Without a doubt, diesel enthusiasts were waiting with baited breath as the seemingly Draconian 2007 diesel emissions regulations went into effect. There were near-apocalyptic predictions of the "end of diesels as we know them," astronomical price tags for diesel engine options (which appears to be at least partially true), and drastically reduced power outputs. Not to mention all the Cassandras crying and beating their chests claiming that this will mean the end of diesel aftermarket performance tuning.
Granted, I believe there will be an adjustment period for both consumers and the aftermarket to become better-acquainted with this new crop of diesels, but I don't think '07 is going to mean the end of diesels by a long shot. GM just announced power output on the '07 LMM Duramax in the Sliverado and Sierra. A healthy 365 horsepower and 660 lb./ft. of twist. A gain of 5 hp and 10 lb./ft. respectively. Likewise, the new 6.4 Power Stroke and 6.7 Cummins are no shrinking violets either with 350 hp/650 lb./ft. each.
GM is claiming a reduction of 50 percent in NOx emissions, and 90 percent in particulates. This is achieved partially through the nationwide rollout of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel, but also an aggressive particulate filter.
Yes, on the surface, it may seem like diesels are getting choked and emasculated by the new regulations and "wimpy" fuel. But just look at the output ratings. They speak for themselves. And remember that not all that long ago, diesels were rolling straight off the showroom floor with basically nothing between the exhaust manifold and the tailpipe but a muffler. Not long before that, gasoline-powered cars were belching lead-ridden emissions into the air without restriction. Once catalytic converters started to be mandated, many predicted the end of performance as we know it. But yet we still have the 505 (net, not gross) horsepower Corvette Z06 that achieves 26 miles per gallon on the highway while meeting LEV standards (mandatory for any vehicle sold in California).
Sure, there's nothing like the theatrics of a tricked-out truck at a tractor pull belching out opaque gobs of black smoke of Biblical proportions. But let's be honest with ourselves. Would we really want the streets and highways of American crawling with these smoky beasts? As long as we can keep the benefits of diesel, which in my mind are exceptional economy, torque and durability, without the drawbacks (excessive emissions, noise and a perceived environmental menace), I'm all for it.