Most savvy auto enthusiasts are long used to the fact that many of the world’s most interesting cars, especially the kind that burn diesel fuel, are only available outside of the U.S. That notion may be in need of a revision though, as the European Union is preparing to adopt emissions standards that are more similar to ours.

Jeep has announced an expansion to its diesel lineup in combination with a nice drop in price.

Chrysler will now offer the 3.0-liter V-6 Mercedes diesel engine in its entry-level Laredo model, and has dropped the price for the diesel package for the Limited and Overland models by $1,000.

That means customers can spec a diesel engine in a Grand Cherokee with a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds for the reasonable starting price of $35,685. Though the diesel variant Jeep won’t set the world on fire with its economy, 18 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway (that’s the 4x2, 17 and 22 mpg for the 4x4 version), with a range of 450 miles, there is nothing to shake a stick at in a vehicle of this size and ability.

Why did it take so long for Chrysler to add the diesel to the base Grand? Have your say in comments.

When Mercedes-Benz debuts the E-class wagon in 2010, one of the engine offerings will be a Bluetec diesel engine mated to an electric motor, the world’s first hybrid station wagon.

Fans of Volkswagen cars, diesel powerplants, and expediency will be disappointed to hear the Jetta TDI launch has been delayed.

Is there a real advantage to be gained by buying a diesel-powered car?