Both Volkswagen and DaimlerChrysler are well known for being practically the only two companies interested in offering diesel powerplants for passenger vehicles here in the U.S. That's why the news that VW is set to supply its native neighbor with 2.0L TDi diesel engines for Europe-bound Dodge Calibers is bit of a surprise.
It's surprising both because DCX should have a suitable diesel in its own range and a Caliber TDi won't be offered in the U.S. Why couldn't the Caliber just share the Jeep Liberty's 2.8L CRD? Instead these 2.0L TDi diesels will be shipped in a box all the way from Salzgitter, Germany to Chrysler's Belvidere, IL plant and then be shipped right back in a new box that's got a pair of high-beams and a chilled glovebox.
The engines are being supplied in order to fulfill a contract between DCX, VW and Mitsubishi that was drafter over two years ago. No word on whether or not we'll see a Mitsubishi wearing TDi badges anytime soon. Hmm... an EVO TDi.
[Source: Volkswagen]
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