Understanding Today’s Truck Engine Brands: Powering the Road Ahead at GATR Truck Center
When it comes to selecting the right truck, the engine under the hood is one of the most critical decisions a fleet or owner-operator can make. From long-haul efficiency to vocational durability and medium-duty reliability, today’s commercial truck market offers a wide range of proven engine platforms.
At GATR Truck Center, we work with customers every day to match the right engine to the right application. Below is an overview of the major engine brands powering today’s semi-trucks, along with Hino medium-duty engines, to help you better understand your options.
Major Semi-Truck Engine Brands
Cummins
Cummins is one of the most recognized and widely used engine brands in the commercial trucking industry. As an independent engine manufacturer, Cummins engines are available across multiple truck brands, including Freightliner, Kenworth, Peterbilt, and International.
Known for durability, strong torque performance, and a vast service network, Cummins engines are a popular choice for fleets and owner-operators alike, particularly those who value service accessibility and long-term reliability.
Detroit Diesel (Detroit)
Detroit engines are engineered by Daimler Truck North America and are primarily found in Freightliner and Western Star trucks. Detroit engines are known for their integration with Detroit transmissions and axles, creating a fully optimized powertrain.
These engines are commonly chosen for long-haul and regional applications where fuel efficiency, advanced diagnostics, and powertrain integration are key priorities.
PACCAR Engines
PACCAR engines, including the MX-11 and MX-13, are designed specifically for Kenworth and Peterbilt trucks. Built for efficiency and performance, PACCAR engines are engineered to work seamlessly with PACCAR vehicles.
They are frequently selected by fleets looking for optimized fuel economy, lighter engine weights, and consistent performance across long-haul and vocational applications.
Volvo Trucks Engines
Volvo engines—such as the D11, D13, and D16—are developed exclusively for Volvo trucks. These engines are known for advanced technology, fuel efficiency, and strong engine braking performance.
Volvo’s fully integrated approach allows the engine, transmission, and drivetrain to function as a unified system, making them a strong option for fleets focused on efficiency and driver comfort.
Mack Engines
Mack MP series engines are built for durability and vocational strength. Designed to handle demanding applications such as construction, refuse, and heavy haul, Mack engines are known for their robustness and low-end torque.
While Mack is part of the Volvo Group, Mack engines are uniquely tuned to meet the demands of severe-duty operations.
International (Navistar) Engines
International offers its own proprietary engines, including the A26, designed for efficiency, weight reduction, and serviceability. These engines are commonly found in International trucks used for regional haul, vocational, and fleet applications.
International engines are often chosen for their balance of fuel economy, ease of maintenance, and compatibility with a wide range of truck configurations.
Hino Medium-Duty Truck Engines
In addition to Class 8 and heavy-duty platforms, GATR Truck Center also supports medium-duty operations, where Hino trucks play a key role.
Hino engines are engineered specifically for medium-duty applications, such as delivery, municipal, and vocational work. Known for reliability, longevity, and efficient operation, Hino engines are designed to perform in stop-and-go environments while maintaining low operating costs.
Hino’s focus on durability and driver-friendly design makes them an excellent solution for businesses that rely on dependable medium-duty trucks to keep daily operations moving.
Choosing the Right Engine for Your Operation
Every operation is different. Long-haul fleets, regional carriers, construction companies, and local delivery operations all place unique demands on their equipment. The right engine choice depends on factors such as:
- Duty cycle and application
- Fuel efficiency goals
- Service and support availability
- Total cost of ownership
- Fleet standardization preferences
At GATR Truck Center, our team works closely with customers to ensure the engine you choose aligns with your operational needs today—and supports your business long-term.
Your Partner in Truck Sales, Service, and Support
Whether you’re evaluating a Class 8 semi, a vocational workhorse, or a Hino medium-duty truck, GATR Truck Center is here to help. With expert guidance, trusted brands, and a commitment to customer support, we are proud to keep your trucks—and your business—moving forward.
Visit GATR Truck Center today to learn more about our inventory, service capabilities, and engine options.