The diesel cycle operates with a compression ignition system, which requires a higher compression ratio to raise the temperature of the air sufficiently to ignite the diesel fuel.
In contrast, the Otto cycle (used in petrol engines) relies on spark ignition, and hence operates with a relatively lower compression ratio to avoid knocking.
Typical compression ratios: Otto cycle: 8:1 to 12:1 Diesel cycle: 14:1 to 22:1