I'm disappointed about the 4.5, as well. While I'm not ready to buy a new vehicle, yet (hopefully another Sub), I was really looking forward to seeing that new engine in the market.
On the other hand, I'm optimistic that we will start seeing more diesels in NA. BMW, for one, recently announced that they're bringing a 3 series diesel to the US. I'm not sure if Merc currently has one available in the US, or not - but their Bluetec diesel is only about a $1,000 option over gas - the last time I checked, anyway. Here's another interesting thing: greencar.com recently announced their pick for the 2009 Green Car of the year - guess what? It wasn't a hybrid - it was Jetta diesel! Here's the link: http://www.greencar.com/articles/vw-...n-car-year.php
1998 K2500 Suburban 6.5L TD 3.73 rear, Ron Schoolcraft 18:1, Kennedy ECM & IC, Timing gears, Splayed main caps, 3.5" Kennedy Exhuast/No Cat, K&N Filter, Boost/Tranny Temp/EGT(Pre Turbo), Ceramic-coated Manifolds, 195 Stat's, 265/75's (VSSB Adjusted) 7,000lbs (on a scale) Remote Mount Oil Filter, Remote Oil Pressure Sensor