For international use, I would want a diesel, but I just have a hard time seeing the diesel as such a boon to those remaining in the US.....
The only thing I'd like to throw in there is that the 2.8 VM diesel currently in the export Wrangler will not pass the new Euro emissions standards, and will never pass US standards. This engine is a dead-end and (I think) will soon vanish.
The 3.0 from VM/Motori, however, does pass the new Euro standards, according to rumors has already passed US testing, and is confirmed to be coming to the GC in 2013.
In the export GC, that 3.0 currently is tuned for 241 HP (245 in some variants) and 406 ft. lb. with 28.3 MPG (US) Combined.
I know the Wrangler is a different vehicle than the GC and has the aerodynamics of a brick, but I honestly see no reason this sophisticated turbo diesel can't get 30+ MPG highway and towards 25 city. I also hope the mileage wouldn't really drop too much for 4x4ing.
Then, I think you would have to reconsider your reasoning above.
Fingers are crossed.
-Dan
EDIT: I'll be very, very surprised if AEV don't at least attempt a conversion with this 3.0 into a Wrangler when it shows up in the GC. It could be a pain in the *** and a dead end like the older GC-> Wrangler diesel swap, but I feel like they will at least try. If it winds up in the export Wrangler, then it must be a relatively straight-forward swap, I have to imagine. If it can be done relatively easy, I see no reason they won't offer a conversion kit like the HEMI ones (unless they know Jeep is going to offer the engine from the factory in the near future...).. Of course, that's just my gut feeling.