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Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel spotted out testing – in the US

Earlier today, we brought you the news of the Jeep Grand Cherokee making its debut when the Geneva Motor Show opens next month and although few expect to see the diesel Jeep in the US, a pair of CRD-badged test mules out roaming the Michigan roads suggests that the oil-burning SUV could show up at North American Jeep dealerships.

As you can see in the image on the left and in the gallery below, these two 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees appear to be standard production utes aside from the fact that they are both wearing CRD badges in the lower right corner of the rear end. For those unfamiliar, CRD stands for Common Rail Diesel and this is the type of diesel engine used by the Jeep brand over the past decade or so – both in North America and around the world of the world. While the diesel set to debut in Geneva differs from those oil-burners used in the past by the Jeep brand, the images of the new Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel models sport the familiar CRD logos. Click here for more information on the new diesel Grand Cherokee.

Both of the new Jeep Grand Cherokees caught in these images are wearing Limited badges, although the black model looks to have split-spoke wheels – similar to those found on the new Laredo X 70th Anniversary Edition. These very well could just be standard test mules but with the recent news of the return of the diesel Grand Cherokee, these images could suggest that the diesel-powered flagship Jeep might see a return to the US (or other North American) markets.

Diesel engines are not all that well received in the US but with the advancements in diesel technology helping to do away with the noise and smoke commonly associated with older diesel engines, some companies are beginning to test the waters with new diesel offerings in the US. Jeep has offered a variety of diesel powered models over the past decade, including the Grand Cherokee so perhaps the North American market will get another shot at the torquey diesel SUV.

Check out the gallery below for a closer look at the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel out on the road near Detroit.

Other Jeep News:
Jeep Grand Cherokee Diesel To Debut At Geneva Motor Show
Grand Cherokee Selected Official Winter Vehicle of New England
Chrysler increases reimbursement for consumers with special needs
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 could debut at the NYC Auto Show
Chrysler UAW members caught using drugs, again

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