2009 Audi Q7 TDI US Pricing Released

Prices for Audi's first clean diesel vehicle for the US market were released today by the German manufacturer. Scheduled to arrive to dealerships by the end of the month, the 2009 Q7 TDI will have a MSRP of $50,900. Prices do not include a destination charge of $825, taxes, title or dealer charges, but the vehicle qualifies for a $1,150 Alternative Motor Vehicle Credit, according to the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.

"The moment has arrived for clean diesel to be seen as an immediate answer to America's energy challenges. 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," Johan de Nysschen, Audi of America said in a release.

The 2009 Q7 TDI provides 30 percent better fuel economy than gasoline engines of similar size, translating into 25 mpg (9.4l/100 km) in highway driving and a range of more than 600 miles (965 km) on a full tank. The Q7 TDI also gets an EPA-rated 17 mpg in city driving (13.8l/100 km) and combined fuel economy of 20 mpg (11.7l/100 km).

Q7's 3.0l V6 engine develops 406 lb.-ft of torque, 50 percent more than a similar V6 gasoline engine. Yet, thanks to the advanced exhaust emission control system, the Q7 TDI puts out into the atmosphere some 25 percent less CO2.

The system found on the Q7 TDI is praised by Audi as being "the world's cleanest diesel system". It was designed to meet emissions regulations in all U.S. states, including the California Ultra-Low Emissions Vehicle (ULEV II).