Top 10 Diesel Trucks 2024 — Best Overall + Best Value

Direct Answer

For the 2024 model year, the Best Overall diesel truck is the Ford F-250 Super Duty Power Stroke, starting around $44,970, because its 6.7L High-Output V8 pairs a class-leading 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft with up to 22,000 lb of conventional towing and a fresh interior.

The Best Value pick is the Ram 2500 Cummins, starting around $45,250 for a Tradesman, which delivers a legendary 6.7L inline-six Cummins rated at 370 hp and 850 lb-ft plus a comfortable cabin and strong resale for thousands less than a comparably equipped rival.

Below are the ten diesel pickups worth shopping for the 2024 model year, with real MSRPs, engine specs, and towing numbers.

How We Ranked the Top 10

We weighted each truck against the criteria that actually matter to diesel buyers, then cross-checked specs against published reviews and EPA/manufacturer data. Our weighting:

• Towing & torque — 30%: Max conventional and gooseneck/fifth-wheel ratings, lb-ft of torque, and GCWR.
• Reliability & durability — 20%: Long-term engine reputation, powertrain warranty, owner-reported issues.
• Fuel economy — 15%: EPA-rated mpg where available, plus real-world tested figures (HD diesels are not EPA-rated).
• Value & ownership cost — 15%: Starting MSRP, diesel option premium, DEF and maintenance costs.
• Interior & tech — 10%: Cabin materials, infotainment, driver-assist features.
• Resale — 10%: Projected retained value and segment demand.

Sources consulted include TFLtruck, Car and Driver, MotorTrend, Edmunds, Kelley Blue Book, Cars.com, and Pickuptrucks.com, alongside manufacturer specification sheets. We focused strictly on the 2024 model year so this guide stays distinct from later-year buying guides.

1. Ford F-250 Super Duty Power Stroke 🏆 BEST OVERALL

Starting MSRP: $44,970 | Best for: Buyers who want the strongest half-of-an-HD diesel with the newest interior

The 2024 F-250's 6.7L Power Stroke V8 comes in two tunes: a standard-output rated at 475 hp and 1,050 lb-ft, and a High-Output version making a segment-best 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft, both backed by a 10-speed TorqShift automatic. So equipped, the F-250 tows up to 22,000 lb conventionally and 22,700 lb on a gooseneck/fifth-wheel, with payload reaching past 4,000 lb depending on configuration.

The redesigned Super Duty cabin, large available 12-inch screen, and Pro Power Onboard generator give it a tech edge over older rivals, and the Power Stroke has earned a strong durability reputation over its life. It is the most complete heavy-duty diesel package you can buy for 2024.

Pros:

• Class-leading 1,200 lb-ft on the High-Output engine.
• Up to 22,700 lb gooseneck towing.
• Modern cabin and tech, including available 12-inch infotainment.
• Strong dealer network and parts availability.

Cons:

• High-Output engine and tow packages push the price well into luxury-truck territory.
• HD diesels carry no EPA mpg rating, so real-world economy varies widely.

Verdict: The most capable, best-rounded diesel truck for 2024, and our overall winner.

2. Ram 2500 Cummins 💎 BEST VALUE

Starting MSRP: $45,250 | Best for: Buyers who want Cummins durability and ride comfort without overpaying

The 2024 Ram 2500's available 6.7L Cummins turbo-diesel inline-six produces 370 hp and 850 lb-ft, sent through a six-speed automatic. Max conventional towing reaches roughly 19,990 lb, and the available rear coil/air suspension makes it the smoothest-riding HD in the class.

The Cummins name carries enormous brand equity and resale strength, and the cabin remains one of the nicest in the segment even at lower trims. Because a well-equipped Cummins truck can be optioned for thousands less than a comparable High-Output rival while holding its value, the 2500 earns our Best Value nod.

Pros:

• Legendary Cummins inline-six with deep aftermarket and service support.
• Best-in-class ride comfort with available air suspension.
• Strong resale value protects ownership cost.
• Premium interior even on mid-grade trims.

Cons:

• Six-speed automatic feels dated next to 10-speed rivals.
• Torque trails the Ford and GM HD diesels.

Verdict: The smartest money in the heavy-duty diesel aisle for 2024.

