General Motors has offered diesel-powered cars all over the world sans North America over the years, but things are going to change next year when the company launches the Chevy Cruze diesel for the 2014 model year. And from the sound of things, advocates of oil-burners are going to be in for a treat. As will everyone who loves extraordinary fuel economy numbers.

From the little information General Motors has gone official with, we know that this Cruze will cradle an all-new 2.0L turbodiesel engine with a global engineering pedigree. Pretty much everyone is involved, as it’s being co-developed by GM’s Powertrain teams in Torino, Italy (Turin) and Pontiac, Michigan. GM engineers from Russelsheim, Germany are supporting the project by developing the accessory drive, acoustic cover and other specialized components. Additionally, the validation process at GM’s Lordstown, Ohio plant — where the U.S.-spec Cruze is built — began this past fall.

Now, going beyond the official record, we have learned that the Cruze diesel could very well end up being called the Cruze Eco-D, which is fitting. It’s also expected to come along with the Cruze’s planned mid-cycle refresh.

The biggest selling point for the Cruze Eco-D is this all-new engine. And while its power figures are still in the dark for the time being, engineers have targeted it for a 700-mile highway cruising range before needing to refuel. The Cruze Eco-D will have a 14 gallon tank. Do some math, and you’ll quickly realize that this range translates to a Prius-fighting 50 mpg on the highway. The official EPA ratings are still pending, however. To note, the VW Jetta TDI is rated at 42 mpg on the highway. Sounds like a knockout punch to us.