Best Diesel SUV

Best Diesel SUV: Advances In Fuel Economy And Performance Vehicles that run on diesel are slowly coming back into the market. According to the Depa...

Best Diesel SUV: Advances In Fuel Economy And Performance

Vehicles that run on diesel are slowly coming back into the market. According to the Department of Energy – Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), this is due to the fact that diesel engines are not only powerful, but are also fuel efficient. The best diesel SUV engine would outperform a similar gasoline SUV engine by as much as 30-35 percent in terms of fuel efficiency. The best diesel SUV is built using a combination cutting edge engine control systems and fuel injection technologies.

This has resulted in diesel SUVs to be capable of:

• Improved acceleration

• Enhanced power output

• Increased efficiency

On average, the best diesel SUV is more likely to be smoother and quieter than older diesel models. This is all due to advances in vibration damping and noise reduction technologies. They also start more easily and smoothly during cold weather. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), modern diesels are required to meet stringent emission standards just like their gasoline engines counterparts. This has been made possible by advances in alternative fuels such as biodiesel which is extracted from specific plants such as the Jatropha plant and ultra low sulfur diesel. Advanced engine technologies and exhaust treatment have also made this a reality.

The Federal government is clearly committed to a cleaner environment free of Nitrogen Oxide and other pollutants associated with diesel combustion. It offers tax incentives on certain diesel SUVs (2010-11 Volkswagen Golf 2.0L TDI (automatic) and 2009-10 Volkswagen Touareg 3.0L TDI) of up to $3,400 that are purchased within a certain time frame. These diesel SUVs are classified as lean burn vehicles by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you want a machine that will be hauling heavy loads and providing comfort at the same time, GMC, FORD and Dodge offer some of the best trucks in the market.

Ever wondered why the best diesel SUV or truck always costs more than its gasoline counterpart? Well, here’s why. Diesel engines require a stronger engine block that is capable of withstanding the high stress environment of diesel combustion. They are also come with extras such as turbochargers for improved performance and a mandatory exhaust treatment which ensures they meet the stipulated exhaust emissions. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) carries out more strenuous testing on the safety aspects of diesels which have made manufacturers equip these vehicles with the latest safety gadgets such as ABS, stability control, side airbags and side curtain full length air bags.

Best Diesel SUV – The Following Diesels Are Top In The Market:

The 2011 Audi Q7 TDI

Best Diesel SUV - Audi Q7

Scores highly on safety aspects, and is highly stable at high speeds and has an impressive interior that exhibits quality workmanship. The third seat row, unfortunately, is cramped and the SUV has no DVD entertainment system to speak of. It is also quite hefty with a small cargo capacity.

The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $50,900 and comes equipped with a 3.0L turbo diesel V6 engine that is capable of producing 225hp and an impressive torque of 405 lb-ft. It is capable of accelerating from 0-60 mph in 8.6 secs and can tow 6,600 pounds without breaking a sweat. Its fuel economy is 17/25/20 mpg for city driving/highway cruising and a combination of both.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

Best Diesel SUV - Mercedes-Benz M-Class

It is available in hybrid and diesel engine types, has an exquisite interior and comfortable seats. The electronic controls are quite fussy and quite expensive for its segment. Its hybrid version does not really live up to its stipulated fuel efficiency. Its MSRP is $49,700 and has a 3.0L V6 turbo diesel engine whose technology is recognized in 50 US states. It is capable of 400 lb-ft torque and 210hp. 4Matic and 7speed automatic transmission are standard features with an acceleration of 0-60mph in 8.5secs. Its fuel economy is 18/25/21 mpg in cities, highways and a combination of both.

Fuel economy is the biggest consideration for buyers looking for the best diesel SUV in the market according to fueleconomy.gov. This could explain why more manufacturers are investing heavily in developing more efficient diesel engines.