OK, the fuel economy benefits are obvious but how does an oil burner reduce emissions first of all, and then what makes it
 |
| The diesel engine would not only improve the SUV's fuel economy but also reduce emissions while making it a better off-road vehicle. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
better for serious 4x4 expeditions? To answer the former, the additional pollutants excreted by diesel engines are compensated by the engine not using as much fuel in the first place. The benefits do not follow an exact science, but overall there is usually about a 17 percent reduction in emissions. Depending on the diesel fuel itself, however, particulates can actually go up. By 2006 diesel fuel has to be refined to a new, much higher tolerance, which will dramatically reduce particulate pollutants, meaning diesel technology will become a lot cleaner here at home.
And why does a diesel powered SUV make a better SUV off the beaten path? Well, once again the word "better" needs to be defined. Conventional diesels won't make the
 |
| Taking into account better fuel economy and cleaner diesel fuel, there is usually about a 17 percent reduction in emissions with diesel engines. (Photo: Trevor Hofmann, Canadian Auto Press) |
1,400 horsepower necessary to jump Dennis Anderson's "Gravedigger" monster truck over a stack of cars and a school bus, but most outdoor adventurers adhere to the tread lightly philosophy as it is, so this won't be an issue. Diesel power not only delivers greater torque at lower revs than gasoline, the ideal scenario for crawling over rocky crags and fallen logs, but the improved fuel economy will allow adventurers to make treks farther into the wilderness before needing to turn back. A quick glance at the resale value of diesel powered Land Rover Defenders and rival Toyota Land Cruisers in your local classified ad section will show they are the popular choice among 4x4 enthusiasts.
And the LR3 is said to be an even more capable off-road vehicle than its superb predecessor, making the availability of a diesel even more advantageous.
