Peterbilt 579 vs Volvo Trucks VNL
Two sleeper rigs compared spec for spec: the 579 (2012–present, 405–565 hp) against the VNL (1996–present (all-new 2024), 405–500 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.
VNL
The clean-sheet 2024 redesign that stunned the industry.
| Spec | Peterbilt 579 | Volvo Trucks VNL |
|---|---|---|
| Maker | PACCAR | Volvo Group |
| Class | Class 8 | Class 8 |
| Body type | Sleeper | Sleeper |
| Years | 2012–present | 1996–present (all-new 2024) |
| Rating | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR | Up to 80,000 lb GCWR |
| Power | 405–565 hp | 405–500 hp |
| Engines | PACCAR MX-13, PACCAR MX-11, Cummins X15 | Volvo D13, Volvo D13 Turbo Compound |
| Applications | Long-haul, Regional | Long-haul, 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 Volvo Trucks VNL
Introduced in 1996, the VNL is Volvo's best-selling and most iconic Class 8 model in North America, built at the New River Valley plant in Dublin, Virginia for over 25 years. The all-new second generation, unveiled in January 2024 and inspired by Volvo's SuperTruck 2, uses a wedge-shaped aerodynamic cab to deliver up to 10% better fuel efficiency, with roughly 70% of that gain coming from aerodynamics alone.
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.
