Kenworth T680 vs Peterbilt 579
Two sleeper rigs compared spec for spec: the T680 (2012–present, 405–565 hp) against the 579 (2012–present, 405–565 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
T680
Kenworth's aero flagship and fuel-economy leader.
579
The aerodynamic flagship of the fleet world.
| Spec | Kenworth T680 | Peterbilt 579 |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | PACCAR | PACCAR |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Sleeper | Sleeper |
| Years | 2012–present | 2012–present |
| Rating | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | 405–565 hp | 405–565 hp |
| Engines | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 |
| Applications | Long-haul, Regional | Long-haul, Regional |
About the Kenworth T680
Launched at the 2012 Mid-America Trucking Show (production from 2013) as Kenworth's third-generation aerodynamic conventional replacing the T660 and T700, the T680 emerged from a four-year, $400 million program to develop the 2.1-meter cab and PACCAR MX engine. The 2021 T680 Next Gen made it Kenworth's most aerodynamic truck ever and introduced a 15-inch digital instrument display that Kenworth billed as the largest standard factory screen in any North American truck.
About the Peterbilt 579
Launched in 2012 as Peterbilt's on-highway flagship, the aerodynamic Model 579 anchors the EPIQ fuel-efficiency package and in 2018 gained the integrated UltraLoft sleeper, which gives drivers a full 8 feet of standing headroom and roughly 70 cubic feet of storage. It is the truck most fleets pick when they want Peterbilt's best highway fuel economy in a Class 8 tractor.
Which one fits your operation?
Specs only get you so far — routes, loads and the shop that maintains it matter. Mike, the free AI truck consultant, talks it through with you. No account, 24/7.
