OT: Are there ANY decent Diesel options in NA?

[cinema]

I was in a head on collision over the weekend and I'm pinching myself hourly to make sure I'm still here. I need to find a new daily now.

I want something versatile with good torque and can do unpaved roads, and 20+ mpg, reliable as my Toyota daily was. I know this is impossible, but maybe I'm missing something. I don't have any psychic guilt about diesel as I mostly ride everywhere. What I don't want is a 20 year old diesel with 200k miles on it that has a ton of blow by and gives me cancer through the firewall.

I am mainly a yota purist. The camp vehicle is a cherokee XJ but it's constantly in project mode and I can't keep driving it around running up the clock. I don't want to debate the diesel environmental positions people have so if you have a strong negative or positive opinion about it please refrain. The best option is certainly the 3.0 diesel discovery but it's fairly new and zero on the used market right now.

[AngryScientist]

you're looking for what type of vehicle?

as far as trucks go, unless you need the big motor for towing or REAL hauling, i wouldnt even bother with any diesels offered in NA at this point. too complicated for not enough benefit.

just buy a tacoma. :)

[AngryScientist]

by the way cinema, i'm glad to hear you are still here and obviously able to type. head on collisions sound scary as hell.

[cinema]

thanks angry. still pretty shook up. truck-ish but wagony i would consider as well. tacos are ok but underpowered relative to what i'm paying. i'd like a 4runner/GX/prado style vehicle without the mpg hit and diesel style torque. impossible i know. the problem with buying used 'reliable vehicles' like toyotas is once you get them the previous owner hasn't done jack **** to keep up with basic maintenance because 'it's a toyota lol'. that's why i don't like buying private party toyotas, they're a pain in the ass to work on and expensive. haven't made up my mind yet, just want something different. most previous owners are oblivious and lift them and do terrible jobs on them, here in california there's a cult of toyota people who couldn't remove an air box if you gave them an entire shop outfitted with snap on.

[AngryScientist]

ahh, i missed the point that you want to go used. taco's are out then. people have such a high opinion of them that resale values are ridiculous.

for years my used trucks have been Grand Cherokees. They are cheap on the used market and pretty decent. if you're into decent torque, consider finding a clean hemi WK. the hemi is, what i would consider a pretty reliable engine if well maintained, good torque and overall power, and will get decent MPG if you keep your foot out of it, especially highway, the bigger V8 is unstressed at 70mph and can run pretty efficiently. obviously good offroad.

[hollowgram5]

There are plenty. I've got a list I can make (update) for you shortly.

07-08 Grand Cherokee CRD (Mercedes motor, pre-DEF)
2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ecodiesel
2014-2016 VW Touareg
Up to 2016 Audi Q7
Audi Q5s

Edit:
Audi A6,7,8 sedans also came with the 3.0L TDI as an option, included AWD, and premium prestige (I think) packages had heated and cooled seats on the option list.
Porsche Cayenne came with the same diesel motor as the above mentioned VW/Audi vehicles.

I believe BMW offered theirs in the 5 series, and maybe even the X5.

Chevy/GMC have the Colorado and Canyon available with a diesel motor. I think there's a version the one of their SUVs as well (Traverse?).

Ford has the F150 with a diesel now too.

Dodge runs the Ecodiesel in the Grand Cherokee in the Ram 1500 as well.

/edit

Prices in the used car market vary a lot, I know the Jeep's were offered in limited, overland, and summit levels and either come with a few package options.. most commonly they also included adaptive cruise control and ride height adjustable suspension.

I drove a buddy's 2014 GC with the diesel motor and it pulls like a tractor even when trying to pass on the highway. I was definitely impressed.

It's still on my shortlist of vehicles to replace my Golf TDI, but the lady just picked up a '14 Jetta Sportwagen TDI.

Also, I'll echo what Nick said. Glad you are still with us; those sorts of incidents are never fun and bring an extra level of stress.

Feel free to PM if you want some more details on what all I've driven that's diesel powered and want to get into further specifics.

[MrCannonCam]

There are plenty. I've got a list I can make (update) for you shortly.

07-08 Grand Cherokee CRD (Mercedes motor, pre-DEF)
2014-2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Ecodiesel
2014-2016 VW Touareg
Up to 2016 Audi Q7
Audi Q5s

Prices in the used car market vary a lot, I know the Jeep's were offered in limited, overland, and summit levels and either come with a few package options.. most commonly they also included adaptive cruise control and ride height adjustable suspension.

I drove a buddy's 2014 GC with the diesel motor and it pulls like a tractor even when trying to pass on the highway. I was definitely impressed.

