Diesel Market Shrinking for Light-Duty Trucks

For 2025, the diesel landscape for half-ton pickups is rapidly changing. Only the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and its GMC Sierra sibling continue to offer a diesel engine option, making them standouts in the segment. The Duramax 3.0L I6 turbo-diesel brings an impressive 305 horsepower and 495 lb-ft of torque, with segment-leading highway fuel efficiency up to 29 MPG and a best-in-class maximum towing capacity of 13,300 lbs. Rivals like Ford, Ram, Toyota, and Nissan have exited the light-duty diesel market, making the Duramax a unique find for those who need diesel power in a half-ton pickup.

Heavy Duty Diesels Remain Strong

Looking for more muscle? Heavy-duty diesel trucks are more capable than ever. Ford Super Duty, GM HD (Silverado & Sierra), and Ram HD diesels continue advancing in power, torque, and hauling capacity. The latest Ford Super Duty diesel delivers up to 500 horsepower and a staggering 1,200 lb-ft of torque, while both GM and Ram’s heavy-duty offerings also feature substantial performance gains this year. These trucks are a testament to the continued demand for reliable, high-power diesel options for work and play.

Current Industry Trends

The new model year brings bold exterior color options, upgraded infotainment systems, and advanced trailer technology to new pickups. Expect improved connectivity, easier towing setups, and more features aimed at both enthusiasts and commercial truck users. From fleet managers to weekend warriors, today's trucks are more tech-forward and customizable than ever, keeping the segment exciting despite the narrowing diesel options in the half-ton class.

Tips & How-To

Upgrade Your Truck’s Front-End Protection:
One simple DIY upgrade is to install a Tough Country Front Replacement Bumper. It can drastically increase to protection to the front of your truck while adding coplanarity rugged styling. Plus with available features such as winch mount, 2" receiver, LED light bars, shackle mounts.... they can make your truck more useful both on and off the road.

Auto-Factual:

Did you know? The Duramax 3.0L diesel in the Silverado 1500 is the last remaining diesel offered in half-ton pickups in North America as of 2025.

Auto Joke:

(however not automatically funny)

Why don't pickup trucks ever panic? Because they always have a tailgate to fall back on!