Jeep Introduces Diesel Grand Cherokee for 2007

While Volkswagen is being forced to curtail its diesel offerings for 2007, Chrysler is expanding its lineup of models that run on the higher-mileage fuel. Today the company announced the 2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD with a 3.0-liter common rail turbodiesel — hence the term “CRD” — goes on sale in early 2007 and will be available in Laredo, Limited and Overland versions.

The engine, built by Mercedes-Benz, will produce 215 hp and 376 pounds-feet of torque; estimated mileage is 19 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. The current V-8 Grand Cherokee with similar torque and towing capacity gets 15/20 mpg. The CRD will also produce 20% less carbon dioxide emissions when compared to a standard gasoline engine. Expect news on a final price closer to when the CRDs reach dealerships. We’ll keep you posted.

[Source: DaimlerChrysler]