Well, the 2006 Engine of the Year winners have been announced. Let’s just say, “Ze Germans are coming!”

Notably absent is anything from North America. Though I’m struggling to suggest a motor that fits a category below and tops what’s already there. I mean, it IS hard to top the BMW V-10.

List is below:

Best New Engine 2006
Volkswagen 1.4-liter TSI Twincharger (Golf)

Best Fuel Economy
Toyota 1.5-liter Hybrid Synergy Drive (Prius)

Best Performance Engine
BMW 5-liter V10 (M5, M6)

Sub 1-liter
Honda 1-liter IMA (Insight)

1-liter to 1.4-liter
Volkswagen 1.4-liter TSI Twincharger (Golf)

1.4-liter to 1.8-liter
Toyota 1.5-liter Hybrid Synergy Drive (Prius)

1.8-liter to 2-liter
Volkswagen 2-liter Turbo (Golf, Audi A3, A6, SEAT Leon, Skoda Octavia)

2-liter to 2.5-liter
Subaru 2.5-liter Turbo (Impreza, Forester, Saab 9-2X)

2.5-liter to 3-liter
BMW 3-liter Twin-Turbo Diesel (535d)

3-liter to 4-liter
BMW 3.2-liter (M3, Z4 M)

Above 4-liter
BMW 5-liter V10 (M5, M6)

International Engine of the Year 2006
BMW 5-liter V10 (M5, M6)

Check out Edmunds for the full scoop and more links & pics.

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(Credit for the image goes to Octamog.com - see link below)

Isn’t that just the coolest thing with locking diffs? What’s this got to do with Jeeps? Well, let’s see if I can make the connection:

~ The Octamog has four Dana 60 axles
~ I knew a guy once who had one Dana 60 rear axle under his Jeep

Now, for truly entertaining reading, check out these specs for the Octamog:

* Esarco SS-300 (Stewart & Stevenson) 8×8 with front and rear steering axles
* Isuzu/GMC Medium Duty cab
* Cummins 6-cylinder inline turbodiesel with intercooler
* Displacement 5.9L (359 cu.in.)
* Performance (projected) 250-300 hp.
* Max. torque (projected) 500-600 lb.-ft.
* Eaton/Fuller FS-4005 5-speed manual gearbox with crawler gear
* (2) Fairfield 2 speed transfer cases with street (1:1) and cross country (2.21:1) ratios
* 8×4 or 8×8 drive, engagable
* Heavy-duty Dana 60 Axles with 3.54:1 final drive ratio
* ARB Air locking differential on all axles with Warn locking hubs on axles 1 & 4
* Interco Irok Radial Tires (39.5×13.50R17LT)
* USA6X6 Wheels 17×11in. modular steel with stainless-steel rock-rings
* Recirculating ball hydraulic assist steering
* Chassis battery capacity (t.b.d.)
* (2) 32 U.S. gallon fuel tanks (64 gallon total)
* Fuel prefilter with water seperator
* Recaro seats with air suspension
* Additional seat for 3rd person
* Garmin Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) navigation system
* Integrated air-conditioning
* Additional safety locks for drivers cab
* Roof rack with branch guard
* winch for loading of spare tires
* Truck horns
* Off-road lights (t.b.d)
* Milemarker 12,000 lb. electric winches front and rear

Full details on the Octamog available here.

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Well, it’s about time Jeep made the right move, I think, and brought us North Americans the diesels they offer across the pond.

Latest up on the list of “I wants” is the Jeep Commander 3.0 CRD.

Same engine as seen in the Grand Cherokee 3.0 CRD, just in the upper-end (like the Grand is a stripper) model.

Just think of being able to drive normally and have 30%+ better fuel economy than the Hemi can give. Man, THAT would make a difference.

Come to think of it, if overall SUV and truck sales are down, why aren’t all the automakers even trying to get diesels moving over here - they have them in Europe, and I’m willing to bet if they moved even one model over here, it’d would be a hit with today’s fuel prices.

Come on guys - give me a reason to WANT to buy your products again!

Anyway, read the road test on the Commander 3.0 CRD here.

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Well, if you’re up for a good time with other Jeepers and you want the family to be included, Camp Jeep is a great idea.

Here’s some info on the 2006 Camp Jeep.

2006 Camp Jeep
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DaimlerChrysler is recalling 6,876 of the 2006 Jeep Wranglers equipped with 6-speed manual transmissions because of potential problems with the clutch.

The automaker reports the hydraulic clutch master cylinder rod may break, making the clutch difficult to disengage when the pedal is depressed.

The broken clutch could prevent the Jeep from moving, lead to increased stopping distances and engine stalling.

DaimlerChrysler has received 17 complaints from Jeep owners about the clutch but no reports of crashes, injuries or property damage. Owners also are expected to be notified of the recall later in the month.

DaimlerChrysler is also recalling 45,000 Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger and Dodge Magnum sedans with 2.7 liter engines because leaking brake fluid may cause an engine compartment fire.

