Tested: 2026 Ford F-250 Super Duty Makes a Strong Argument for Gas Power

Why It Matters

The gas‑powered F‑250 gives fleet buyers and contractors a capable, cheaper‑to‑own alternative to diesel, challenging the long‑standing diesel dominance in the heavy‑duty segment.

Key Takeaways

• 7.3‑liter V8 adds $1,500, delivering 430 hp and 485 lb‑ft torque.
• 0‑60 time of 6.2 seconds rivals diesel‑powered F‑250s.
• Highway fuel economy drops to 15 mpg, 5 mpg less than diesel.
• Payload rating exceeds diesel thanks to 800 lb lighter curb weight.
• Base price $68,635; fully optioned gas model tops $83,800.

Pulse Analysis

The heavy‑duty truck market has been anchored by diesel engines for decades, largely because of their superior torque and fuel efficiency. However, tightening emissions standards and volatile diesel prices have nudged manufacturers to revisit gasoline powertrains. Ford’s decision to resurrect the 7.3‑liter pushrod V8 reflects a strategic pivot: a proven, low‑cost engine that can meet the performance expectations of commercial buyers while sidestepping the regulatory headwinds that diesel faces.

Performance figures show the gasoline‑powered F‑250 holding its own against the high‑output 6.7‑liter Power Stroke. A 0‑60 time of 6.2 seconds and a 14.7‑second quarter‑mile place it within striking distance of diesel rivals, while its lighter 7,230‑lb curb weight translates into a higher payload capacity. The trade‑off is fuel economy; the gas engine records about 15 mpg on the highway, roughly five miles per gallon less than the diesel, which could affect operating costs for mileage‑intensive fleets. Yet the price differential—$13,495 for the diesel option versus a modest $1,500 premium for the V8—means lower upfront capital outlay and potentially quicker ROI for buyers who prioritize payload over maximum torque.

Looking ahead, Ford’s gas‑engine move may signal a broader industry shift toward diversified powertrains, including mild‑hybrid and plug‑in electric variants that can augment gasoline performance without sacrificing efficiency. As fuel prices stabilize and emissions penalties rise, the market could see a resurgence of high‑output gasoline trucks that blend traditional torque with modern technology. For now, the 2026 F‑250’s V8 offers a compelling blend of power, price, and practicality, positioning it as a viable alternative for businesses seeking to balance capability with cost.