Honda to introduce a new 3.5 liter V6 diesel by 2010

[shovelhd]

I just can't see this engine in a Ridgeline with the VTM-4 system. Too much torque. It would need the SH-AWD system which would put the truck over $40K. Good luck selling that.

[Jenskp]

I wouldn't think twice about that. 3.5 diesel should be a rocket and the SH-AWD awesome!

[csimo]

I know the media has said the V-6 diesel will be 3.5L, but I just don't think that's the case. I don't know anything for sure, but I think it will be a smaller displacement engine.

3.0 - 3.3 liter displacement is what I'd bet on.

[shovelhd]

Because of the limitations of the VTM-4 system?

[csimo]

Originally Posted by shovelhd

Because of the limitations of the VTM-4 system?

No, not the VTM, but we have to look at the design purpose of the engine.

If the Ridgeline gets this engine it will be after the MDX and Odyssey. The engine is designed as a passenger vehicle engine to get excellent fuel mileage. It is not a medium/heavy duty diesel engine designed for towing or heavy hauling.

The low end torque of a diesel results in an exceptional driving experience. A 3.0L diesel in the Ridgeline would be much better to drive on a day to day basis than the current 3.5L gasoline engine. It would also get about 30% better fuel mileage.

Honda has a history of getting high output from smaller engines. I just don't think Honda will develop a 3.5L diesel V-6. I really think we'll see a 3.0L engine actually show up in 2011 for the MDX and 2012 for the Ridgeline (hopefully).

[pjratchford]

Well they do have the diesel CRV and Accord in England. I really like the CRV mileage at 55mpg, 5000lbs tow rating, but of course diesel is jumping 11 cents a liter tomorrow to $1.55 [ multiply x 3.8 for US or 4.5 for old Canadian gallon ] The price bump isn't as bad as GM and Ford, more like VW where the diesel choice is a $1800. or so option....still like mine but I blast around in the Miata or Civic since reg fuel it $1.35 a liter.. Still wondering about a quiet exhaust upgrade...TKS PRatch

[25 Year Honda Owner]

Looks like Ford is going to put a diesel in their 2010 F-150:

Ford F150 Diesel - 2009 2010 Ford 4.4L V8 Diesel Engine

[carolinaridgeline]

Can someone compare and contrast the VTM drive system in my Ridge to that of the SH-AWD?

[Jet Pack]

Originally Posted by carolinaridgeline

Can someone compare and contrast the VTM drive system in my Ridge to that of the SH-AWD?

Without going into details, the way I understand it, SH-AWD not only distributes power front to back but also side to side, without having to apply brakes to the wheel with less traction.
Like I said this is how I understand it, I could be wrong. Make your own conclusions by looking at these links.
Someone please clarify my statement if it's off or completely wrong.



Acura's Super HandlingAll-Wheel Drive - MSN Autos

Acura.com

Acura.com

[VFR750]

Originally Posted by 2Hondas

They claim a 30 % improvement in mileage, but right now here, diesel is 20 % more expensive than gas, giving a real 10 % improvement. If they would look at a smaller displacement diesel, they could improve the mileage more, and still give more torque than the Ridgeline has now.
I read an article in one of our lubrication magazines about the use of 98+ octane gas for direct injection gasoline engines. According to the article, this would give mileage improvements close to diesel. I can't seem to get the article off of the internet to paste. Of course, making 98 octane would increase prices even more.

Diesel Fuel is almost $1 more verses 87 here in CT, which is right at a 25% price premium. Add in the $3-4K increase in the vehicle cost, the +30% isn't enough to make me want one.

Too bad. I'd like a turbo diesel for the torque. Maybe a big hydraulic clutch and a 5-speed with low range.