This is like opening Pandora’s Box a can of worms that could ignite a firestorm of differing opinions, all revolving around one topic.
Anytime something is labeled as the “all-time best,” disagreements tend to arise almost immediately. That’s just how things work, especially when it comes to discussing anything related to diesel trucks.
When a discussion like this comes up, it’s almost guaranteed that die-hard Dodge Ram and Cummins engine enthusiasts will say: “Anything with a Cummins in it is better than any other truck on the road.”
While we appreciate this passionate sentiment, and we certainly recognize several Cummins-powered trucks in this lineup, it’s important to emphasize that the best diesel pickups extend beyond just Dodge Ram (and post-2010, Ram) models.
Over the past three decades, the Big Three truck manufacturers have produced a wide range of light- and heavy-duty diesel-powered pickups, many of which deserve to be called the best.
However, when considering what makes a truck truly great, performance attributes like fuel economy, towing capacity, and payload limits are universally regarded as the most significant factors.
The trucks featured in this list span from the first-generation Dodge Rams of the late 1980s to modern-day Ford, GM, and Ram models that are capable of towing over 35,000 pounds while achieving nearly 30 mpg in fuel efficiency.
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So, whether you’re searching for a brand-new diesel truck or a reliable older model, here are the ten trucks that stand out as the all-time best:
1. 1989-1993 Dodge Ram D-250 and D-350
The first-generation Dodge Ram pickup remains a timeless classic. Equipped with the legendary 5.9-liter 12-valve Cummins engine, which produced 160 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, these trucks are still widely available today.
Four-wheel-drive models, in particular, continue to see daily use on farms, in oil fields, and beyond. The truck shown in the accompanying photo is actually the very first prototype, developed on a 1985 model.
2. 2003-2008 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500 HD
The third-generation Dodge Ram Heavy Duty trucks are highly regarded, particularly due to the facelift they received in 2006, the impressive High Output 5.9-liter Cummins engine options (producing 305 horsepower and 555 lb-ft of torque in 2002, and increasing to 325 horsepower and 610 lb-ft in 2004), and the substantial expansion of both cargo and cabin space.
Even in stock form, Dodge Ram pickups from this era continue to be exceptionally capable tow vehicles, boasting a 12,000-pound towing capacity.
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3. 2010-2013 Ram 2500 Heavy Duty
The introduction of the 6.7-liter Cummins I-6 diesel engine in 2010 marked a significant upgrade, and by 2013, it was delivering 370 horsepower and 800 lb-ft of torque while also being highly responsive to performance modifications.
This powerhouse allowed the single-rear-wheel Ram truck to achieve an impressive 17,500-pound towing capacity and a 5,000-pound cargo-hauling capability. It offered do-it-all performance in a straightforward and reliable package.
4. 2020 Ram 3500 Heavy Duty
Ram’s 2020 Heavy Duty rightfully earns its place among the all-time-best diesel pickup trucks and was even named MotorTrend’s 2020 Truck of the Year largely due to its groundbreaking 400-horsepower High Output 6.7-liter I-6 Cummins engine.
This powerplant made history as the first diesel engine in a general-use truck to break the four-digit torque barrier, producing an impressive 1,000 lb-ft.
Paired with an Aisin six-speed automatic transmission, this engine was housed in a chassis that had undergone extensive refinements the previous year.
The result? One of the most capable workhorses on the road, boasting a 35,100-pound towing capacity and a 7,680-pound payload rating.
5. 1999-2003 Super Duty
While enthusiasts of Ford’s 1994-1997 “old-body style” pickups might be disappointed by this pick, we believe the final generation of 7.3-liter Power Stroke V-8-powered F-250s and F-350s deserves its place on this list.
Though not the most powerful engine producing 235 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque the legendary “seven-three” is built to go the distance.
Its robust internal components and oil-based fueling system contribute to a lifespan that can easily exceed 500,000 miles with proper maintenance.
The 7.3-liter Super Duty truly embodies the “Built Ford Tough” slogan, continuing to prove its reliability on construction sites, at campgrounds, and even as a daily driver.
Thanks to front-suspension improvements, these trucks offer a smoother, more maneuverable ride than their OBS predecessors.
In an era dominated by high-tech diesel engines, these classic workhorses remain reliable performers that will stand the test of time.
6. 2008-2010 Super Duty
While the 6.0-liter Power Stroke V-8-powered 2003-2007 Super Duty has its strengths, its well-known issues keep it from making this list of all-time bests.
Instead, the 2008-2010 F-250 and F-350 take the spotlight, thanks to their 6.4-liter Power Stroke engine.
This compound-turbocharged powerplant delivers 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, making it a solid performer straight from the factory.
This generation also saw a notable increase in size, with larger dimensions that enhanced its capability for hot-shot towing and hauling heavy payloads.
Furthermore, the 6.4-liter Power Stroke has proven to be one of the best Ford diesel engines for modification, as demonstrated by standout performances from Tim Jahn (Class of 2017), Garrett Osen (Class of 2018), and Darin Dutton (Class of 2019) in the Diesel Power Challenge.
These trucks continue to be a top choice for enthusiasts looking to push their diesel builds to the next level.
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7. 2020 Super Duty
When it comes to modern diesel power, the third-generation 6.7-liter Power Stroke V-8 in Ford’s 2020 Super Duty stands as the dominant force among the latest Big Three heavy-duty pickups.
Producing 450 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque, this powerhouse is paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission, enabling properly equipped F-350 models to achieve an impressive 37,000-pound towing capacity.
8. 2006-2007 Chevrolet/GMC 2500HD and 3500HD
The 2006-2007 Chevrolet and GMC 2500HD and 3500HD pickups earn their place on this list not only for their rugged workhorse capabilities but also for the impressive performance potential of their 6.6-liter Duramax LBZ V-8 engine.
Producing 350 horsepower and 650 lb-ft of torque, this powerplant is the last of GM’s pre-emissions diesels, meaning it lacks the federally mandated DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter).
As a result, these trucks are much easier to modify for enhanced performance, making them a favorite among diesel enthusiasts.
9. 2020 Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra 1500
Surprise! While it’s easy to see why brand-new, heavy-duty diesel pickups dominate this list, you might be wondering how GM’s 6-lug, 1/2-ton models earned their spot among the all-time best.
The answer is simple the 2020 Silverado and Sierra 1500 feature one of the most dynamic powertrain combinations in the segment.
Equipped with a 3.0-liter Duramax engine and a ten-speed Allison automatic transmission, these trucks deliver 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, giving them impressive acceleration and a fun-to-drive experience.
Beyond their strong performance, they excel in overall capability, with the GMC Sierra also offering an upscale, premium feel.
Whether hauling, towing, or just enjoying the ride, these diesel-powered 1/2-ton pickups bring a unique blend of power and drivability to the table.
10. 2020 Chevrolet/GMC 2500HD and 3500HD
Just like their half-ton counterparts, the heavy-duty, current-generation Chevrolet and GMC diesel pickups have earned a spot among the all-time best, primarily due to a powertrain upgrade that significantly enhances performance.
At the heart of these trucks is the 6.6-liter Duramax L5P engine, delivering 445 horsepower and 910 lb-ft of torque.
This powerhouse is paired with Allison’s new 10L1000 ten-speed automatic transmission, a combination that ensures smooth power delivery and exceptional towing capability.
With this setup, a regular-cab dually configuration can confidently tow up to 35,500 pounds, making these trucks some of the most capable haulers on the road.