It's still on my shortlist of vehicles to replace my Golf TDI, but the lady just picked up a '14 Jetta Sportwagen TDI.

Also, I'll echo what Nick said. Glad you are still with us; those sorts of incidents are never fun and bring an extra level of stress.

Feel free to PM if you want some more details on what all I've driven that's diesel powered and want to get into further specifics.


All of these have turbo's....none are NA

[sfscott]

I'm on my second BMW x5 diesel. L O V E it. great torque and really good mileage.

[Ken Robb]

My pal is a used car dealer/broker and part-owner of a used RV/trailer lot. He has been buying used GMC/Chevy V-8 suvs with 150,000 miles and driving them over 200,000 without spending much on maintenance/repairs. They are so cheap that 18mpg doesn't hurt much. The ones he gets here in SoCal still look very nice at 200,000 miles too with no rust.

[hollowgram5]

All of these have turbo's....none are NAI would agree, I read the title as NA=North America rather than Naturally Aspirated.

[MrCannonCam]

I would agree, I read the title as NA=North America rather than Naturally Aspirated.

Ah quite an easy mix up. Not to jack the thread but I have a Golf TDI as well. Love it to death, really don't love the industry wide DEF issues though...

[tv_vt]

BMW 328 sedan/wagon is out there with a diesel - just look for a 328d.

Tons of VW Golf and Sportwagen TDIs out there now with the 'fix.' Haven't driven one after the mod, but loved our TDI Golf before we sold it back.

[Gummee]

BMW 328 sedan/wagon is out there with a diesel - just look for a 328d.

Tons of VW Golf and Sportwagen TDIs out there now with the 'fix.' Haven't driven one after the mod, but loved our TDI Golf before we sold it back.

They make the X5 (maybe the X3?) in a diesel as well.

Ditto with the 5-series sedan

Personally? NA went the way of the dodo at the MB 240d. ...which was slower than molasses in Jan

M

[sokyroadie]

Dodge ram Diesel 2019 - The standard-duty model is rated at 370 horsepower at 2800 rpm and 850 lb-ft at 1700 rpm; the high-output version clocks in at 400 horsepower and 1000 lb-ft at 1800 rpm.


Sorry couldn't resist - I have a 2005 with 250K plus and still looks and runs almost like new - around 18 MPG, but I can tow pretty much anything:hello:

[djdj]

I'm on my second BMW x5 diesel. L O V E it. great torque and really good mileage.

+1. My wife has one (late 2016). Super reliable.

[Gsinill]

I'm on my second BMW x5 diesel. L O V E it. great torque and really good mileage.

If an X5 is an option, I'd throw out the Cayenne Diesel as well.
Just replaced my wife's 2012 X5D with one and must say it's a major upgrade in almost all aspects.
Most significantly when it comes to the engine: more refined, quieter and much better MPG.
On top of it, the extended warranty due to Dieselgate is more than a nice to have.

[Gern]

About 10 years ago, I was looking for a Tacoma or 4-Runner -- diesel LC or Rovers available, alas. I really wanted one. I was, however, put off by crazy used prices (and inflexible dealer pricing at the time) and poor fuel economy. I decided that a domestic diesel p/u would give me better economy and payload for less money. I had some worries about reliability, but I went ahead. I will also note that range was a concern, as I had visions of "overlanding" at the time.

My data points -- 2004 Dodge Cummins 3500 SLT SRW -- lift/35's, 5.9l 325hp/650lb/ft. The truck was excellent off road (AZ desert), good mileage despite big tires and lift. 20+ mpg highway is easy, 24 was my highest, but I can't keep anything under 60mph for long. I owned the truck for 5+ years and did a water pump and AC compressor. I did oil and fuel filters myself -- very reliable for me. The best part for me is that diesel pickups without crazy high miles retain value very well. I traded this truck on my newer truck after 75k miles and five years for about $1500 less than I paid for it.

Current truck, 2014 RAM 2500 Cummins Laramie Mega cab, 6.7l, 395hp/800lb/ft, now with 54k miles. This truck is much better on highway (coil suspension), at the cost of off road ability due to wheelbase. The mega cab is great for passengers and travel, but you end up on a long bed chassis. That said, the truck has spent a lot of time in dirt and rocks in AZ, and it does surprisingly well stock. It has ventilated seats, good stereo, etc. It can do 22-23 mpg highway 65mph or under; mileage decreases with speed. I usually get about 20 -21 at my typical freeway speeds. This truck has also been very reliable.

