P.M. anounces Mazda and Chevy to get it to the small Diesel market.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

So looks like Dodge, Mazda, and Chevy are getting into the small diesel engines, and it also hinted at ford getting into one in its Transit series (replaces the E series van) Now I work at a Ford dealer and have heard nothing of any other diesel other than the 6.7L so this is intriguing to me. Anyone else with info?

[JOHNBIGDOG]

Did some research, looks like the 3.2L that ford is announcing in the transit, is an engine from over the pond and is already in production. So hopefully it wont have the issues of a truly "new" engine. I also saw that ford has 2.2Ls and a 2.4L diesel in production overseas too. I would like to see that 2.4 in a fusion in AWD... I would maybe consider selling my tdi jetta.

Looks like the engine in the cruse is slightly less powerful than the dub, the Mazda didn't really give much info other than a wonderful youtube video.

[CAMAN]

But unfortunately these will still probably be 'new' engines in order to pass the eco-nazi's emission standards.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

that is true... and I cannot tell you, but at least the base engine shouldn't(?) fail.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

Found this:

Advanced, Fuel-Efficient 3.2-Liter Power Stroke Turbo Diesel Makes North American Debut in All-New 2014 Ford Transit

-Already a proven global workhorse, Ford adds 3.2-liter five-cylinder turbo diesel to fuel-efficient North American lineup in all-new Transit commercial van range

-This innovative engine features state-of-the-art fuel, turbo and emissions systems that meet stringent U.S. clean diesel standards

-The 3.2-liter Power Stroke® Diesel will deliver outstanding performance, exceptional fuel economy and low operating costs

DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 10, 2012 – Ford's all-new Transit full-size van, which goes on sale late next year, will be offered with a new clean-running 3.2-liter Power Stroke® five-cylinder diesel, further bolstering Ford's lineup of fuel-efficient cars, trucks and SUVs.

The new diesel, Ford's second in North America, already has established a proven record for reliability, durability and refinement in the global Ford Ranger truck sold in world markets. The new Power Stroke Diesel will be the only five-cylinder diesel engine available in a commercial van in North America.

"Commercial van drivers spend most of their working hours behind the wheel. We know they want a fuel-efficient diesel engine with smooth, responsive performance and low operating costs," said Joe Bakaj, Ford vice president of Powertrain Engineering. "The 3.2-liter Power Stroke engine has been developed and proven globally to deliver a world-class combination of power, fuel economy and refinement."

The 3.2-liter will join the most fuel-efficient lineup in Ford Motor Company's history. Next year, Ford will offer eight vehicles rated at 40 mpg or higher – double today's total, and more than any other automaker. Ford tops Toyota in fuel economy in every segment in which both companies compete.

While power has not been certified for North America, the new diesel engine is rated in Europe at 197 horsepower and 347 lb.-ft. of torque.

Like the larger 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 offered in Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks, the fuel system has been carefully tailored and calibrated for combustion efficiency. It enables the newest Power Stroke to achieve exceptional fuel economy ratings without affecting power levels.

The 3.2-liter turbo diesel features state-of-the-art piezoelectric fuel injectors fed through a high-pressure common rail fuel system, and advanced emissions technologies.

Precise injection timing and calibration also ensures a smooth combustion process to reduce hard diesel combustion clatter, resulting in lower noise levels that are more like a gasoline engine. Each injector nozzle has eight spray holes and can deliver up to five injections per combustion cycle. A pilot injection controls noise levels and a main injection is used for power generation.

Technical features of the new Power Stroke 3.2-liter include:

-Quick-start glow plugs that enable smooth and fast startups at temperatures down to 25 degrees F

-Durable, rigid sand-cast gray iron cylinder block

-Aluminum cylinder heads with double overhead cams and four valves per cylinder

-Advanced common rail piezoelectric fuel injectors that deliver multiple injections per stroke to improve performance and reduce NVH; maximum fuel pressure is 26,100 psi

-Variable nozzle turbocharger with electronic actuation; maximum impellor speed of 197,800 rpm

-First application of selective catalytic reduction for reduced nitrogen oxide emissions in a Ford van

-Integrated diesel oxidation catalyst and diesel particulate filter to save space

-Expected to be B20 biodiesel compatible

Additionally, the engine features cast-aluminum, low-friction coated pistons with piston-cooling jets, which squirt oil on the underside of the pistons to keep the piston crowns cool under extreme operating conditions. Also included is a water-cooled high-performance electric-controlled exhaust gas recirculation valve that is better able to withstand coolant pressure drops.

The 3.2-liter Power Stroke is one of several engines that will be available for Transit in North America, including the proven 3.5-liter EcoBoost®gasoline engine. All engines are mated to a Ford 6R80 six-speed automatic transmission.

With a flat torque plateau – 90 percent of its peak torque is available from 1,700 to 3,500 rpm, providing better engine flexibility – Transit will be able to effortlessly haul full loads in town and on the highway, while offering flexible performance across each gear in the six-speed automatic transmission.

"The Power Stroke name is synonymous with power, work and long-term durability," said Bakaj. "We're confident our commercial van customers will be extremely pleased with the 3.2-liter's fuel economy, performance and running costs."

The Power Stroke 3.2-liter is manufactured in Ford's Struandale Engine Plant in Port Elizabeth, South Africa. It will be exported to Ford's Kansas City Assembly Plant in Claycomo, Mo., which received a $1.1 billion investment for the Transit.

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 172,000 employees and 65 plants worldwide, the company's automotive brands include Ford and Lincoln. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford and its products worldwide, please visit http://corporate.ford.com.

