Growing up around lots of diesel cars of all shapes and sizes, the American aversion to the fuel still puzzles me; I mean the diesel is oftentimes the more sensible engine choice for many cars, and there really is no reason not to buy something like the new Audi A7 TDI, if you’re not necessarily looking for sporty thrills and just want the looks, the cruising ability and the well-finished cabin.
The CNET review of the car that’s posted after the virtual jump is a bit too critical, and aside from the buggy lane-keep assist, it’s the engine that gets the most criticism.
However, if it’s anything like the Audi V6 TDIs that I’ve experienced, I don’t see where it’s coming from, because aside from a bit of cold idle rattle, they’re all silky-smooth and very rapid for their power output – the A7 with a 3.0-liter diesel with 240hp reaches sixty in 5.5 seconds.
And besides, complaining about diesel idle noise is a bit ridiculous, when all new direct-injected petrol engines sound nearly as bad. In the end, the A7 TDI will by no means be a volume seller in the US, though, I think it should be given more of a chance than it currently is (if you can get past the $2,400 premium, that is).
By Andrei Nedelea
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