Most savvy auto enthusiasts are long used to the fact that many of the world’s most interesting cars, especially the kind that burn diesel fuel, are only available outside of the U.S. That notion may be in need of a revision though, as the European Union is preparing to adopt emissions standards that are more similar to ours.
The diesel question becomes more important when we hear rumors that the one currently making the rounds about a diesel-powered Subaru WRX. Subaru has already said that it will be showing off diesel versions of its Legacy and Outback next month at the Geneva Motor Show, and now Australia’s Drive magazine is reporting that the company is “looking into” a WRX diesel.
By all accounts Subaru’s new 2.0-liter derv-burner is the cat’s PJs in the new Legacy, and with most car companies looking to improve fleet economy these days, a diesel WRX would seem to make a ton of sense. We’d certainly be stoked for a WRX oiler, but what do you think? Take a look at our standard WRX STI gallery below, and then have your say in comments.
+ Autoblog: Subaru may offer diesel version of WRX
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Ya know, the last gen WRX’s were cars that I didn’t like at first, and I grew to really like them.
This gen has so far been the opposite. I liked them at first, but have since really become unimpressed.
However, this sounds like a motor that could really have a place here in the States.
YES…YES…YES…have been saying for years that diesel needs to be offered stateside in some economical sports cars. I have a 04 wrx now, and love it, but I would love it even more if it had more torque, better fuel economy and a sweet oil burner under the hood.
If they build a diesel STI I would be in line to buy the 1st one (and I don’t even really like the style of the new gen WRXs but love the idea of diesel sports cars)
Think this would do well for the Subaru community as well (outdoor types, enviromentalists). Many Subaru owners are sensitive to enviromental issues and conservation efforts using Biodiesels, veg oil and other alternative fuels. If they can pass emissions then it should be a no-brainer.
Well, Mercedes Benz AMG is looking to do high performance diesels, why not Subaru, this would be an interesting vehicle to drive
I’d be in line. The WRX needs better low end torque, and the gas savings would be nice. I agree that it would help the keep those loyal to the brand within Subie community.
One of the biggest downsides to buying subaru is the fuel economy. This could help a LOT.
Also, if they could put it in a small SUV like the old samurai, it would be a killer.
Actually, the mileage is a good trait in Subarus. The Impreza WRX and STI just happen to do poorly. Consumer Reports rated the previous Forester as making 24 mpg–more than the Lexus RX400h.
I don’t see an Impreza WRX diesel as taking off, though. The Forester and the Outback however…
I’m interested. Especially if Mitsubishi makes a diesel powered eclipse inspired by the Concept-RA coupe…
[…] Subaru has released the pricing on its all-new redesigned 2009 Forester – which will arrive in dealerships in April. […]
Why consider diesel at all? Diesel prices are already too high in this country. Yes diesel is roughly a buck a gallon cheaper than petrol in Europe, comparatively speaking. But if we’re are expecting diesel prices to keep going up.. (does anyone see a price drop coming?)…why would dealers want to fill their lots with vehicles that are even more unattractive from a fuel standpoint?
I would love to see a diesel Forester or outback. I own a 04 turbo, 5-spd manual, forester. I LOVE that little car. However, when hauling my boat out of a steep and muddy boat ramp, I often think “I could use more down low torque and a 6-7 speed automatic. Also better gas mileage. My turbo wants to rid the world of unleaded premium!
I would also be up for an STi version of a Forester. I don’t want mine to be more “civilized” or like all of the other products out there. I may never sell my 04!
I think it would be terrific if Subaru came out with a diesel wagon. I have an Outback and the fuel economy is really poor. Having a diesel which provides good torque and good fuel economy may make me want to get another one otherwise I don’t think I would.
The naysayers will come on board quickly as gas approaches $ 5.00 per gallon. Oh, the oil burner is very quick, read further.
Why is the US so restricted with emissions? Think about it.
I am a three time satisfied Subaru owner. I love my ‘02 Forester and can hardly wait to stretch out in the backseat of an ‘09 Forester. But, I agree with Paul, why diesel now? As of this posting diesel prices are running $4.20/gal on either coast and not much less in the middle. I like the idea of the fuel economy and low end torque offered by a diesel engine but, let’s face it we don’t need another fuel crisis headache. Now if you want to turn a Forester into a hybrid or even a diesel hybrid I would be up for that. When we see mileage numbers from a Forester in the 40s and 50s I will be satisfied.
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