Top Diesel Cars
As the current year gets underway, the pressure of increasing oil prices has encouraged auto owners to try new alternatives in driving practices and auto ownership. With the price of oil clearing the $100 per barrel mark, auto companies are quickly realigning their factories to produce energy efficient cars. There are various ideas on how to make a cheaper car with smaller long term car ownership. With hybrid cars ready to peak, the market for diesel cars could be a new source of competition in this front. Diesel cars come in all shape and sizes; they were first popular in trucks and buses, then went on to SUV's, sedans, and compact cars. As diesel cars are being repackaged for the mainstream consumer, the usual complaints about diesel engines like noise, sluggish performance, and environmental compliance have been shattered. Let us look at the cream of the diesel vehicle crop for the last couple of years.
Jeep Grand Cherokee SUV
The Grand Cherokee is one of the more attractive diesel SUV's in the market. While it is classified as a mid-sized SUV, the model's footprint and mass makes it one of the largest among its class. Jeep has always been known for making the most rugged off-road vehicles that run well on highways. The rough capabilities of the diesel engine, coupled with the sleek design, allow car owners to drive this diesel car in power and style. The Grand Cherokee sports various fuel-efficient diesel models for better handling and dependability on the road. From every angle, the exterior looks sharp and polished, while the interior breeds comfort with well-supported seats and quality build. While better SUV's may be available in gas engines, this diesel variant is right up there with the Nissan Pathfinder and Chevrolet Trailblazer.
2007 Volkswagen Touareg Diesel V10
The beetle makers offer their version of the off-road mid-sized vehicles with the VW Touareg V10 engine. Car and Driver and Motor Trend named this model as the “Best luxury SUV” and “SUV of the Year.” While it has remained unchanged from the base 2004 model, the VW Touareg has developed quite a following, as more consumers weigh diesel engines over the heavier gas variants. The grand design of the VW Touareg allows car owners to experience uniform performance, whether you want to take a drive out into the mountains or blaze to a mall or a night in the city. The Touareg has a large V10 5.0L diesel engine with a 6 speed standard automatic transmission and a mileage of 17 miles per gallon in the city. The Touareg scores highest in safety ratings for its brute stock build and anti-safety devices, but fares low in reliability compared to other SUV's in its class. Still, this rugged beauty is a top draw for VW enthusiasts and might just gain much relevance as diesel cars roll over this year.
Ford Super Duty Diesel Truck
In the realm of heavy-duty trucks, the imprint of Ford is undeniable. The line of Ford diesel trucks including the 2008 Ford F-250 and F-350 has one of the best strongest diesel engines in the market – a 5.4 liter 300 horsepower V8 Triton. A stronger model, the Ford F-450, ensures that all the heavy lifting that you need for your business or day-to-day use comes in an affordable fuel option. Being one of the prime vehicles that uses diesel engines, cleaner emission technologies are being pushed through for the 2008 class. Many users find the delight in having a car-feel when driving these rugged performing yet sleek looking trucks. The diesel variant of this truck comes with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission. The long bed space behind the seats will give you room to transport almost anything while giving a cool effect for young drivers. Ask someone who fancies a pick-up truck, and they will tell you how this machine performs with the best.
European and Japanese car manufacturers have disclosed their intention to increase production of diesel SUV's and sedans in the U.S. market. This is spurred by innovations in diesel emission such as the Blue motion concept, and soot cleaning in engines, mufflers, and exhaust pipes. Currently, the U.S. has a high standard when it comes to emission standards especially in east coast states. Companies have to realign their production for cleaner diesel cars while keeping the cost at a minimum. New diesel cars are expected to play on par with gas engines, as the demand for hybrid and diesel alternatives increases. Car manufacturers such as Toyota, Nissan, Honda, and Mercedes will follow suit as refilling stations hold more diesel storage for sale to counteract rising gas prices.
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