— Gas vs. Diesel: Which Vehicle is Better?

We live in a world where options exceed needs. There’s a new color, size, shape or version of every new product that enters the marketplace, and it can be overwhelming at times. One of the main perpetrators of this excess of choices is the automobile industry. Deciding on what new car to buy can be the source of some major headaches, but choosing the type of engine you want in your car shouldn’t be.

So then, which type of engine is better; gas or diesel? Truth be told, there’s benefits and downfalls to each of them, and it really boils down to what works best for you and your lifestyle. The first step in making this decision is educating yourself, so let’s go over some of the basics.

Consider the Cost.

Are you more concerned with a lower price tag or long-term savings? While gas vehicles will generally save money both at the dealership and at the pump, there’s something to be said for the fuel efficiency of a diesel engine. After all, better gas mileage means fewer fill-ups. Not buying it? Look at the 2015 Chevy Cruze; its Turbo Diesel engine boasts 46 mpg hwy over the 38 mpg hwy of its 1.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder gas engine.

Of course, when you’re in the market for a new ride, the purchase price is no small matter – and when comparing $26,000.00 gas trucks to their $32,000.00 diesel counterparts, it might be harder to root for the long run when your bank account lives in the here and now.

Think Green.

The environment has done a lot for us, so it’s no surprise there’s been a shift toward taking better care of it. Some might even say that being environmentally friendly is the new cool thing to do. That being said, which is the coolest then, diesel or gas?

Talk about motivation – the EPA’s National Clean Diesel Campaign (NCDC) provides funding for projects geared toward reducing harmful emissions from diesel fuel. While there are many known health and environmental hazards associated with diesel exhaust (think asthma and acid rain), the push for higher standards has resulted in cleaner diesel engines than ever before.

Don’t worry, gas enthusiasts, we haven’t forgotten about you. Between the use of reformulated gasoline (RFG) and the Tier 2 Gasoline Sulfur program, there has been a noticeable reduction in smog and air pollution levels in recent years. In fact, according to the EPA, those vehicles that meet Tier 2 emission standards are 77% to 95% cleaner than earlier models. If you think that’s a move in the right direction, consider this: beginning in 2017, the Tier 3 program will implement even more stringent standards.

 

The Verdict.

Which is the better bet? As previously stated, that depends on your personal preference and lifestyle. If you’re a city-dweller keen on instant savings and a quieter ride, sticking with a gas car or truck may be for you. If you’re a traveler with an appreciation for a powerful engine and a more forgiving budget, you might enjoy the pull of a diesel engine. Whichever one you choose, stop by J-Tech on your next joy ride – our Automotive Technology and Diesel Technology programs can train you to keep whichever ride you decide on in tip-top shape.

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