3. Ram 3500 Cummins High-Output

Starting MSRP: $46,750 | Best for: Maximum-tow buyers who want the torque king

Step up to the 2024 Ram 3500 and the High-Output 6.7L Cummins delivers a massive 420 hp and 1,075 lb-ft, the most torque of any Cummins-powered pickup. With the right gooseneck setup, the dually 3500 tows up to roughly 37,090 lb, among the highest ratings in the class.

An Aisin-sourced six-speed automatic handles the High-Output engine's loads, and the cabin carries over the 2500's class-leading comfort. For fifth-wheel and gooseneck haulers who measure trailers in the tens of thousands of pounds, this is the truck to beat.

Pros:

• 1,075 lb-ft from the High-Output Cummins.
• Up to roughly 37,090 lb max towing.
• Heavy-duty Aisin transmission built for sustained loads.
• Comfort-focused interior for long hauls.

Cons:

• Six-speed gearbox lacks the ratio spread of 10-speed competitors.
• Dually configuration and HO engine raise the as-tested price sharply.

Verdict: The torque and tow-rating leader among Cummins trucks for 2024.

4. Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD Duramax

Starting MSRP: $48,100 | Best for: Buyers who want big-tow capability with a refined 10-speed Allison

The 2024 Silverado 3500 HD's 6.6L Duramax L5P turbo-diesel V8 makes 470 hp and 975 lb-ft, paired with a 10-speed Allison-branded automatic that gives it a smoother, more responsive feel than the six-speed Rams. Properly configured, the 3500 HD tows up to 36,000 lb, with payload on dually models exceeding 7,000 lb.

GM also extends diesel powertrain coverage to 100,000 miles, a meaningful ownership perk. It is a strong choice for buyers who prioritize transmission refinement and trailering tech such as the available 14-camera system.

Pros:

• 10-speed Allison transmission for smooth, confident shifts.
• Up to 36,000 lb max towing.
• 100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty.
• Excellent trailering camera suite.

Cons:

• Interior plastics trail Ram's in plushness.
• Torque figure sits below the Ford and Ram HO engines.

Verdict: The most refined-driving HD diesel for 2024, especially for frequent towers.

5. GMC Sierra 3500 HD Duramax

Starting MSRP: $50,400 | Best for: Buyers who want Duramax capability with upscale Denali trim

Mechanically a twin to the Silverado 3500 HD, the 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD runs the same 6.6L Duramax rated at 470 hp and 975 lb-ft through the 10-speed Allison automatic. Max towing again reaches 36,000 lb, with a maximum payload around 6,644 lb. Where the Sierra separates itself is interior execution: the AT4 and Denali trims add open-pore wood, premium leather, and the MultiPro tailgate, making it the luxury choice within GM's HD diesel lineup.

Buyers cross-shopping a loaded Ram Limited will find the Denali a worthy rival.

Pros:

• Up to 36,000 lb max towing.
• Upscale Denali and AT4 trims with premium materials.
• MultiPro tailgate adds real-world utility.
• 100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty.

Cons:

• Denali pricing climbs quickly past the as-tested mark.
• Shares the Silverado's middling torque rating.

Verdict: The premium GM heavy-duty diesel, best in upscale trim for 2024.

6. Ford F-350 Super Duty Power Stroke

Starting MSRP: $48,500 | Best for: Serious gooseneck and fifth-wheel haulers who want Ford's HO engine

The 2024 F-350 takes the same 6.7L Power Stroke family, with the High-Output tune at 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft, and adds the chassis to use it. With a single-rear-wheel or dually setup, the F-350 tows up to 25,000 lb conventionally and roughly 27,000 lb on a gooseneck/fifth-wheel, and payload climbs to among the best in class.

The 10-speed automatic and updated cabin carry over from the F-250, so you gain capability without giving up comfort or tech. For buyers whose trailers outgrow a 250-series truck, this is the logical step up.

Pros:

• 500 hp and 1,200 lb-ft High-Output Power Stroke.
• Up to 27,000 lb gooseneck towing.
• Best-in-class available payload on select configs.
• Same modern cabin as the F-250.

Cons:

• Dually models are large and tougher to park daily.
• Loaded HO trucks reach premium pricing fast.

Verdict: Ford's max-capability diesel, ideal for heavy fifth-wheel duty in 2024.

7. Chevrolet Silverado 2500 HD Duramax

Starting MSRP: $46,395 | Best for: Buyers who want HD Duramax muscle at the lowest GM entry price

The 2024 Silverado 2500 HD offers the 6.6L Duramax L5P V8 at 470 hp and 975 lb-ft through the 10-speed Allison, with conventional towing up to about 22,500 lb and stout payload numbers. It is the most affordable way into a GM heavy-duty diesel, and it keeps the same smooth transmission, trailering camera tech, and 100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty as its 3500 sibling.

