The diesel Titan has supposed to have become available a few different times already and keeps getting delayed. It was announced as a '15 model, but now is slated as a '16. Never a good sign. And yes, it's a Cummins, but it's a brand new one with no track record. The Titan has never been on my list of contenders, it just lacks too much in just about every category, compared to the competition. The all new XD with the Cummins is supposed to change all that. And very well may. It's still all speculation though.
I've owned several diesels. They are awesome for what they are awesome at. But, to me, MPG is not a good reason to get one. Unless you do a lot of miles, and I mean a lot, towing, you'll never make up the purchase price premium in fuel savings. Especially since diesel fuel prices occasionally spike to unreal levels. I still remember $170 fill-ups when it hit $5 a gallon (here in Salt Lake) about ten years ago.
That said, you can generally count on getting back most of the additional cost when you sell. They do hold their value better than gas models. There is some large brand differences here too though - which, if you only plan on keeping a diesel for three or four years, it might pay to research. Rams with the Cummins and GMC's with the Duramax have traditionally done MUCH better than any Ford diesel offering in this regard. The Fords cost about $5- $7K more new, but go for about $5K less used.
Whether this resale strength will apply to the new breed of half ton diesels, remains to be seen. But, personally, I just don't think the Ram 1500 Eco Diesel actually makes much sense for any but a very few buyers. As a long time diesel owner and fan in general, it didn't take me long to cross it off my list when buying a new truck. Simply put, the math just doesn't add up, for my purposes and intended ownership. The Titan is going to be quite different, making a lot more power and having much higher tow/haul ratings than the Ram. If it lives up to the hype, it's going to be a beast of a half ton and a game changer. But, it's still vaporware at this point and I'm pretty jaded on pre-launch hype. Would not be an early adopter on this one, personally.
You're a Toyota guy Nick. Just get a Toyota. It's what Toyota guys do. Simple.
BTW... I'm running the KO2's on my Toyota and love them! I also have the Duratrac on my Ram 1500. Have a lot more miles on the D-tracs at this point and no complaints. The KO2's are quieter and smoother, but also less aggressive. Bit of a trade off, but might sway a person one way or the other.
- DAA
