Engine architecture
L-twin → V4
The original Diavel (2011-2022) used the Testastretta L-twin from the Panigale superbike. The Diavel V4 (2023+) uses the Granturismo V4 from the Multistrada V4. Major change of character — V-twin to V4 — the same shift Ducati did with the Streetfighter (V-twin to V4) and Multistrada (V-twin to V4) around 2020-2022.
What category this invented
Power cruiser
The Diavel essentially invented the modern power-cruiser category. Cruiser silhouette (low and long) but with sport-bike performance (162-168bhp, 236kg, sport tyres, sport brakes). The closest competitor in 2026 is the Harley LiveWire — and the Triumph Speed Twin is sometimes mentioned as cruiser-adjacent. Ducati owns this niche.
Power gain (1st gen → V4)
+6bhp
162bhp Diavel V-twin → 168bhp Diavel V4. Modest gain in peak power. The V4 makes more power across a wider rev range — more usable, smoother, and with the V4 character that Ducati now uses across most of their range.
Real cost change
+$6.9k
Original Diavel was $20,250 in 2016 ($26,325 today). Diavel V4 is $33,203 — about 26% more in real terms. The V4 redesign added significant content: radar adaptive cruise, V4 motor, more electronics, better materials. Premium pricing reflects the upgrade.
Radar adaptive cruise
On a cruiser
The Diavel V4 (2023+) has radar adaptive cruise control — making it the first cruiser with the system. The Multistrada V4 had radar first (2021); the Diavel V4 inherited it from the platform sharing. No other cruiser had radar in 2026.
Weight similar
−1kg
237kg wet original Diavel → 236kg wet Diavel V4. Modern bike is essentially the same weight despite V4 motor and radar hardware. Ducati engineering kept the weight constant despite adding tech — same approach as Streetfighter V4 vs Streetfighter 848.
Cheapest way in
$11.5k
A clean original Diavel from 2016-2020. The V-twin Diavel — Testastretta motor, more characterful than the V4 in some ways, much cheaper on the UK used market. Genuine power-cruiser experience for less than half the new V4 price.
