[350Zed]

Source:
http://www.leftlanenews.com/renault-...nd-europe.html

Originally Posted by LEFTLANE

Renault, Nissan launch new V6 diesel for U.S. and Europe

Renault and Nissan have officially announced the launch of a new V6 diesel engine that will see duty in U.S. and European models. The new 3.0L diesel powerplant is the result of a €180 million joint venture between the two automakers.

The 235 horsepower mill will be used to power Renault’s Laguna range, but will see a much wider application under the Nissan brand. In fact, Nissan is expected to make up about 75 percent of the engine’s use.

The new clean diesel is seen as a crucial element in Nissan’s quest to make its Infiniti brand a serious contender in the European market – a region where a very high number of luxury vehicles are equipped with diesel mills. “Having this new V6 diesel engine is a key part of the Infiniti launch in Europe,” Malo Le Masson, Nissan’s European product strategy and advance planning manager, told Automotive News.

The new engine will see limited production in 2009, but widespread use is expected to begin in 2010.

Nissan also confirmed the U.S.-spec Maxima sedan is earmarked for the diesel powerplant, but failed to give a launch date. However, the diesel-powered Maxima is expected to hit U.S. showrooms sometime in 2010.