For owners who tow large but not extreme loads, the 2500 HD hits a sensible sweet spot between capability and price.

Pros:

• Lowest GM HD diesel entry price.
• Smooth 10-speed Allison transmission.
• Up to 22,500 lb conventional towing.
• 100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty.

Cons:

• Cabin materials lag the Ram and Denali.
• Torque trails the Ford and Ram HO engines.

Verdict: The value-minded GM heavy-duty diesel for 2024.

8. GMC Sierra 2500 HD Duramax

Starting MSRP: $48,600 | Best for: Buyers who want the Duramax 2500 with nicer trim options

The 2024 Sierra 2500 HD mirrors the Silverado 2500 HD's 6.6L Duramax at 470 hp and 975 lb-ft and 10-speed Allison, with max conventional towing around 22,500 lb (roughly 20,000 lb in a typical Crew Cab Max Trailering setup). The Sierra adds GMC's upscale touches, MultiPro tailgate, and available AT4 off-road or Denali luxury packaging.

It is the pick for shoppers who want a 2500-class Duramax but prefer GMC's styling and interior over Chevrolet's.

Pros:

• Up to 22,500 lb conventional towing.
• MultiPro tailgate and upscale trims.
• 10-speed Allison refinement.
• 100,000-mile diesel powertrain warranty.

Cons:

• Costs more than the equivalent Silverado.
• Same mid-pack torque rating as other GM HDs.

Verdict: A more upscale take on the 2500-class Duramax for 2024.

9. Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Duramax

Starting MSRP: $54,785 | Best for: Buyers who want strong real-world mpg in a half-ton

The 2024 Silverado 1500's 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline-six makes 305 hp and 495 lb-ft through a 10-speed automatic, and it is one of the only half-ton diesels left on the market. It tows up to about 13,300 lb and, crucially, carries an EPA rating of roughly 23 city / 29 highway / 26 combined mpg in 2WD form — far better economy than any HD diesel.

The 2024 model bumped output from earlier years, sharpening its appeal. For commuters who tow occasionally and want diesel range and efficiency, it is a smart, fuel-sipping choice.

Pros:

• EPA up to 26 mpg combined — best economy here.
• Smooth, quiet inline-six diesel.
• Up to 13,300 lb towing for a half-ton.
• One of the last half-ton diesels available.

Cons:

• Towing and torque trail every HD on this list.
• Diesel option adds cost over the gas V8.

Verdict: The efficiency champion and best half-ton diesel for 2024.

10. GMC Sierra 1500 Duramax

Starting MSRP: $58,085 | Best for: Half-ton diesel buyers who want GMC trim and efficiency

The 2024 Sierra 1500 shares the Silverado's 3.0L Duramax inline-six at 305 hp and 495 lb-ft with a 10-speed automatic, and posts EPA figures around 23 city / 29 highway in 2WD (about 23/27 in 4WD). Towing reaches roughly 13,300 lb, matching its Chevrolet twin. The Sierra adds the MultiPro tailgate, AT4 off-road capability with the Duramax now standard on AT4X, and Denali luxury appointments.

It rounds out our list as the upscale, efficient half-ton diesel for buyers who prefer the GMC badge.

Pros:

• Up to 29 mpg highway in 2WD.
• Refined inline-six diesel with strong range.
• MultiPro tailgate and premium trims.
• Standard Duramax on AT4X off-roader.

Cons:

• Pricier than the comparable Silverado.
• Light-duty tow rating versus the HDs here.

Verdict: The premium, efficient half-ton diesel choice for 2024.

A note on what is no longer available: the Ford F-150 Power Stroke 3.0L diesel was discontinued after the 2021 model year, and the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel ended production in early 2023. As a result, for 2024 the GM 3.0L Duramax is the only diesel offered in a half-ton pickup.

Buyers seeking a small-displacement light-duty diesel must look to the Silverado/Sierra 1500.

Buyer Decision Tree — Which One's Right for You?