The newer truck uses DEF. The system has been seamless in operation, and I like that the truck does not smoke. I get about 1400 mpg for DEF, and the tank holds 5 gallons. The key is to get the DPF up to high temperature rather regularly. The truck is now out of warranty, so I may get a tuner so that I can force a regen from time to time. The new Ford Super Duties evidently can do this stock.

Both of these trucks tow exceptionally well. I got 14.5mpg at a 67mph average with an 9000lb load towing across the country last spring. Range unladen, with on board fuel, for both trucks is about 600 miles. I like that. Other than fuel filter service, two batteries to replace and greater oil capacity when it comes time to change, I haven't seen much difference in service costs. Transmission, differentials and T-case service intervals are the same as gas trucks.

Overall, I have been quite pleased. I like diesel trucks, and the newer domestic interiors are very good. If the size works for you, the vehicles are worth considering.

[Andy sti]

My 4cyl diesel has been awesome!

https://i.imgur.com/4WHAtVl.jpg

[cinema]

thanks for all the recommendations. I'm a bit of a peasant so i wasn't even thinking euro luxury vehicles but the x5 looks really great just wish i felt more comfortable working on it. if i felt solid about it's reliability. my father had a 3 series about 15 years ago that just started dumping coolant in the middle of the street and super-overheated the engine which killed it only a few years after buying it new off the lot.

Gern, have you had any concerns with the quality of your dodge trucks? being a jeeper i am totally turned off by Chrysler regardless, their quality is garbage. Every jeep i've had I basically rebuild slowly with superior aftermarket parts because it's all straight trash from the factory. i love the idea of a dodge cummins though despite the size. the diesel grand cherokees have been on my radar for a long time but i don't trust em maybe i should go take a look at one. they're rare and owners usually selling them for a reason other than trying to free up cash.

my daily is always toyota for reliability but we just bought a rav 4 for my wife's daily, so i'm feeling a bit adventurous.

[Gummee]

thanks for all the recommendations. I'm a bit of a peasant so i wasn't even thinking euro luxury vehicles but the x5 looks really great just wish i felt more comfortable working on it. if i felt solid about it's reliability. my father had a 3 series about 15 years ago that just started dumping coolant in the middle of the street and super-overheated the engine which killed it only a few years after buying it new off the lot.

Gern, have you had any concerns with the quality of your dodge trucks? being a jeeper i am totally turned off by Chrysler regardless, their quality is garbage. Every jeep i've had I basically rebuild slowly with superior aftermarket parts because it's all straight trash from the factory. i love the idea of a dodge cummins though despite the size. the diesel grand cherokees have been on my radar for a long time but i don't trust em maybe i should go take a look at one. they're rare and owners usually selling them for a reason other than trying to free up cash.

my daily is always toyota for reliability but we just bought a rav 4 for my wife's daily, so i'm feeling a bit adventurous.

There are a ton of DIY threads on the BMW forums. They aren't any kind of voodoo magic: the basics are still the basics.

Pelican Parts or BavAuto for parts and away you go

M

[cinema]

There are a ton of DIY threads on the BMW forums. They aren't any kind of voodoo magic: the basics are still the basics.

Pelican Parts or BavAuto for parts and away you go

M


the 2009 looks really nice from some initial googling. it's supposedly an inline 6 that makes 420 torque. ok i'm listening.

[Gummee]

the 2009 looks really nice from some initial googling. it's supposedly an inline 6 that makes 420 torque. ok i'm listening.

I'm on my 2nd BMW and will likely buy another here soon.

Going back to the E46 because I miss the engine in my 2002 328i. MAN! was that a fun car to drive

M

[Meisen]

No VAG products? The fixed/later model TDIs can be found here and there. We had a Sportwagen TDI which was about as close as you can come to a perfect small family/sporty/efficient vehicle around, EPA fraud notwithstanding.

600 miles on a full tank of diesel, great handling, surprising pickup and happy to cruise at 90 mph all day while still putting out high 40s mpg.

We were considering ignoring the buyback on our high mileage 2010 and getting ours fixed....however the moonroof jammed and the $1K repair bill along with other assorted wear and tear issues made us reconsider. Then they upped our offer to $13,500....felt stupid to walk away from that on a car with $3000-4000 in repairs pending. But I'd buy another.

[72gmc]

disclaimer: I'm not an equipment auction veteran or endorser by any means, but my dad has been purchasing at equipment auctions for decades. He just picked up a GMC 4x4 crew cab diesel to pull his trailer. It's in very good condition and he feels it was a very good price.

