2020 Heavy-Duty Diesel Truck And Van Buyer's Guide

Four-Digit Torque Is Here

WELL, EVERYONE, the day has finally come: 1,000 lb-ft of torque can be had straight off the showroom floor, and two out of the three ½-ton pickups achieve an astonishing 30-plus-mpg rating from the EPA (one is pending but likely to hit that number as well). For 2020, there is a diesel-powered pickup truck for nearly every possible experience level. From the Chevrolet and GMC trucks that are light on driver assistance technology but big on towing capability to the Ford and Ram trucks that heap on the features, this year’s diesel segment is more capable and powerful than ever before. Vans have become even more efficient, and, in what we think is a positive sign of things to come, Ford introduces a new four-cylinder diesel engine in the Transit. Diesel is now more competitive, and the vehicles you have to choose from are better than years past.

We detail changes for the 2020 model year in the following pages, in addition to an overview of strengths and weaknesses for each truck and van. Whether you’re looking to tow or just want to experience the superior driveability and economy of a diesel-powered vehicle, 2020 is a great year to get out and drive something.

FORD SUPER DUTY F-250/F-350/F-450

WITH THE HEAVY-duty pickup segment really heating up, Ford is upping the ante with the ’20 Super Duty, which includes the F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks. The Super Duty with the 6.7L Power Stroke V-8 is its most powerful and capable iteration yet, and to top it off, it’s equipped with an all-new 10-speed automatic transmission.