuel has up to 30 percent more energy than a gallon of gas, and diesel also provides more torque than gasoline does.
When it comes to cost, diesel fuel is typically about 20 percent more expensive than gasoline. Properly maintained, most diesel vehicles can stay solid on the road for 30 years, an impressive stat. They do, however, require some special care. The reason these engines last longer is because diesel is a light oil and when burned and used as fuel by the vehicle, it lubricates parts of the engine. This means that the life of the engine is then prolonged.
Other benefits come in the form of improved towing capabilities, with diesel again winning out over its gasoline counterparts. This is the reason many heavy-duty trucks use diesel engines. They have the ability to tow and haul heavier loads because diesel vehicles tend to have more torque than gas vehicles.
Diesel’s pluses are also made clear in hot weather, with these engines being a lot more economical compared with cold or cooler weather. There is less friction to overcome so less fuel is required. In addition, the warmer fuel/air compressed mixture ignites easier so less fuel is injected into the cylinders to compensate.
Maintenance of diesel engines is cheaper overall due to the fact that diesel engines have fewer problems than gas engines. However, diesels are more expensive when there is a need for repair. But generally, diesel maintenance will not cost more than for a gasoline powered version, depending on the type of diesel vehicle one has.
From expense to maintenance, the use of diesel can seem to far outweigh gasoline when it comes to benefits. Diesel also generally offers better resale value than gas for those planning on selling their truck.
But they also have a downside
Diesel engines require regular maintenance and higher costs for repair than gas as well as decreased horsepower and less speed. They are also not as smooth and quiet as their gasoline-powered counterparts and environmentally speaking, release carcinogens, nitrous oxides and soot into the air. These engines are sometimes more expensive, as are their mechanics, and come at a higher cost to fill up. Another “con” is that all gas stations do not carry diesel fuels.
Despite the down side, and with notable advantages in mind, especially in the area of fuel efficiency, BMW offers various diesel models, last year (2018) presenting the 320d, X5 xDrive 35d and the 540d. They remain committed to these diesel engines, despite the stigma that surrounds them. Unfortunately, many of these models don’t make it to the United States, but there are some available. The automaker makes clear that diesel engines remain a vital part of their powertrain portfolio for meeting carbon-dioxide emissions globally. Motorists seeking the best in fuel efficiency may consider the choice of equipping their next BMW with a diesel engine.
Here’s more….
BMW X5 xDrive 35d
Considered one of the best when it comes to BMW’s offerings of diesel models, the X5 xDrive 35d is an astonishing car by many measures. It offers fantastic duality, is torquey, punchy and smooth. It is known for excellent performance and luxury. It provides safety and comfort in the form of an SUV, while being incredibly economical, rivaling plug-in hybrid versions.
BMW 320d
This is all about fun and efficiency, all wrapped up in a 3 series. Considered another one of the best diesel cars BMW offers, the 320d is pure fun to drive, with some of the greatest steering, chassis dynamics and personality around. It comes with an incredibly efficient engine that boasts a range that would rival some of the world’s best hybrids. In fact, the 320d can pull 120 mph on the highway, despite its small 2.0 liter diesel engine, and gets from 0-60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. Also, it has the ability to get around 54 mpg. It’s excellent and affordable at the same time!
BMW 540d
Powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged I6 diesel engine, the 540d has become an all-out favorite in the lineup! Considered the best variant of the 5 series sold in the U.S., the 540d is a great combination of luxury, performance and dynamics, while also boasting an incredible cabin. An all-around fantastic car, its engine makes 265 horsepower and 457 lb-ft of torque. It is quick and capable, reaching 0-60 in 4.9 seconds all while returning 36 mph highway, 26 mpg city and 30 mpg combined. Comfortable and fuel-efficient, the 540d also has superb handling. Great performance and diesely torque — you can’t ask for much better!
While the demand for diesels have dwindled, one of the most popular diesel-powered US-spec BMWs have been the X5 SUV. However, plans are to launch this year and next two gasoline variants of this model. Still, BMW has not yet determined whether or not the X5 diesel variant will come to the U.S. market. To reach that decision, the automaker continues to gauge customer preferences and input and will adjust their portfolio accordingly.
When you are ready for your next car purchase, consider the pros and cons of buying Diesel BMWs. Is it a good idea? Is it the engine for you? There is much to contemplate. While most of the diesel offerings have been trucks and heavy vehicles, passenger cars with diesel engines are being produced more and more. If fuel efficiency is your main objective, especially on highway miles, less maintenance and fewer trips to the pump sounds appealing, then this may be your preferred choice!
