I think maybe the difference in what the guys I know feel about cost of ownership of their diesels and yours, likely is centered on how many miles they put on truck between purchases. Most of these guys are well into the hundred(s) K range on the Odometer before they are ready for their next buy. What they all seem to agree on is the out of warranty cost of ownership on their diesel is very disappointing.
Also, while all agree the mileage is way better on their diesel versus a gas alternative, they are looking at engines that run fine on 87 octane and that is fully 15% cheaper here than the diesel alternative. Throw in most can buy "Top Tier" 87 octane regular here at Costco for about $2/gal versus the roughly $2.55/gal diesel will run them, the actual out of pocket gas costs savings are not what they might appear when looking at the Monroney sticker.
It sounds like you have it all worked out for your needs. I am just reporting what many around here who have been devout diesel owners for many generations of trucks are saving about their next purchase. These guys pay close attention to their costs over the life of their truck.
I can't argue with that logic. If you are working them hard, using them in a commercial setting and driving them till the wheels fall off with employees who may abuse them /don't care...
Prob a gasser may work best..... Especially if you expensing your fuel to a job. Most work vehicles are bare bones, lowest engine choice, no frills vehicles that most possibly run on 87. Easiest to fix with cheap parts, widely available etc. Again prob a good choice.
But if you run a lot of miles and you want to be in a fairly upscale vehicle, and You are willing to pay attn to the things a diesel needs on a scheduled maintenance basis, they can be highly cost effective. No upscale vehicle I know regardless of brand, wants anything but premium to run correctly, and no upscale vehicle I know that needs it in the 3 seat category gets more than say 20 MPG on a good day consistently, and usually around 15-16 in daily errands driving if they are being totally honest. For us, we take 5000 mile trips 3-4 times a year and easily drive 600-700 miles a day. Either of my top 2 vehicles can do this with one or NO fuel stops. I do all my own maintenance, oil changes, fuel filter changes, Easy DEF Fills. My wife's JAG factory recommended oil changes are 20K! ( I do 10k just because..). All in all , like you say, this is just me, and suits me the best...
The Yukon Denali (Or Tahoe or Esky..) with the Duramax, I believe, will be one of the last great Diesel SUV's produced, as we slide into the EV funnel chute by all makers. That 150K oil belt doesn't scare me a bit, and I'm gonna get me one if I can...