The vehicle’s exhaust recirculation pipe may touch the brake lines causing brake fluid to leak and setting a fire.

DaimlerChrysler reports nine incidents involving engine fires but there are no reports of crashes, injuries or property damage.

DaimlerChrysler will inspect the rear brake lines for damage and replacement if necessary. The automaker will also install a clip on all the vehicles to secure the brake lines and maintain proper clearance from the exhaust system.

The recall will begin later this month.

In both recalls, the vehicles will be repaired at no charge to owners.

OK, now I don’t know about the rest of you, but issues like brake lines and hot exhausts are the sorts of things automakers should be expressly looking for during design and production. I’d be interested to learn more about the design processes for these systems and see if it’s the product development path that allows defects like this to reach production vehicles, or if it’s more the result of following a pre-planned cycle that aims to keep things like this ‘within acceptable limits’ as developed by testing in a lab somewhere.

Sorry DC - but this is just crap. Props for not pulling a Ford and suggesting the problems don’t exist, though.

Been slow on the Jeep news lately, so let’s just take a look at this new rig and offer some opinions…

Shout out to Mike at Jeep News Now for first posting the pic in our world.
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OK, whether this is an “Unlimited” version, as originally suggested is open to debate. Doesn’t look that much longer in the rear end.

Regardless, it is what it is. A spiffy new ride for Jeepers to lust after. Or not.

I mean, I’m used to driving long-wheel base Jeeps offroad. They’re different than Wranglers - not as nimble. Sure the longer rigs are better on hill climbs, check out that break-over angle. If the 2007 Jeep Wranglers have low t-case skid plates like the older Wranglers came from the factory with, it’ll make for LOTS of noise on the trail.

Now, since even Jeepers spend most of their time on-road, I’m sure the payoff in very much increased ride comfort will be a no-brainer for most.

Besides, the lift kits on the market, or due out shortly, will give you the space you need between your underside and terra-firma. Slap on 33’s and be done with it. Reminds me of my Cherokee and Comanche, in fact.

Damn, now I want a 4 door Wrangler Rubicon, too.

Well, they’re at it again.

Land Rover outfitted a bunch of rigs and asked if there were any crazy people handy who’d maybe like to “drive” them part way around the Earth…

Back in the day it was known as the Camel Trophy - today, it’s G4.

No matter the name, it’s some of the most intense offroading you’ve ever seen, and it’s a cinch you’ve never had to deal with the things these guys encounter.

Often times the route planners simply state, “We’d like to go from here to there” and draw a line on a map. That then becomes the route. No road? No matter. The Landies can certainly handle the slogging provided the team is up to the challenge. Rivers, deep mud, bugs, trees are daily obstacles…every day…for months…think of that next time you’re sitting on a Sunday trail ride waiting for one Jeep to get winched out of a ditch.

If you’ve ever wondered who the best offroad drivers in the world are, now’s your chance to see them in action…

The following nations will be represented during the 2006 Land Rover G4 Challenge:

Argentina, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Chile & Costa Rica, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, South Africa, Spain, Russia, Taiwan, Turkey and United Kingdom.

Damn, why doesn’t Jeep do something like this?

A bunch of links:

G4 Challenge Home Page
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Is this really a challenge?
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Vehicles and specs
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2006 Jeep(R) Jamboree Season

WINDSOR, ON, April 25 /CNW/ - Experience the go anywhere, do anything sensation during the 2006 Jeep(R) Jamboree season sponsored by the Jeep brand.

The series of five Jeep Jamborees held across the country from June to August, 2006 are the ultimate in off-road adventures.

For over fifty years, Jeep owners and their families have participated in these four-wheel drive week-ends of fun. This year participants can choose from spectacular trails in Nova Scotia, Quebec, Ontario and British Columbia.

“Jeep Jamborees are a fun, safe and environmentally sensitive way for a family or enthusiast to enjoy the full capability of their Jeep vehicle,” said Judy Wheeler, Vice President, Marketing, DaimlerChrysler Canada. “Whether
driving a Jeep Wrangler, Commander, Grand Cherokee or Liberty, we encourage owners to take the Jeep Jamboree challenge. And don’t forget your camera!”

Jeep Jamboree trails range in ratings from two (the least difficult) to nine (the most difficult) and are designed to accommodate all skill levels. For those that are new to off-roading or who need a refresher course in off-
road techniques, Jeep 101 is offered at the base camp of each event. Nearly 500 vehicles and 900 enthusiasts participated in the 2005 Jeep Jamboree season.

Each event is limited to approximately 100 vehicles for environmental reasons and interested Jeep owners are encouraged to register early. The cost to participate is $535 for a family (2 adults and 2 to 3 youths), $235 per
adult, $110 per youth (ages 7 to 15), $70 per child (ages 3 to 6) and no charge for children under three. Discounted, early-bird rates are available until April 30. All registration fees include seven meals.

