Acura to Get Diesel Power

Acura announced at the Detroit auto show today that it will market a clean-diesel engine in North America beginning in 2009. The diesel engine, dubbed i-DTEC, complies with U.S. emissions standards even without having a separate urea storage system that would have to be refilled periodically.

Acura has not named which of its models will receive the diesel engine, but the MDX is a logical choice. The improved efficiency and low-end torque offered by diesels would be especially beneficial in that luxury SUV.

—Mike Hanley

Comments

[DodgeFan]

So what about regular Hondas. I wouldn't be interested in paying a premium for Acuras. But at least this is something different for the Acura brand that makes it different from Honda. I wonder for how long though.

[Troy in Ft Walton Beach]

I really hope this diesel engine migrates into the Ridgeline. It get's V-8 fuel economy with it's V-6 engine. More torque is needed.

[George]

http://www.hondanews.com/categories/793/releases/4394

It looks like it would go fine in the RDX, not the MDX.
A turbodiesel V6 would be perfect for the MDX.

[sjones]

While I understand the rationale of launching a newer and more expensive engine in a more expensive car, I think the evidence weighs against it. Take Jeep and VW's diesel experiences, for example: drop a diesel into an entry level vehicle (Liberty and Jetta) and it sells well. Drop a diesel into a high-end vehicle (Grand Cherokee Overland and Toureg) and they don't. The object lesson here is that diesels appeal primarily to economically-minded buyers, not luxury buyers.

This is great news for VW. They will be one only ones offering an entry level diesel (the '08 Jetta), which wil allow them to generate sales that could have been Honda's.