Peterbilt 579 vs Freightliner Cascadia
Two sleeper rigs compared spec for spec: the 579 (2012–present, 405–565 hp) against the Cascadia (2007–present, 350–605 hp). Same data we keep on every truck in the encyclopedia — and Mike on hand if the answer depends on your routes and loads.
579
The aerodynamic flagship of the fleet world.
Cascadia
America's best-selling Class 8 truck.
| Spec | Peterbilt 579 | Freightliner Cascadia |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | PACCAR | Daimler Truck North America |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Sleeper | Sleeper |
| Years | 2012–present | 2007–present |
| Rating | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | 405–565 hp | 350–605 hp |
| Engines | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 | Detroit DD13, Detroit DD15, Detroit DD16, Cummins X15 |
| Applications | Long-haul, Regional | Long-haul, Regional, Team |
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.
About the Freightliner Cascadia
Launched in 2007 as Freightliner's flagship aerodynamic Class 8 on-highway tractor, the Cascadia became the first Class 8 truck in North America to reach 1 million units built, a milestone Daimler Truck celebrated on April 24, 2024. Across its generations the platform has improved fuel efficiency by more than 35 percent, cementing it as the continent's best-selling heavy truck.
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.
