We were shown by GM how great diesels were in the late 70's when they converted gas burners to diesel. They had a small problem breaking crankshafts and such. Really gave diesels a bad reputation. Then jokes about sounding like a garbage truck.
I believe emissions has something to do with it now. That's why in the last year or so, the US has gone to an ultra-low sulfur diesel formula. It may make it easier to certify a diesel emissions legal now.
