2009 Audi Q7 TDI

Consumer Guide averaged 25.8 mpg during our test of the 2009 Audi Q7 TDI.

A new turbodiesel engine joined the Q7 SUV family for 2009. The 221-horsepower 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 pairs with a 6-speed automatic transmission and achieves an EPA fuel-economy rating of 17/24 city/highway mpg.

Consumer Guide had the opportunity to test the new TDI on a Chicago, Illinois to Denver, Colorado road trip and averaged an impressive 25.8 mpg. In contrast, we also tested a Q7 with the 3.6-liter V6 and averaged 17.1 mpg and CG's road test of the 4.2-liter V8 yielded a disappointing 12.8 mpg.

Click here to read about Consumer Guide's participation in Audi's TDI Mileage Marathon.

Only Q7’s reserves of spunky power and subtle engine tick give away that it’s a diesel. It shares its gasoline counterpart’s composed road manners and first-rate interior and may be the quietest diesel on this list. The TDI sounds like a conventional V6 during idle and acceleration, with only a bit of the telltale clatter heard outside the vehicle.

One more diesel red flag is its price. The 3.0 TDI stickers for $50,900, which may seem steep considering the 3.6-liter V6 model starts at $43,500. However, the TDI is loaded with standard features like Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive, heated front seats, wood interior trim and leather upholstery, an iPod adapter, wireless cell-phone link, power liftgate, hill descent control, dual-zone automatic climate control, steering wheel radio controls, and headlight washers.

Click here for our full review of the 2009 Audi Q7 TDI.