Mercedes Offers New Diesel E Class

Mercedes-Benz will start selling the E320 BLUETEC luxury sedan starting October 15 in the U.S. The start date coincides with a new, low-sulfur diesel fuel going on sale across the country. The E Class was recently redesigned and the E320 BLUETEC produces 208 hp and an astounding 400 lb-ft of torque from a 3.0-liter V-6. Mercedes says the engine will get a combined 35 mpg. Emissions will meet current U.S. requirements in 45 states. Not included are California, New Yor, Maine, Massachussets and Vermont. The company expects new diesel models in 2008 to meet all 50 states' emission standards. Prices have not been announced but expect them near the same price as the gasoline powered E350's sticker of $51,325.

This move was a safer bet a few months ago when gas prices were soaring. Now that they’re dropping well below $3, it might be harder to get customers — especially luxury owners — to try a diesel. Still, we will say that today’s modern diesels are far superior to their loud and smelly predecessors.