Can Chevy’s new Cruze Diesel help change the negative perception of diesel cars in U.S.?

By Marcus Amick April 22, 2013

The new Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel could prompt more Americans to consider buying a diesel who might not have ever considered it as an option before.

While widely popular outside of the U.S. market, a lot of Americans probably still have a negative view of diesel vehicles despite being aware of the potential fuel savings.

Even with all the advancements made in the technology, the image of pulling up to a light and hearing a truck rumbling with a diesel badge is probably a more accurate picture of what a lot of middle Americas think of diesel cars.

I’d be willing to bet that many American consumers have no idea that luxury carmakers like Mercedes-Benz and BMW now offer diesel-powered sedans in the U.S. And if they do, it probably means little considering that the cars are out of their price range.

I’m not even sure that a lot of Americans know that Volkswagen offers a very affordable diesel in the U.S.

However, with a starting price just under $26,000 and an estimated EPA-of 46 MPG on the highway, the diesel technology tied with a highly-recognized American nameplate like Chevrolet could change that.

Chevrolet-Cruze (rear) — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Available in some U.S. cities in early Spring, the new 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel is powered by a 2.0L turbo-diesel engine that gets an estimated 148 horsepower (110 kW) and estimated 258 lb-ft of torque (350 Nm).

The diesel model, which generates 90 percent less Nitrogen Oxide (NOx) and particulate emissions when compared to previous-generation diesels, also has an advanced overboost feature that helps to increase torque to 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) for stronger acceleration in driving situations like entering freeway traffic.

Equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Cruze Diesel has an estimated range of 700 highway miles on one tank of diesel fuel based on the EPA highway estimate and the vehicle’s fuel tank capacity.

The new 2014 Chevrolet Cruze Clean Turbo Diesel, which Chevy claims has the best EPA-of any other non-hybrid passenger car in America, has an estimated range of 700 highway miles on one tank of gas.

That’s about 10 hours of highway driving, which I suspect will spark a lot more interest in clean diesel technology in the U.S.

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Virtual Reality

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Marcus Amick has been writing about the world of cars for more than ten years and has covered everything from new automobiles…

Cars

Rivian R2 vs Hyundai Ioniq 5: Should you wait for the Rivian R2?

Rivian R2

Rivian has taken the wraps off of the Rivian R2, an electric SUV that's similar to the much-loved R1S, but smaller and, crucially, cheaper. But the R2 goes up against some serious competition. The likes of Hyundai have been building solid EVs for some time now -- including the Hyundai Ioniq 5.

The R2 and the Ioniq 5 each make a compelling case for themselves, and they're likely to end up being similarly priced if the Ioniq 5 doesn't get much cheaper and the R2 does end up being sold at $45,000. To be fair, the cars are pretty different -- the R2 is more of an SUV, while the Ioniq 5 is much more crossover-sized. But because of their similar price, you might be deciding between the two. How do they compare? We put the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 head-to-head.
Design
The differences between the Rivian R2 and the Hyundai Ioniq 5 are perhaps no more apparent than when it comes to design.

Cars

The 6 best remote car starters in 2024

Best car remote starters

While some modern vehicles come standard with remote start features, it's still relatively uncommon. That's a shame because if you live somewhere where cold weather, snow, and ice are frequent concerns, a remote car starter is one of the best auto accessories you can have. If you're not familiar with them, a remote car starter works similarly to a key fob, except it will actually start your car from a distance instead of just unlocking the doors or trunk. That means you can start your car from the warm comfort of your home or office before venturing out. If you live somewhere hot, you can even start your car and let the AC run for a little bit. You'll never enter a freezing cold or scorching hot vehicle again.

The best remote car starters have long ranges, replaceable batteries, and other handy features — but how do you know which is best for you? We’ve compiled a list of the best car starters in a range of prices and features. Keep in mind that while you can install some yourself, some will require a professional.
The best remote car starters in 2024

Cars

The best portable jump starters for cars in 2024

The Clore Jump-N-Carry JNC660 portable jump starter connected to a truck battery.

Any time you hit the road, whether you're taking a short or long trip, it's a good idea to have backups handy. A spare or backup tire, some anti-freeze, windshield wash fluid, a road hazard kit, and, last but not least, one of the best portable tire inflators and a portable jump starter. You never know when cold weather, inadvertently leaving the dome light on, or plain old Father Time can curse you with a dead battery. Ensure you have one of the best portable jump starters that can save you in a jam, kickstarting your car even when there isn't anyone around to jump the battery. Naturally, that's why we’ve rounded up what we feel are the best portable jump starters for 2024.
The best portable jump starters in 2024

Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter overall.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter runner-up.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter and tire inflator combo.
Buy the if you want another name-brand option.
Buy the if you want the best portable jump starter for cheap.