The automobile is continuously evolving. The gasoline engine in the first ever car was a one-cylinder, two-stroke engine. Nowadays, some vehicles have as many as 12 cylinders. Diesel engines were created at around the same time as gas engines, but because of their distinct differences, diesel’s place in history took an alternate road. Interestingly, the first electric and hybrid electric cars were built in the same decade, the 1890s, with gasoline and diesel engines.
You might argue that since these vehicles all played a role in the birth of the automobile, the domination of the gas engine in the industry today was the best option. However, the world wants greener, more fuel-efficient options, which is causing the popularity of EVs and hybrid engines to rise. Some say that diesel will soon go the way of the dinosaur, and the gas engine isn’t too far behind.
Is any of this true, and if so, why? Unfortunately, you won’t find a simple answer as to which powertrain prevails over the other. We didn’t, but we thought we’d share what we found to help you to better understand the different powertrain options.
EV vs. Hybrid vs. Gas vs. Diesel Powertrain Differences
2022 Toyota Prius Prime Being Charged
Diesel engines burn less fuel than gasoline engines and use a compression ignition system to ignite the diesel fuel. Diesel engines are stronger because of the compression ignition, which makes them more durable and long-lasting. A diesel powertrain uses an exhaust gas recirculation system to capture unburned particulates and return them to the cylinders. Diesel engines produce much higher torque numbers, which makes them ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads over long distances.
Gasoline engines burn more fuel than diesel engines and use a spark ignition system to ignite the gasoline. Manufacturers don’t have to use a heavier engine construction to support the ignition, which makes them less durable than a diesel engine. Still, you can achieve significant power numbers with a gas powertrain when towing and hauling heavy loads. Traditionally, gas is more expensive than diesel, but recently, the price of diesel has surpassed gasoline. Despite this, the efficiency of diesel still makes it a cheaper alternative to gas.
The hybrid gas powertrain consumes less gas than straight gas engines and incorporates an electric motor into the system to provide additional power. Some hybrid powertrain cars, usually plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), can operate in electric-only mode. A PHEV has a larger battery than regular hybrid vehicles, which gives them a more extended driving range than electric-only power. This configuration provides significant fuel savings over straight gas engines.
EVs don’t burn gas or diesel. Instead, electricity powers them. The EV powertrain consists of an electric motor or motors and a single gearbox to distribute the power, which makes it a much smaller unit. You need a significantly larger battery pack to provide enough power to drive long distances. Most EVs have a top driving range of 200 miles on a single charge, and newer models achieve as much as 300–400 miles.
Electricity is cheaper than gasoline. However, electricity production predominantly uses fossil fuels and could offset any perceived green benefits. Opponents of EVs argue that EV batteries use rare earth materials that have a limited supply, and after the batteries no longer hold the charge, it is challenging to dispose of them properly.
Pros and Cons of EV, Hybrid, Gas, and Diesel Powertrains
Like we said earlier, there’s no simple answer. In many cases, how you drive has a significant impact on efficiency and performance, and your commute factors into which powertrain might suit you best. We will list each of the pros and cons below to help you to decide.
Diesel Powertrain Pros
- More efficient than gasoline.
- Provides higher torque for towing and hauling.
- Durable construction, which lasts longer with fewer repairs.
- Reliable refueling network.
- Bio-diesel fuel alternatives may offer better economy and less pollution.
Diesel Powertrain Cons
- Lower horsepower than gas and electric vehicles.
- Noisier than other vehicles.
- More pollution than other vehicles.
- Higher cost of repairs.
Gasoline Powertrain Pros
- More horsepower than diesel engines.
- Reliable refueling network.
- Lower cost for repairs.
Gasoline Powertrain Cons
- Traditionally higher fuel costs.
- More frequent repairs and maintenance.
Hybrid Powertrain Pros
- Better fuel efficiency.
- Quieter engines.
- Tax incentives offer additional savings.
Hybrid Powertrain Cons
- More expensive to purchase than gas-only vehicles.
EV Powertrain Pros
- Lower fuel costs vs. gas and diesel.
- Exceptional power on demand.
- Higher torque output.
- Lightweight and quiet.
- Zero emissions.
- Tax incentives offer additional savings.
EV Powertrain Cons
- Limited driving range.
- Its smaller refueling network requires more planning for long-distance travel.
- Fossil fuels used to produce electricity may offset any green benefits.
- EV batteries may present disposal problems.
The Impact of Your Driving Habits
Your driving habits impact your vehicle’s performance, regardless of the powertrain. For example, if you drive for an hour in the city with lots of stop-and-go traffic, you’ll use more fuel than if you were to drive for an hour on the freeway at cruising speeds. Those drivers with a so-called “lead foot” use more fuel than drivers who observe the speed limit.
Electric vehicles have a range of 200 miles or more. However, if you use other electrical systems while driving, these systems deplete your EV battery and lower your range. For instance, drivers in the Florida summer heat use their air conditioner to keep them cool, but this drains the battery. New England drivers need to use their heater and window defroster for those cold winter months.
The Winner Is…
We’re not sure that any powertrain wins or loses. Ultimately, it comes down to what you need from your vehicle. An EV or PHEV offers the best savings if you want a fuel-efficient commuter car. A fuel-efficient gas model may work well if your driving needs require longer trips in rural areas. Drivers needing to tow and haul heavy loads benefit most from a gas or diesel powertrain. Spirited driving enthusiasts looking to lower their carbon footprint love the power, performance, and zero emissions of the EV powertrain.
No matter what powertrain works best for you, Longo Toyota of Prosper has a vehicle to suit your needs. We invite you to browse our inventory online. If you have questions, please stop by our University Drive dealership and speak with one of our vehicle consultants to find the perfect vehicle to meet your needs.
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