With all the talk of fuel efficiency the last several years, it boggles my mind why Ford and GM are set to introduce V8 diesels with torque ratings in the high 400 to low 500 lb-ft range for their half ton vehicles. These seem like they would be a good choice for the 3/4 ton trucks, but major overkill for a 1/2 ton. I would think something in the 2.3-2.5 liter, 225-250 lb-ft range would be great for a fuel efficient truck. At least have it as an option. We already have truck motors that put out good torque, I don't see the demand for a 20-30% increase in torque for the 1/2 ton market. Shoot, my 01 Tundra puts out like 315 lb-ft, I think, which is fine.

Is it a return on investment thing? Wanting to put these new motors in the high trim level trucks to recoup their investment, and bolster profit? Or did the development of these motors start before the companies knew how bad the fuel price thing would get?