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

[Dave S]

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.

Is the Grand Cherokee getting the diesel as well? I know the Cherokee (totally different vehicle) is and is rated at 28 in 4x4 trim and a tow rating of 4500 lbs and a 9 speed transmission.

I know my Jetta TDI has gotten up to 50 mpg driving with the cruise locked at 57 mph from Lakeville to Le Sueur. This is somewhat hilly terrain with twists/turns and the longest straight section of road is about 7-8 miles and having to slow down for Lonsdale, Montgomery and Lexington. When the Mrs drives to Minnetonka every day with the cruise set to 65 mph, she averages around 46-47 mpg.

As far as fuel price separation, cost benefits of diesel over gas depend on what vehicles you're comparing. Generalized numbers IMO meaningless without having vehicles to compare i.e. my former Chevy Cruze (33 mpg avg - rated at 33) and current Jetta TDI (47 mpg avg- rated at 42). TDI wins out in fuel economy, passing power, driving comfort and in my case owner satisfaction is no comparison, TDI wins hands down.

[CJH]

Is the Grand Cherokee getting the diesel as well? I know the Cherokee (totally different vehicle) is and is rated at 28 in 4x4 trim and a tow rating of 4500 lbs and a 9 speed transmission.

[Scott K]

I seen the Cherokee was going to be forward based/partial cab overs. They must have looked at Fords great ideas, and thought, we should make the mechanics pull the cabs off for basic parts replacements as well