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Top Used Diesel SUVs
2005 Jeep Liberty CRD
The 2005 Jeep Liberty CRD was put through a long-term test and the results were satisfying. This diesel powered SUV, which is also the most popular, came through with 21 miles per gallon with a 21-city/26-highway rating. This SUV also proved to be the best model in the test group with 25 miles per gallon over 220 miles. The 2.8 turbo-diesel inline four-cylinder with 160 horsepower allows for 295 pound – feet at 1,800 rpm. This combination allows the CRD to handle grunt work at low speeds as well as great highway passing power.
All diesels tend to lose power at higher speeds, and while the CRD is no exception, results were still acceptable. However, there were drawbacks to this SUV. With the 2 cylinder, the drive train adds about 300 lbs extra curb weight. It also adds seven-tenths of a second to the 0-60mph time. Noise was another problem for the CRD during the test. During idle at stoplights, the clattering can get as annoying as the delivery trucks in the next lane. Last, but not least, the CRD calls for a specific onboard fuel reformer in order to meet 2007 emissions standards.
The 2005 Jeep Liberty CRD is a major improvement over its 2002 predecessor. The newer model has improved suspension, power window switches, gauges, controls, and four-wheel drive. The cost of one of these diesel SUVs starts at $25,000 for the sports model and $27,520 for the limited model. (See http://www.usatoday.com/money/autos/reviews/healey/2005-03-31-liberty_x.htm)
2008 Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI
The 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI SUV costs a lot less than other luxury SUV's, while also providing an adjustable suspension and off-road mode. The bad news here is that the stereo does not display track information for CD's. The cable electronics and interface do not meet the standards of today's technology. This diesel SUV was also put to the test. The media center displays file names, but no song information about the CD or song being played.
There was a premium stereo upgrade made for the GL320, and while it does have a nice sound, it does not produce enough to fill the cabin. The navigation and other controls were standard and acceptable, but weren't anything special to brag about. The navigation system lacks text-to-speech capabilities, has a limited database, and poor map resolution. There is also a dedicated phone system, so no hands-free calling is available.
The DVD screens are placed well and have a good resolution; however, the player itself is placed under the seat. This makes it difficult to see, so users have to do everything by feel. The rear view camera is one of the best on the market, but it lacks overlay to show the driver how close the vehicle actually is to an object.
During the test of the 2008 Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI, we found it boasts a luxury interior with performance that focuses on economy over power. With a seven gear automatic transmission, the GL320 reached 4,000 rpm when the pedal hit the floor. Unlike its predecessor, the diesel GL320 did not make irritating, excessive noise on idle at stoplights. During a 189-mile trip through California's wine country, the GL320 got about 23.8 mpg.
This diesel SUV promotes a seven speed automatic transmission with a manual mode option that is activated on the back of the steering wheel spokes. The maximum rpm during the test was 4,500. Some options that can be manipulated from inside the vehicle are air suspension, descent control, and off-road mode for traction and stability control.
The base price for the Mercedes-Benz GL320 CDI is about $53,000. The premium package is an additional $8,600; the full leather package comes in at $2,100; rear set DVD system is $2,370; $700 for paint, and another $775 for the destination charge bringing the total to $67,855. The bottom line is that anyone who is looking for a luxury diesel SUV should try out the Mercedes-Benz GL320. It is the best in its weight class. (See http://reviews.cnet.com/suv/2008-mercedes-benz-gl320/4505-10868_7-32630867.html)
2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI
For a diesel SUV, the 2008 Volkswagen Touareg V10 TDI is not quite worth the base price of $77,880. However, the amenities are first class, and the interior is first rate. With an all-wheel drive system and 552 lb/ft of torque, there is an immense display of power from the Touareg diesel SUV. The self-leveling suspension on this vehicle masks the curb weight with a 7700-pound tow rating.
On top of the extremely high price on this diesel SUV, the engine only gets 20-mpg highway. Keeping in mind Volkswagen's history of bad electronics adds to discomfort at the thought of the TDI. This vehicle is much better than its curb weight suggests, but not as good as its price. Most people approach this vehicle with low expectations, but the features it offers are almost worth paying the hefty $77,880 price tag.
The TDI comes with the 4XMotion 4WD system, Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), four-corner air suspension with electronic shock absorbers, center differential lock, anti-slip regulation, six-speed automatic transmission, electronic differential lock, and optional rear differential lock. 19” alloy wheels boast 275/45/R19 all season tires as well as standard ABS, engine braking assist, and hydraulic brake assist. The interior of the TDI features a four zone climate control system, DVD, navigation, rear back-up camera, 6-disc CD changer, auxiliary audio input jack, and a park-distance control system.
The VW TDI diesel SUV has an MSRP of about $68,340, while one that is fully equipped will cost around $79,080. The engine is a 4.9-liter V10, and the suspension is control arms with air springs. Wheels on the TDI are 18x8, with front brakes at 13.8-inch discs and rear brakes at 13-inch discs. The TDI reaches the one-quarter mile mark in about 14.6 seconds. (See http://grassrootsmotorsports.com/new-cars/2008-vw-touareg-2-v10-tdi-twin-turbo/)
People flock to this vehicle because of the top-rate features, luxury, and comfort. Depending on budget and specifications, the VW TDI might be a little too much to afford, but for those who can, it is well worth it.
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