Daimler just announced that three new Mercedes BlueTEC diesel models—the R 320 BlueTEC, ML 320 BlueTEC and GL 320 BlueTEC— will initially be available exclusively in America. Aside from the diesel engines, the new models are equipped with AdBlue urea injection, which helps achieve lower emissions; are able to exceed Tier2 Bin5 limits; and could "potentially" meet the coming EU6 standards.

The new V6 diesel engine produces 211 hp and 398 lb. ft of torque, and gets about 21 mpg on average. That doesn't sound like a whole lot, but given that the original models were all total gas hogs, it's an impressive number if it bears out in reality. The engine is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission in all three cars.

Autoblog went further in describing AdBlue: "[It's] a solution of 2/3 water and 1/3 urea that reacts with NOx to create nitrogen and water. The urea is contained in a 7-gallon (8.5-gallon in the larger GL) tank that should only need refilling about every 15,000 miles. In addition to the urea NOx treatment system, the trio also have diesel particulate filters to eliminate almost all of the soot."

Mercedes also claims that the three SUVs now include more standard equipment and safety features for 2009, such as refreshed interior and exterior styling, preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE and NECK-PRO head restraints, as well as a new, Mercedes-Benz developed telematic system. Look for the new models in American dealerships this coming fall.

Source: Daimler Global Media