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Audi Q7 TDI changing perception of dieselNew model reduces emissionsJoshua Wolpe, DDN Staff WriterThursday, May 28, 2009 | |
The redefinition of a word and its connotation is no simple task. When we hear the word “diesel,” many of us immediately think of big tailpipes, bigger trucks and dark smoke.
One of three newly redesigned Audi models, the “Q7 TDI Clean Diesel,” is being marketed to dispel that stereotype. Audi’s mantra for their new fuel technology is a clear message: “Diesel - it’s no longer a dirty word.”
In this case, there seems to be some truth in advertising. According to recently released statistics from the company, the 3.0-liter, V6 engine produces approximately 25 percent less carbon dioxide than a traditional gasoline engine of a similar size while getting 25 mpg on the highway and a range of over 600 miles on a full tank.
“The moment has arrived for clean diesel to be seen as an immediate answer to America’s energy challenges,” said Johan de Nysschen, President of Audi of America, in a statement. “With the Q7 TDI, Audi is clearly demonstrating that luxury car buyers do not need to sacrifice progressive styling, comfort or performance to see fuel economy gains.”
Crossing over and super charged
Along with the Q7, Audi has two more new releases; the Q5, which seeks to combine sports performance with enough room for a family of five, and the A4, an innovatively updated design that makes one of the carmaker’s most popular vehicles more fuel efficient while increasing power.
The Q5 is offered with a 3.2-liter, V6 engine, Quattro all-wheel drive and six-speed Triptronic transmission. In addition to the performance features, the Q5 comes with all the bells and whistles one expects from Audi: a Bluetooth system that allows you to sync your mobile phone with the vehicle’s computer system, a full MMI Navigation system, a music interface that offers integration with any ipod, and a Bang and Olufsen sound system that includes 14 speakers.
Audi’s new model of its four-door sports sedan, the A4, features a number of changes to both the body and the engine. The new A4 has a stronger, stiffer chasis, along with the same aluminum suspension as the A5, which they say gives it “track-like handling.”
Audi has also re-routed the steering between the front wheels in an effort to achieve more balanced handling. The 2.0-liter A4 gets 27 mpg on the highway.
More information and pricing
The Q7 TDI starts at $50,900, the Q5 at $37,200, and the A4 at $33,050.
Visit Prestige Imports at 9201 W. Colfax Ave. in Lakewood for more information.
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