Chrysler adds diesel engine to light-duty Ram

DETROIT Chrysler is adding a diesel engine to its light-duty Ram pickup truck lineup. The company is promising the best fuel economy of any full-size pickup in the U.S.

Chrysler wouldn't release exact mileage figures, but spokesman Nick Cappa says the three-liter, six-cylinder diesel engine will beat the 25 mpg the current gas-powered V-6 gets on the highway in the Ram 1500. The six-cylinder Ram is tops in the industry for highway mileage.

The company says the new turbocharged diesel makes 240 horsepower and has 420 foot-pounds of torque. Chrysler says the 2014 Ram will be the only light-duty diesel pickup on the market.

The diesel will cost $2,850 more than a Ram with Chrysler's Hemi V-8 engine. The 2014 Ram will start at $24,200, excluding shipping costs.

Chrysler is scrapping a 4.7-liter V-8 engine in the Ram for 2014.

Chrysler does plan to offer a big 6.4-liter gas-powered V-8 engine in its heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 Ram pickups.

The pickups will arrive in showrooms In the fall. The diesel version will reach dealerships in the fourth quarter.