2006 Jeep Jamboree Canada schedule:
- Annapolis Valley - Kingston, Nova Scotia, June 23 - 25
- Kawarthas Weekend No. 1 - Bobcaygeon/Buckhorn, Ontario, July 7 - 9
- Kawarthas Weekend No. 2 - Bobcaygeon/Buckhorn, Ontario, July 14 - 16
- Penticton - Penticton, British Columbia, August 4 - 6
- Knowlton - Knowlton, Qu�bec, August 18 - 20

To register for a Jeep Jamboree weekend or to obtain additional information, log on to www.jeepjamboreecanada.com or call 1-888-678-JEEP(5337).

About Jeep
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The vehicle currently offered as the Jeep TJ in Canada, will become the 2007 MY Jeep Wrangler when the all-new, from the ground up, model comes to market in the fall of 2006. The new Jeep Wrangler, unveiled at the 2006 North American International Auto Show, will continue to meet its mandate of being the most capable off-road vehicle in the world - and more.

Jeep’s global lineup now includes Jeep Commander, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty, Jeep Compass, Jeep Patriot, the legendary Jeep Wrangler and the all-new Jeep Wrangler Unlimited.

The Jeep brand continues to gain momentum in Canada, with 2005 sales up 10.9 percent over 2004. There were 28,303 Jeep SUVs sold in Canada last year compared to 25,521 in 2004.

DC is adding three more models to their ethanol-capable category. Two of these will be Jeeps - the Commander and Grand Cherokee. The Dodge Dakota will also get the option.

DC has committed to offering at least one quarter of their fleet to the general public with the flex-fuel option by 2008.

Chrysler offers several other models with engines capable of burning ethanol, including the Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country minivans, Dodge Stratus, Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Durango and Dodge Ram pickup.

Ethanol, also known as E85, is a fuel usually made from corn that’s touted as a renewable source of energy and an alternative to petroleum-based gasoline. Flex-fuel engines can run on either E85 or gasoline.

For Earth Day, DaimlerChrysler Shows Commitment to Renewable Fuels
. DaimlerChrysler has sold nearly 1.5 million flexible fuel vehicles capable of running on E85
. DaimlerChrysler has approved use of 5 percent biodiesel in the diesel-powered Jeep Liberty CRD
. Beginning with the 2007 model year, DaimlerChrysler has approved use of 20 percent biodiesel in the Dodge Ram Heavy-Duty diesel pickup trucks operated by government, military and commercial fleets

Auburn Hills, Mich., Apr 19, 2006 -

DaimlerChrysler offers diesel and flexible fuel vehicles that can run on clean, renewable, American-made alternative fuels.

Renewable fuels, including ethanol made from corn and biodiesel made primarily from soybeans, help to:

- Reduce tailpipe emissions of pollutants
- Reduce emissions of carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas
- Reduce dependence on oil
- Support the nation’s agricultural economy

Since 1998, DaimlerChrysler has sold nearly 1.5 million flexible fuel vehicles (FFVs) designed to run on E85 fuel, a fuel made up of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent conventional gasoline.

Beginning with the 2008 model year, DC will produce nearly 500,000 FFVs per year for sale in the United States.

Current vehicles capable of running on E85 fuel are:

- Dodge Stratus/Chrysler Sebring with the 2.7-liter engine
- Dodge Caravan/Grand Caravan with the 3.3-liter engine
- Dodge Durango and Dodge Ram 1500 with the 4.7-liter engine

DaimlerChrysler is also promoting use of biodiesel, a fuel made from the vegetable oils from crops such as soybeans.

Biodiesel can replace conventional diesel fuel, reducing dependence on oil. The Jeep Liberty CRD diesel-powered SUV is filled with B5 (5 percent biodiesel) fuel at the assembly plant in Toledo, Ohio, and B5 is approved for use by all Jeep Liberty diesel customers.

Beginning with the 2007 model year, the company will approve use of B20 (20 percent biodiesel) fuel in Dodge Ram Heavy-Duty diesel pickup trucks operated by government, military and commercial fleets. The company is working with industry partners to establish a national standard that would enable all diesel vehicle owners to use B20 fuel.

“Biofuels are proof that at least part of the solution to our energy, environmental and national security issues can be homegrown,” said Tom LaSorda, President and CEO - Chrysler Group.

This is good news folks - this is the way of the future, so the automakers might as well get on board now and start the work of enabling end users the choice and ability.

One note of caution to diesel owners:

If you are not currently using biodiesel, be very careful if you try to switch over. Biodiesel has some properties which make it very much like a solvent.

Over time, your regular diesel fuel leaves deposits in the fuel system. Biodiesel can loosen these, flush them out and lead to a non-running engine due to clogged fuel lines and/or filters. They typical rememdy is to flush the fuel tank out, purge the lines and re-fill the tank - not cheap or quick.

If you’re already using biodiesel, you can skip the worrying and know your lines are clean.