A lot of people remember the disasterous GM automotive Diesels that were, basically, converted gas engines. A reliable Diesel has to be designed as such from the start, and GM tried to cut corners. I'm sure many people still shy away from Diesels because of the GM disaster.
Modern Diesel cars produce virtually no smell or smoke. The only way you can be sure you're behind one is the badge on the back.
Performance is still the only real drawback but if that's not an issue, then Diesels are a very viable option nowadays.
Exactly right..I had one of those GM hybrid diesels..3 transmissions in 3 years..an entire new engine at the end..and it sold for junk..GM really did a disservice to the truly great diesel engines...
"Modern Diesel cars produce virtually no smell or smoke. The only way you can be sure you're behind one is the badge on the back."
Or if the driver lays into it, accelerating hard and causing an "overfueling" condition. Then black smoke pours out of the tailpipe.