Marchionne confirms diesel Jeep Grand Cherokee for 2013

Chrysler and Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne explained to the Automotive News that the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be available with a new common rail diesel (CRD) option for the US market. It is likely that this diesel Jeep sold in the US will be powered by the same 3.0L turbo diesel V6 offered in European Grand Cherokee models, offering 224 horsepower and 406lb-ft of torque. In addition to that, sources within Chrysler have told AN that after this new diesel option is launched in the 2013 Grand Cherokee, most other “large” Chrysler vehicles will also offer this new engine. We can expect that these other large vehicles include the Dodge Durango that shares a platform and build site with the Grand Cherokee; and if the Grand Cherokee and Durango get this torquey new diesel option perhaps the Ram 1500 will also finally get its diesel option.

Also, the 3.0L turbo diesel V6 offered in the European Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in the Lancia Theme which is a rebadged version of the Chrysler 300. Based on that, the full sized luxury sedan could be the next “large” vehicle to get the 3.0L diesel option and if the Chrysler LX-platform sedan gets this engine choice, perhaps the Dodge Charger that shares the platform will also receive it. The main sticking point here is that the Dodge Charger is billed and marketed as a high performance sport sedan and a 224 horsepower turbo diesel might not fit into their current brand direction. However, with a variety of powerful yet fuel efficient diesel engines already offered in the luxury segment by the likes of BMW and Mercedes Benz, perhaps Chrysler will take their shot at the luxury diesel sedan market with the CRD-powered Chrysler 300 in 2013 or 2014.

Other Chrysler News:
Jeep Grand Cherokee diesel spotted out testing – in the US
Major Chrysler UAW locals vote "no" on the new contract
Chrysler covers the HQ with a gigantic 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8
The 2012 Fiat 500 earns IIHS Top Safety Pick
Marchionne: no more Dodge Caravan after 2012
Chrysler leads the nation in September growth, bests Toyota in sales

Source: Automotive News