Diesel cars are often known for their fuel efficiency and torque, but many are surprisingly fast as well. We’re highlighting 17 high-torque diesel cars that don’t just offer great fuel economy—they also pack plenty of power and speed. These vehicles prove that diesel engines can be both efficient and quick, offering impressive performance on the road.
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BMW 335d
The BMW 335d seamlessly blends luxury with performance, boasting a 3.0-liter inline-six engine that churns out an impressive 425 lb-ft of torque. With such power, it rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds, proving diesel can be fast. Its smooth eight-speed automatic transmission ensures quick gear shifts, enhancing the driving experience. For those seeking a combination of fuel efficiency and power, this car ticks all the boxes.
Audi SQ5 TDI
Underneath the refined exterior of the Audi SQ5 TDI lies a beastly 3.0-liter V6 engine that produces a whopping 516 lb-ft of torque. This power enables it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, a rare feat for an SUV of its size. Its quattro all-wheel drive helps it maintain excellent traction, making it quick and confident even in challenging driving conditions.
Jaguar F-Pace S Diesel
Jaguar’s F-Pace S Diesel combines its sporty heritage with the torque-heavy characteristics of diesel. Equipped with a 3.0-liter V6 engine, it generates an impressive 516 lb-ft of torque, enough to propel this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The vehicle’s lightweight aluminum construction further aids in its dynamic performance.
Porsche Cayenne Diesel S
Known for its thrilling performance, the Porsche Cayenne Diesel S doesn’t disappoint. The 4.2-liter V8 diesel engine delivers an astounding 627 lb-ft of torque, allowing this luxury SUV to hit 60 mph in a brisk 5.4 seconds. Porsche’s legendary handling ensures that, despite its size, the Cayenne feels nimble on the road. This diesel-powered machine strikes an excellent balance between everyday usability and exhilarating performance.
Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC
The Mercedes-Benz E350 BlueTEC proves that diesel-powered luxury sedans can also be quick. Its 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine delivers 400 lb-ft of torque, which powers the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The refined ride and smooth power delivery are quintessentially Mercedes, making this sedan ideal for both comfort and performance.
Volkswagen Golf GTD
The Volkswagen Golf GTD offers a sporty driving experience without sacrificing fuel economy. Powered by a 2.0-liter TDI engine, it produces 280 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. It may not be the fastest car on this list, but its nimble handling and quick acceleration make it feel faster on twisty roads. The GTD is perfect for those seeking diesel efficiency with a touch of performance.
Range Rover Sport SDV6
The Range Rover Sport SDV6 is not only luxurious but also surprisingly quick. With its 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine generating 516 lb-ft of torque, this large SUV accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. Its off-road prowess doesn’t hinder its on-road performance, offering a seamless transition between rugged capability and speed. The Sport SDV6’s agility makes it a strong contender among performance SUVs.
Chevrolet Cruze Diesel
Don’t let its compact size fool you— the Chevrolet Cruze Diesel packs a punch. Its 1.6-liter turbo-diesel engine generates 240 lb-ft of torque, propelling it from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds. This level of torque at lower speeds offers excellent acceleration in urban environments, making it a practical yet surprisingly zippy option. Efficiency and power blend seamlessly in this small but mighty sedan.
BMW X5 xDrive40d
The BMW X5 xDrive40d takes the notion of an SUV to the next level, combining practicality with performance. Its 3.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine delivers 465 lb-ft of torque, pushing this SUV from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds. Paired with the xDrive all-wheel-drive system, the X5 handles exceptionally well for its size. This diesel-powered SUV offers both power and refinement, making it a family-friendly option with an adrenaline rush.
Volvo XC90 D5
The Volvo XC90 D5 showcases the brand’s commitment to both safety and performance. Powered by a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine, it produces 354 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to reach 60 mph in just 7.4 seconds. Though not the fastest in its class, its smooth power delivery and agile handling make it feel quick and responsive in real-world driving. Volvo’s hallmark focus on comfort and technology further enhances the driving experience.
Audi A6 50 TDI
The Audi A6 50 TDI combines luxury with diesel power in an elegant package. Featuring a 3.0-liter V6 engine, it delivers 457 lb-ft of torque, helping it reach 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds. The quattro all-wheel drive ensures excellent traction, making it feel fast and stable even at high speeds. Audi’s attention to detail in both design and performance is evident, offering a perfect balance of speed and sophistication.
Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel
The Ford F-150 Power Stroke Diesel proves that even large trucks can be fast. Its 3.0-liter V6 engine generates 440 lb-ft of torque, allowing this full-size truck to hit 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. Beyond its surprising speed, the truck’s torque-heavy engine makes it ideal for towing and hauling heavy loads. Whether for work or play, the F-150 Diesel offers the perfect mix of power and quickness.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2.2 Diesel
With the Alfa Romeo Stelvio 2.2 Diesel, style meets performance in a surprising diesel package. Powered by a 2.2-liter engine, it produces 332 lb-ft of torque, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The Stelvio’s responsive handling and sleek design make it feel quicker than its size suggests. Alfa Romeo has managed to infuse this diesel SUV with the brand’s signature Italian flair and agility.
Skoda Octavia vRS TDI
The Skoda Octavia vRS TDI offers a performance-focused diesel experience in a practical sedan. Its 2.0-liter TDI engine generates 280 lb-ft of torque, pushing it to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. With sporty handling and responsive steering, this diesel sedan delivers a dynamic driving experience. For those who want a blend of efficiency and performance, the vRS TDI stands out in its class.
Mazda CX-5 Diesel
The Mazda CX-5 Diesel takes the brand’s renowned driving dynamics and pairs them with a torquey diesel engine. Its 2.2-liter twin-turbo diesel delivers 310 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a 0 to 60 mph time of 8.0 seconds. While not the quickest SUV, its handling and responsiveness more than make up for it. The CX-5 Diesel is ideal for drivers who want agility and efficiency in one package.
Land Rover Discovery SDV6
The Land Rover Discovery SDV6 delivers both rugged capability and impressive diesel performance. Its 3.0-liter V6 diesel engine churns out 442 lb-ft of torque, helping it reach 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. Despite its size and off-road capabilities, the Discovery offers smooth acceleration on pavement. Land Rover’s commitment to luxury and performance shines through in this versatile SUV.
Mercedes-Benz GLE 400d
The Mercedes-Benz GLE 400d pairs diesel efficiency with remarkable speed in a luxurious SUV. Equipped with a 3.0-liter inline-six diesel engine, it produces a hefty 516 lb-ft of torque, pushing it to 60 mph in 5.7 seconds. Refined handling and a premium interior make this SUV a joy to drive, while its high torque ensures swift acceleration. It’s an ideal choice for those who want power without sacrificing comfort.
This article originally appeared on MyCarMakesNoise.
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