The 2018 Dodge diesel lineup represents a pivotal moment for the brand, offering truck buyers in California and across the nation a blend of capability and efficiency that was previously difficult to achieve. This year marked a significant evolution for the Ram 1500, moving away from the older 5.9L and 6.7L Cummins offerings toward a more refined powertrain strategy focused on performance and technology. For those seeking the legendary diesel durability in a lighter-duty package, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit diesel presented a compelling option that merged luxury with serious off-road potential.
The Heart of the 2018 Dodge Diesel: The 6.7L Cummins
The undisputed king of the 2018 Dodge diesel lineup is the 6.7-liter Cummins I-6 engine, found primarily in the Ram 2500 and 3500 pickups. This workhorse powertrain delivers an impressive balance of towing capacity and everyday drivability, making it a favorite among contractors and weekend warriors alike. In the Ram 2500, it produces 420 lb-ft of torque, while the Ram 3500 pushes the envelope with an estimated 800 lb-ft when properly equipped, providing the low-end grunt necessary for hauling heavy trailers and equipment.
Performance and Capability Metrics
Beyond raw numbers, the 2018 diesel trucks excel in real-world scenarios. The towing capacity of a Ram 2500 with the 6.7L Cummins can reach up to 17,540 pounds when properly equipped, placing it in direct competition with the toughest offerings from Ford and Chevrolet. Payload capacity is equally impressive, with the Ram 3500 capable of carrying over 3,800 pounds in the bed, thanks to its robust frame and sophisticated suspension design that manages the significant weight of the diesel powerplant.
Refinement and Technology Integration
One of the most significant advancements in the 2018 model year is how civilized these diesel trucks feel on a daily drive. The introduction of the eTorque mild-hybrid system on the gasoline variants bled into the diesel experience, enhancing low-speed torque and aiding in fuel economy during stop-and-go traffic. The cabins were upgraded with better materials, and the available Uconnect infotainment system provided seamless integration for navigation, phone calls, and entertainment, ensuring the driver is never out of touch despite being in a work-focused vehicle.
The Luxury and Efficiency Alternative: 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit Diesel
For buyers who desired diesel efficiency without sacrificing comfort, the 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit diesel was a standout choice. This model utilized a 3.0-liter V6 turbodiesel sourced from VM Motori, producing 240 hp and an impressive 420 lb-ft of torque. The result was a mid-size luxury SUV that could easily cruise at highway speeds while offering class-leading fuel economy for its class, a rarity among performance-oriented SUVs.