[Scott K]

This was news to me, but then again, like any other info, with Ford, if you dont ask, no one tells you.

I have had some minimal experience with the 3.2 diesel, and it is rather comparable to the Meredes diesel engine, but with more power. It should be a good option for cargo/ commercial vans. They get great highway mpg, have decent enough power for everyday driving, but seem to struggle a bit with a trailer behind it, and it likes to hold its rpm's a little to long. Simular to towing with the 4.0 SOHC engine, except mpg is a lot better.

I have my doubts it will be successful in a pickup, because of the towing issue, unless they plop an 8speed tranny in it. But it's strenghts are in highway miles, it should get low to mid 40's.

[Dave S]

Anyone else with info?

The only thing I've heard about Chevy is the Cruze is being outfitted with a diesel rated at 42 MPG and numbers around 142hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque. In comparison, the Cruze Eco is rated at 40 mpg with a gas engine.

Very similar numbers to the Jetta TDI but the Cruze starting price is about $3K higher than the Jetta.

If geared correctly the Cruze diesel should have better acceleration than the gas model.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

I think my jetta (TDI) has good acceleration...The 1st gear engine braking on deceleration with the dsg can get you if your not paying attention.

I did read up on the chevy HSOforum.

[Dave S]

I hear ya on the DSG. Just went down a hill in Mankato and it held in 3rd gear. No brakes needed. I went from a Cruze to a TDI. IMO the TDI is a far better vehicle.

[quickfish6]

waiting for the cx9 to get a diesel hopefully next year then the old lady is getting one. 42 mpg from a decent sized SUV. I wont complain.

[LMITOUT]

Hmmmm.

I see that GM just announced a twin-turbo V6 for the Cadillac CTS. 420HP/430TQ. 8-spd auto transmission.

You would have to think that a variant of this engine would eventually find itself in one of GM's 1/2 ton pickups...wouldn't you?

[Lip_Ripper Guy]

That was the first thing I thought of when I read the article. I don't see why not.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

Got to see one of them fancy new chevy cruse diesels at the auto show.... from a distance..... the hood was not open. I was sad.

[CJH]

Hmmmm.

I see that GM just announced a twin-turbo V6 for the Cadillac CTS. 420HP/430TQ. 8-spd auto transmission.

You would have to think that a variant of this engine would eventually find itself in one of GM's 1/2 ton pickups...wouldn't you?

Yep, its only a matter of time. They have been working on this engine for quite a while, since it was delayed by the Bankruptcy and engineering changes (originally it was going to be a 3.0L, of which there may still be a variant). Which is kind of hilarious considering they have been ripping on Ford's Eco-Boost since it came out.

There is a rumor going around the new Colorado will get a diesel as well. Probably something from oversees, as the one going in the Cruze is a little light on power for that heavy of a vehicle.

FYI ~ the diesel in the Jetta is scheduled to be upgraded in a year or two for the VW fans.

[Scott K]

Quote:

VW fans

Since when did VW have fans?

[Macgyver55]

Since when did VW have fans?

The only ones I can think of are of the heating and cooling type!

[Scott K]

[brian6715]

I can't afford the upkeep costs involved with being a VW fan!

[Dave S]

2 parked in my garage and couldn't be happier. One with over 60k miles and the other close to 10k. Nothing other than oil changes, tires and tire rotations. Both are proving to be the most reliable vehicles I've owned. Even more so than the numerous new domestic brands I've owned over the years.

Would I buy another? In a heartbeat.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

Since when did VW have fans?

Because vw never had air cooled engines.

I have two. Got into then with my '74 super while I was in az.

[delcecchi]

The only ones I can think of are of the heating and cooling type!

To beat the dead horse, my 68 beetle had this big fan that sort of cooled the engine by blowing air over it.

Worked great in Minn. Not so great in California.

[shizzy]

The only thing I've heard about Chevy is the Cruze is being outfitted with a diesel rated at 42 MPG and numbers around 142hp and 240 ft/lbs of torque. In comparison, the Cruze Eco is rated at 40 mpg with a gas engine.

Very similar numbers to the Jetta TDI but the Cruze starting price is about $3K higher than the Jetta.

If geared correctly the Cruze diesel should have better acceleration than the gas model.

I don't see the math working here. An extra 2MPG, but now it runs on fuel that is .50 cents to a dollar more per gallon.

[JONOV]

Yeah, using 3.50/gallon vs. 4.00/gallon, to break even you would have to hit 46 MPG assuming they cost the same to begin with. Its a shame that the economic/political isn't right for diesels in the US yet. The new Jeep Grand Cherokee is getting one that supposedly gets 21/28, and tows over 7000 pounds. I wonder if we'll ever see the tax/epa regulations put Diesel on an equal playing field.

[JOHNBIGDOG]

Folks, lets remember that those "highway" estimated MPG are not easily achievable. My 2011 TDI jetta is rated for 30/42. I can get a honest 40 mpg from it at 65 to/from the metro to/from the Iron range. If I was patient enough to drive 55 I could get mid to high 40s I would assume. Now as I don't know, How many members have a vehicle (gas) rated for 40 mpg or better and get that? Now how many people who have said car can floor it at 80 mph and actually "pass" someone else?

[JohnMickish]

Last year I had a rental Ford Focus that got 37MPG at 75MPH on an extended highway trip. That's not 40 but it still is impressive.

It will be interesting to see if these diesels are allowed to develop in passenger vehicles. The small SUV market seems like a perfect fit for them too.