US Diesel Model Count Set to Double for 2014 Model Year
Nissan, Audi and Chevrolet lead a surge in diesel offerings, with the US market expected to see around 40 diesel models by the end of the 2014 model year.
The number of diesel-powered cars and trucks available to US buyers is expected to double during the 2014 model year, with manufacturers including Nissan, Audi and Chevrolet driving the expansion. Industry sources forecast around 40 diesel models on sale by the end of the model year, compared to roughly 20 in the previous cycle. This marks a significant milestone for diesel technology in the US, which has seen fluctuating popularity over the decades.
Diesel Models Set for Major Growth in the US for 2014
Key Manufacturers Expanding Diesel Offerings
Several major manufacturers are leading this resurgence. Nissan’s decision to add a diesel option to its full-size Titan pickup is particularly notable, as it represents the first time a Japanese manufacturer has offered a diesel in this segment for the US market. Chevrolet has already launched a diesel version of the Cruze sedan, broadening the appeal of diesel beyond traditional truck buyers. Mazda is preparing to introduce a diesel-powered Mazda6, which will become the first Japanese passenger car diesel in the US. Meanwhile, Volkswagen and Audi, already established as diesel leaders in the US, are expanding their line-ups further. General Motors is also expected to broaden its diesel offerings, with speculation about future diesel versions of the GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado pickups.
- Nissan Titan pickup (diesel option added for 2014)
- Chevrolet Cruze Diesel sedan
- Mazda6 Diesel (US launch planned)
- Volkswagen and Audi expanding existing diesel line-ups
- Speculation around diesel versions of GMC Sierra and Chevrolet Silverado
Background: Diesel’s Decline and Comeback in the US
American buyers largely abandoned diesel cars in the 1980s, after a series of technical failures and negative perceptions around noise, vibration and emissions. Earlier diesel engines were known for being noisy, rough, and producing unpleasant-smelling exhaust, and several high-profile failures, particularly from General Motors, led to a sharp decline in consumer confidence. As a result, diesel models became rare in the US passenger vehicle market for many years.
However, diesel technology has improved substantially in recent decades. Modern diesels offer a real-world fuel economy advantage of around 30 percent over petrol engines, while addressing concerns about refinement and emissions. The introduction of cleaner diesel fuels and advanced emissions control technology has helped dispel some of the old stereotypes. These improvements have made diesel a more attractive option for American drivers, especially those looking for better fuel efficiency without switching to hybrid or electric vehicles.
Market Impact and Consumer Choice
Bosch, a major diesel systems supplier, has described the 2014 model year as the biggest boost for diesel in the US since the segment’s decline three decades ago. The company’s North American marketing director, Andreas Sambal, pointed to the increased range of models as a key factor in broadening consumer choice. With more than 40 diesel models expected to be available, buyers will have a wider selection than ever before, covering everything from sedans and SUVs to full-size pickups.
Despite the sharp rise in model availability, diesel cars and trucks still make up a small proportion of the US market compared to Europe, where diesel has long been popular. In the US, diesel models are still seen as a niche, but the new offerings are expected to attract buyers seeking improved fuel economy and long-distance driving capability. The expansion of diesel options could also appeal to those who want an alternative to hybrid or electric vehicles, particularly in segments like pickups and larger vehicles where diesel’s torque and efficiency are especially valued.
Recent Trends in Diesel Sales
US diesel car sales have shown signs of growth in recent years. For example, diesel car sales rose 27 percent in 2011 as new models arrived on the market. This increase reflects growing consumer interest in alternatives to traditional petrol engines, especially as fuel economy standards become more stringent and fuel prices fluctuate. The arrival of additional diesel models in 2014 is expected to continue this trend, although it remains to be seen how much market share diesel will ultimately capture in the US.
The doubling of available diesel models in 2014 is likely to be an important point for the technology’s acceptance in the US. If the new models prove popular, manufacturers may be encouraged to expand their diesel offerings even further, giving American consumers more options for efficient and capable vehicles.