I liked auctions when I was a kid because he'd let me climb up on the biggest bulldozer I could find.

[jimcav]

the diesel grand cherokees have been on my radar for a long time but i don't trust em maybe i should go take a look at one. they're rare and owners usually selling them for a reason other than trying to free up cash..
My wife has a 2015-16, i love it, and she loves it except she has had to take it in 3 times because she only has to get the kids to school 2-3 times a week (car pool) and run errands within 3 miles, so she has not achieved the highway speed/duration for the regen or whatever. After the 3rd time the service guy told her to plan a highway drive periodically somewhere to avoid this. For anyone with a normal commute or weekend plans, i would not hesitate--it hasn't had any other issues and just goes in for oil changes and tire rotation. my wife dislikes having to drive somewhere just because it is good for the car, so she toys with trading it in, but hasn't pulled that trigger. if you are in north san diego area and want to link up--perhaps a mtn bike ride? I'd be happy to let you take it for a quick spin.
jim

[cinema]

My wife has a 2015-16, i love it, and she loves it except she has had to take it in 3 times because she only has to get the kids to school 2-3 times a week (car pool) and run errands within 3 miles, so she has not achieved the highway speed/duration for the regen or whatever. After the 3rd time the service guy told her to plan a highway drive periodically somewhere to avoid this. For anyone with a normal commute or weekend plans, i would not hesitate--it hasn't had any other issues and just goes in for oil changes and tire rotation. my wife dislikes having to drive somewhere just because it is good for the car, so she toys with trading it in, but hasn't pulled that trigger. if you are in north san diego area and want to link up--perhaps a mtn bike ride? I'd be happy to let you take it for a quick spin.
jim

Wow that is so kind of you. How many miles are on it? I’d say I’d be down for a road ride pretty soon but my back is really all bent out of shape due to the accident and it’s only been getting worse.

Doctor said it will get worse up to two weeks before it gets better and then if it doesn’t we would move forward with imaging and stuff. I don’t like going to the doc I’ve been in a lot of mtb and road accidents always recouperate though. Lived with fractured rib for months just not agitating it and it cleared up eventually.

[likebikes]

north america? surely there are some diesel options in mexico?

[cinema]

north america? surely there are some diesel options in mexico?

Recently I came very close to buying a minty Mitsubishi pajero with the 2.4L turbo diesel in Mexico. I think it was a good price but I talked myself out of it really kicking myself for that one. What a mistake

[dan_hudson]

Surprised no one has mentioned the new Colorado. Turned my 2.0 TDI buy-back $$$ and a low mileage Nissan Frontier into one a little over two years ago. Very pleased. The 4 cyl Duramax has been bomber so far (knock on wood). No towing for me but, working in project management, regularly visit worksites needing clearance + 4-wheel drive, put in pretty big miles (+25k a year), throwing crap in the bed, etc. Regularly getting +30 mpg in mixed driving.

Now over 50k miles, starting to get to the point where durability will reveal itself but, again, very pleased.

Only real downside is the expense - is a crazy expensive option over the gas version. The the improved mileage alone is paying for itself in my case.

[572cv]

My second hand 2014 328d wagon has been a nice ride. No major issues, but only 60K at this point. I understand the NOX sensor is an expensive repair, but just got a notice that the warranty has been increased to 120K. Not many of these around, but a good choice if you find one. As a reminder, any diesel is likely to be less sensitive to climate concerns, though.

[jimcav]

Wow that is so kind of you. How many miles are on it? I’d say I’d be down for a road ride pretty soon but my back is really all bent out of shape due to the accident and it’s only been getting worse.

Doctor said it will get worse up to two weeks before it gets better and then if it doesn’t we would move forward with imaging and stuff. I don’t like going to the doc I’ve been in a lot of mtb and road accidents always recouperate though. Lived with fractured rib for months just not agitating it and it cleared up eventually.

I quit road riding 2 yrs ago. Don’t really miss it but do miss the fitness it gave me. I enjoy mtn biking much more but far harder to find the time to get in similar shape on trails. I hope you heal up. My only advice is listens to your body and don’t push to soon. I broke 3 ribs in 2017 and the initial X-ray was read as negative and so 3 days later I tried to ride telling myself I was being a baby and just needed to push through. That lasted until the first hill. I double check mileage on it. I will say we test drove the Chevy Colorado diesel and there was no comparison in ride feel, acceleation, noise, or cabin quality. If u need a truck bed it is a diff story. I have a Ram 1500 4x4 hemi and love it, but no one prefers going anywhere in it over the jeep...