Best Diesel Cars for City and Highway Commutes in 2025

Think diesel is just for big rigs and noisy pickups? Think again.

In 2025, diesel is making a quiet comeback—with refined engines, better fuel economy, and surprising style. Whether you’re navigating city streets or clocking miles on I-95, the best diesel cars offer a smart combo of power and practicality. And let’s be real: with gas prices jumping like your Spotify playlists, efficiency is more than just a bonus—it’s a must.

So if you’re looking to upgrade your ride with something commuter-friendly but still road-trip-ready, this list of the best diesel cars has your back.

 Why Diesel Still Slaps in 2025

We get it—electric cars are everywhere right now. But for those not ready to go full EV, diesel is still a solid, fuel-efficient option—especially if you commute long distances or crave more torque.

Here’s what diesel gives you:

• More miles per gallon than most gas counterparts
  
• Torque-rich performance, ideal for merging and highway cruising
  
• Longer engine life with fewer trips to the shop
  
• Clean diesel tech, which meets EPA standards without the smog cloud
  

If you’re not ready to plug in but still want fewer fuel stops, diesel’s your low-key MVP.

Urban-Ready: Diesel Cars That Handle the Hustle

City driving means stop-and-go traffic, tight parking spots, and dodging food delivery scooters. But some diesel cars are made for the challenge.

Chevrolet Equinox Diesel 

This compact SUV is everything millennials love—sleek, practical, and surprisingly fuel-efficient. The 1.6L turbo-diesel engine quietly delivers up to 39 MPG on the highway and handles city corners like a pro.

• Why it works: Great visibility, compact footprint, and remote start for those cold mornings.
  
• City flex: Apple CarPlay, heated seats, and that signature Chevy confidence.
  

BMW 328d Sedan 

You want a daily driver that doesn’t feel like a “dad car”? This BMW diesel brings serious Euro vibes to your U.S. commute. It’s sporty but not flashy, efficient but not boring—basically, the Gen Z/Brooklyn aesthetic in car form.

• MPG: Up to 43 on the highway
  
• Torque: 280 lb-ft—just enough to beat the traffic light
  

Built for the Open Road: Highway Kings

If your 9-to-5 includes highway miles or weekend getaways, these diesel options make every stretch of pavement feel like a flex.

 GMC Terrain Diesel

Big enough for comfort, small enough to avoid semi-truck vibes. The Terrain diesel offers highway MPG in the 38–40 range and features driver-assist tech that makes long hauls easier than ever.

• Road trip bonus: Wi-Fi hotspot standard—perfect for Zoom calls from parking lots or catching up on Netflix during lunch breaks.
  
• Pop culture nod: Featured in multiple TikTok car-camping setups (#vanlife but make it SUV).
  

Chevy Cruze Diesel (Used/Certified)

Although it’s no longer in production, a used or certified 2019 Cruze Diesel is still a top-tier pick for college students and first-time car buyers. With 52 MPG on the highway, it laughs in the face of rising gas prices.

• Why Gen Z loves it: Budget-friendly, Bluetooth-enabled, and surprisingly cute in red.
  
• Hot tip: Look for RS trim for added sporty style.
  

Commuter Crossover: Style Meets Efficiency

Let’s be honest—you’re not just buying a car for mileage. You want something that looks good pulling into a Trader Joe’s lot or parked outside a local art fair.

Mazda CX-5 Diesel

This one’s for the design lovers. The CX-5 Signature Diesel looks like a luxury crossover but costs under $40K. Inside, it’s all leather, wood trim, and upscale vibes. Outside, it turns heads.

• Highway MPG: Around 31, but with diesel torque that feels way faster
  
• City MPG: About 28, thanks to Skyactiv-D engine tuning
  

The CX-5 also nails the “Sunday drive to the farmer’s market” aesthetic Gen Z adores—throw in some vinyl records in the backseat and you’re good.

Diesel with a Conscience? Yes, It’s Possible.

Worried about emissions? You’re not alone. But today’s diesel engines aren’t the smoke-belching beasts of the past.

All vehicles on this list meet U.S. Tier 3 emission standards, and many use DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) to neutralize pollutants. Clean diesel isn’t a buzzword—it’s a legit solution for drivers who want efficiency and eco-awareness.

Ready to Commute Like a Boss?

Here’s the thing: when it comes to balancing city convenience and highway stamina, the best diesel cars give you an edge most drivers overlook. They’re more than just gas savers—they’re torque-filled, tech-packed, vibe-approved machines.

Here’s your checklist:

You want fewer fuel stops
You drive both city and freeway routes
You need comfort and confidence
You’re not quite ready for EV—but still want to make a smart choice

So whether you’re navigating LA traffic, commuting from Jersey to Manhattan, or taking I-80 cross-country—diesel deserves a spot on your radar.

Final Thoughts from NexgenWheels

Diesel may not be the flashiest option on the market right now, but it’s definitely one of the smartest—especially for drivers who juggle both city commutes and highway escapes. From sleek sedans to sporty crossovers, the best diesel cars offer the kind of fuel efficiency, torque, and long-term reliability that today’s drivers actually need.

At NexgenWheels, we’re all about spotlighting cars that fit your lifestyle—not just your budget. Whether you’re commuting to work, heading out for a weekend road trip, or just want something that balances performance and practicality, diesel could be your underrated ace.

Stick with NexgenWheels for more real-talk reviews, Gen Z–friendly car g