As an automotive industry expert with a focus on fuel economy and environmental impact, I've spent considerable time analyzing the cost and efficiency of various fuels, including diesel. Diesel fuel is a complex hydrocarbon mixture derived from crude oil, much like gasoline, but it has a higher energy density and is less volatile. This means that diesel engines can extract more energy from each gallon of fuel compared to gasoline engines, which is one of the reasons why diesel vehicles often have better fuel economy.

The cost of diesel fuel compared to regular gasoline can vary widely depending on several factors such as location, time of year, and global market conditions. According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), as of my last update, diesel fuel tends to be more expensive than regular gasoline by about $0.24 per gallon. However, this price difference is not static and can fluctuate.

It's important to note that while diesel may cost more per gallon, the energy content of diesel is significantly higher, which can offset the higher cost per gallon. Diesel fuel contains between 25% and 30% more energy than an equivalent amount of gasoline. This higher energy content means that diesel engines can travel further on the same amount of fuel, which can be a significant advantage for long-distance travel and heavy-duty applications.

Let's take the example of the new BMW 328d, which is equipped with a diesel engine. This vehicle achieves better fuel economy than the gas-powered Smart fortwo coupe, despite the higher cost of diesel. The BMW 328d also delivers a robust 180 horsepower, a substantial increase compared to the Smart's 70 horsepower. This example illustrates how the higher energy content of diesel can contribute to better performance and efficiency, even with a higher initial cost.

However, it's also crucial to consider the total cost of ownership when comparing diesel to gasoline. While diesel may be more expensive at the pump, the lower fuel consumption and longer engine life can result in cost savings over the life of the vehicle. Diesel engines are known for their durability and longevity, which can reduce maintenance costs and extend the life of the vehicle.

In addition, diesel vehicles often have lower carbon emissions compared to their gasoline counterparts, which can be an important consideration for environmentally conscious consumers. The lower emissions can contribute to a smaller carbon footprint and align with efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In conclusion, while diesel fuel may be more expensive than regular gasoline, the higher energy content, better fuel economy, and potential for lower total ownership costs make it an attractive option for many drivers. The decision to choose diesel over gasoline should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the vehicle's intended use, the local cost of fuel, and personal preferences regarding performance and environmental impact.

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Diesel may cost more than regular gasoline (about $0.24 more per gallon, per AAA's current figures) but it's much richer in energy -- between 25% and 30% richer. The new BMW 328d (d for diesel) gets better mileage than the gas-powered Smart fortwo coupe. And it produces 180 horsepower, compared to the Smart's measly 70.Aug 21, 2013read more >>