Jim Jackson

Times Auto Writer

It was 70-years ago that German automaker Mercedes-Benz first used the combustion principle pioneered by Rudolf Diesel in a passenger car engine.

Today, Mercedes escorts the next-generation of diesel engine to North America with the arrival of the ultra-clean and fuel-efficient BlueTEC diesel.

First introduced with the 2007 Mercedes-Benz E320 BlueTEC sedan, is joined by the automaker's 2009 GL320, ML320 and R320 BlueTEC sport utility vehicles.

Mercedes BlueTEC is a modular system that includes an oxidation catalytic converter and a maintenance-free particulate filter coupled to a water-based urea solution for reducing nitrogen oxide emissions making BlueTEC the cleanest production diesel engine built in the automotive industry.

"What started as a cautious revival has now developed into a new diesel success story for us," said Thomas Ruhl, director, Mercedes R-Class, SUV Hybrid and BlueTEC. "Our SUVs have an average share of as much as 21-percent - a figure already well over the average market share of 14-percent forecast by J.D. Power for the U.S. in 2017."

BlueTEC technology provides exceptional vehicle power and torque without the engine 'rattle' sound typical of competitive diesel engines. BlueTEC vehicles run quietly with no engine noise intrusion into the cabin.

Mercedes' BlueTEC V-6 diesel engine generates 210-horsepower and 398 lb-ft of torque -- a potent combination to satisfy a full compliment of passengers, cargo and towing needs.

Passenger capacity of the Mercedes ML320 BlueTEC model comfortably carries five occupants while the GL and R320 versions manage six- to seven-passenger capacity with easy access to the adult-size third row seat. Leg room is generous in all BlueTEC model seating.

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC ML and GL models have a cruising range over 600-miles at highway speeds -- 506-miles for R320 BlueTEC -- without sacrificing comfort, performance or the environment. Fuel economy reaches 18-mpg around town and 24-mpg on the expressway.

Mercedes-Benz is the first automaker to receive certification for registration of diesel-powered vehicles compliant in all U.S. states.

The 2009 Mercedes-Benz BlueTEC sport utilities arrive in showrooms this fall with retail prices starting at $48,125 for a ML320 BlueTEC and $48,825 for the R320 BlueTEC model. The GL320 BlueTEC ups the ante to $57,625.