Chrysler announces that the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee will come with the option of a compression ignition engine
New jobs and a new Jeep diesel
Earlier today, the Chrysler Group issued a press release which included the announcement that it would be “adding a third crew and 1,100 new jobs at its Jefferson North Assembly Plant in Detroit (JNAP).”
But that same missive also included even better news for Jeep enthusiasts looking for improved fuel efficiency and, more importantly, higher torque: that the company would be “expanding the Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup to include a diesel version for North America.”
2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee
Yes sir boys and girls, you heard it right. For the first time since 2008 when it was dropped from the lineup, customers will have the option of ordering a 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee with a compression ignition engine.
Although Chrysler has yet to release any specifics on the diesel, there’s a pretty good chance it will be one that’s currently under the hood of Jeeps running around Europe – an iron block, aluminum head, dual overhead cam 3.0-liter turbo diesel V-6 that generates 237 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a stump-pulling 406 lb.-ft. of torque between just 1,800 and 2,800 rpm.
In addition to its prodigious torque, an added advantage of the diesel will be its fuel economy of 8.3 liters per 100 kilometers – upwards of a 28 mpg equivalent based on the European fuel economy cycle. This compares to just 23 mpg highway for Chrysler’s Pentastar V-6 or 20 mpg highway for the 5.7-liter V-8, currently available in the Grand Cherokee.
Availability
Expect to see the newest diesel Grand Cherokee arrive in Jeep new car dealer showrooms in 2013 with new car prices being released just prior to its introduction.
