With all of the recent buzz about hybrids and electric vehicles, be careful not to overlook the comeback of the diesel. Diesel powered coupes and sedans took a long hiatus, but they are back and they have undergone drastic developments. The introduction of ultra-low sulfur clean diesel fuels, more efficient turbochargers and intercoolers, and direct fuel injection has yielded the automotive industry a viable ally in the fight for fuel conservation.
Despite the added initial cost of some diesel cars, most are economically sensible. The EPA estimated average improvement in fuel mileage, over their gasoline powered counterparts, is approximately thirty-percent, but that is assuming that only forty-five percent of the miles are driven on the highway. If you live and work near the highway, depending upon the length of you commute, you are likely to drive a greater percentage of highway miles, thus you should see improvements in that estimate; making the diesel option an even greater idea.
In addition to the fuel savings, the resale value of the typical diesel powered car is greater than either the hybrid, electric, or gasoline powered version of the same model. Statistically, diesel powered cars are five-percent more valuable than gasoline powered models when it is time to resell them.
When it comes to the hybrid and electric models; diesel wins hands down.
• Diesel fuel is available nearly anywhere.
• Diesel powered vehicles are capable of travelling long distances (without a recharge).
• Modern turbocharged diesel cars have the edge in performance over hybrid cars.