What to Look For When Buying a Diesel Truck

• Verify real towing, payload, and GCWR for the exact configuration. Headline numbers assume a specific cab, bed, axle, and tow package; the truck on the lot may be rated lower. Always check the door-jamb sticker and the towing guide.
• Budget for DEF and emissions maintenance. Modern diesels use Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) and have particulate filters; plan for DEF refills and the occasional emissions-system service so the truck stays compliant and reliable.
• Account for the diesel price premium. The diesel option can add several thousand dollars over a gas engine, plus diesel fuel often costs more per gallon. You recoup it through torque, towing, longevity, and resale — but only if you actually tow.
• Matters less than the marketing implies: peak horsepower bragging rights. For towing, torque, transmission gearing, cooling capacity, and GCWR matter far more than the highest hp figure. A truck with slightly less power but better gearing and cooling can tow more comfortably than a higher-hp rival.

FAQ

Which 2024 diesel truck tows the most? The Ram 3500 Cummins High-Output leads with roughly 37,090 lb maximum towing, followed closely by the GM 3500 HD and Ford F-350 ratings.

Is the Ford or Cummins diesel more reliable? Both the 6.7L Power Stroke and the 6.7L Cummins have strong long-term reputations. The Cummins inline-six has the deepest aftermarket and brand following; the Power Stroke counters with the most power and the newest cabin for 2024.

Are there any half-ton diesel trucks for 2024? Yes, but only from GM. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 offer the 3.0L Duramax inline-six. The Ford F-150 diesel and Ram 1500 EcoDiesel were both discontinued before 2024.

What fuel economy can I expect from a 2024 diesel truck? The half-ton 3.0L Duramax is EPA-rated up to about 26 mpg combined. Heavy-duty diesels are not EPA-rated, but real-world figures typically land in the mid-teens unloaded and lower while towing.

How much more does the diesel option cost? Depending on brand and trim, the diesel engine adds roughly $9,000 to $12,000 over the base gas engine, before tow packages. Factor in higher fuel and DEF costs against the towing and resale benefits.

Do diesel trucks hold their value better? Generally yes. Cummins-powered Rams and Duramax/Power Stroke HDs tend to retain strong resale value, which offsets part of the diesel option premium over time.

Bottom Line

For 2024, the Ford F-250 Power Stroke is the Best Overall diesel truck thanks to its 500 hp / 1,200 lb-ft High-Output engine, deep towing capability, and modern cabin, all from a starting $44,970. The Ram 2500 Cummins is the Best Value at about $45,250, blending Cummins durability, class-leading ride comfort, and strong resale.

Buyers who tow extreme loads should look at the Ram 3500 HO, GM 3500 HD, or F-350, while commuters who want efficiency should choose the Silverado or Sierra 1500 Duramax. Match the truck to your real trailer weight and DEF/fuel budget, and any pick on this list will serve for years.

Sources

• TFLtruck — 2024 Chevy Silverado HD Duramax real-world testing: https://tfltruck.com/2023/06/video-the-epa-doesnt-want-you-to-know-the-mpg-of-the-2024-chevy-silverado-hd-duramax-lets-do-a-denver-100-loop/
• Edmunds — 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Diesel: https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/silverado-1500/2024/diesel/
• Edmunds — 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel: https://www.edmunds.com/gmc/sierra-1500/2024/diesel/
• Edmunds — 2024 Ram 2500: https://www.edmunds.com/ram/2500/2024/
• Kelley Blue Book — 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD: https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/silverado-3500-hd-crew-cab/2024/
• Kelley Blue Book — 2024 Ford F-250: https://www.kbb.com/ford/f250/2024/
• CarBuzz — 2024 Ram 2500 pricing and specs: https://carbuzz.com/cars/ram/2500/2024/
• Cars.com — 2024 Silverado 1500 ZR2 diesel real-world MPG: https://www.cars.com/articles/what-mpg-does-the-2024-chevrolet-silverado-1500-zr2-diesel-get-in-real-world-driving-476592/
• Cummins — 6.7L engine for Ram 2500 and 3500 (2024): https://www.cummins.com/en-na/engines/pickup-truck/67l-engine-ram-2500-and-3500-2024
• JD Power — Ford F-150 diesel discontinuation: https://www.jdpower.com/automotive-news/ford-f-150-diesel-succumbs-to-cancel-culture
• SlashGear — Why the Ram 1500 EcoDiesel was discontinued: https://www.slashgear.com/1844432/ram-1500-ecodiesel-discontinued-reason/

*Diesel truck review — diesel truck reviews, rating, best diesel truck 2024, and a review of the top diesel pickup picks for buyers.*