Lil4X

A modern, European-style, automotive diesel would certainly be an improvement over the hybrid design from the standpoint of reliability and economy. There are presently two problems in selling such a product in the US:

1. Lack of infrastructure - With the required low-sulfur diesel fuel just now becoming available, it may be a while before a reasonable distribution and delivery network exists. If you look at the current cost of high-sulfur diesel, it makes premium gasoline look like a bargain. Time may overcome these supply and cost problems.
   
   
2. Long memories - Plenty of Americans remember the 1978-1985 General Motors diesel debacle. A 350 CID diesel engine was built on the same production line as the gasoline 350. This manufacturing requirement produced a powerplant with far too many compromises - and resulted in an extremely negative experience in the marketplace. Initially popular, the Oldsmobiles that used this engine were fraught with problems and extreme warranty claims. Most were either repowered with a gasoline engine or junked after only a few years on the road. It's going to take a VERY brave automaker to re-enter the American automotive diesel market.

The performance of the 3.3L engine in the RX while not a pavement ripper is a considerable improvement over the small-block GM full-size SUVs. I owned several Suburbans through the 80's and 90's and performance ranged from glacial to substandard. Weight is the enemy here - 300+ horsepower and LOADS of available torque is great for towing, but because it has to struggle against three TONS of steel just to get under way from a standing start, it's not likely to win any stoplight grand prix.

On the other hand, the RX, particularly the 330, gains both acceleration and nimbleness from the reduced avoirdupois - not to mention some degree of handling. While not exactly a gazelle, the RX isn't a water buffalo either. Now, what I'd like to see is a big-block and RWD conversion for the RX!