Many Jeep enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating a Jeep diesel for the US market.  There were rumblings in 2010 that the new Jeep Wrangler diesel that is now being offered in Europe would be available in North America, but plans were scrapped over concerns about how well it would be received.  That was bad news for many Jeep/diesel lovers because the model introduced at the 2010 Paris motor show offered plenty of features including new powertrain options and a brand new turbocharged diesel engine that most think would attract sales in the U.S.

Jeep has, in the last decade, offered diesel engines on two models, and this inspires hope that a Jeep diesel for the US might again be introduced in the near future.  The Jeep Liberty CRD was introduced to North Americans in 2005 and was the first diesel-powered mid-size SUV, equipped with a 4-cylinder turbo diesel engine. 

Now, with gasoline prices on the rise again, with no ceiling in sight, there is renewed talk about a Jeep diesel for the US.  Higher gas mileage capability and lower fuel costs would be the driving forces, as they are behind many decisions in the auto industry.  The European 2011 Jeep Wrangler offers fuel economy increases of 13-15% from the 2.8 liter diesel that is capable of a robust 200 horsepower and more than 300 pound-feet of torque, depending on the transmission.  The mileage numbers are very attractive.  It offers a combined 30 MPG by achieving nearly 24 MPG in the city and 36 MPG on the highway.  The transmission choices are a 6-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic.  An added bonus is a reduction in emissions of 14% over previous generations of Jeep diesel engines.  Many believe this Jeep Wrangler would be a Jeep diesel for the US that would be very well-received by those who enjoy the Jeep experience as well as by fuel-conscious consumers looking to save money.  Some “green” websites are also heralding the fact that it significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions while cutting down on the use of fossil fuels. 

Currently, there may not be enough motivation for Jeep to introduce this vehicle into the North American market.  However, if fuel prices continue their volatile rise, the leadership of Jeep North America may change its thinking.  We’ve certainly seen fuel prices and a demand for better fuel economy greatly influence these decisions, most notably in the 1970’s.  It has been a contributing factor in the decisions made in Detroit ever since. 

Independent experts on the auto industry believe the 24/36 MPG the European Jeep Wrangler offers would offer a Jeep diesel for the US market that would produce good sales.  Not only would traditional Jeep and SUV enthusiasts gravitate toward this vehicle, but a whole new segment of buyers looking for fuel economy in something other than a compact foreign car would be sure to give it a look.  Keep your fingers crossed.  This beefy diesel Jeep Wrangler that the European market is eating up may one day soon make its debut as the next Jeep diesel for the US market.