It seems that the car companies have got together recently and decided to make their cars look ridiculous by pasting stickers on them.
Toyota has done it with its Prius and Audi put some on its latest A5, the 3-litre diesel version. They were so enthusiastic that they slapped one over the fuel gauge, sealing it off.
Of course, being German and diligent, it was no mistake. Audi is running a so-called 'mileage challenge' to launch the first-ever diesel car that it is selling in Singapore and it wants to show just how frugal it is. It almost seems like a good idea.
Then again, there is something weird about fussing over fuel consumption figures when you are (1) dealing with a $200,000 car and (2) expected to fork out $6,098 annually for road tax, of which $3,750 comes from a special tax levied on privately registered diesel cars.
Believe it or not, improved fuel economy was also a key point that Bentley made when it launched its updated Arnage. By the way, that is a million-dollar limousine.
The Bentley spokesman said that it was not the absolute fuel costs that bothered Arnage owners (obviously) but they 'enjoyed not having to stop so much for fuel'.
Maybe the same can be said for those looking at the A5 3.0 TDI.
In terms of equipment level and overall looks, the car is as per the 3.2-litre petrol version.
But because the TDI is more frugal, it can (theoretically) cover 900km before its 64-litre tank dries up - more than 200km over what the 3.2-litre petrol version can manage with a tail wind, down a slope.
Since we do not go on long romantic road trips every day, the extra range may be a moot point on our tiny island. So why even consider this costly but not much different A5?
Audi A5 Coupe 3.0 TDI Quattro
Engine: 2,967cc, 24 valve, V6 with electric motor Transmission: Six-speed automatic with manual select Power: 240bhp at 4,000-4,400rpm Torque: 500Nm at 1,500-3,000rpm 0-100kmh: 6.1 seconds Top speed: 250kmh Fuel consumption: 14.5km/L (combined) Price: $206,800 with COE Distributor: Premium Automobile
It is torque. With 500Nm of twist spread from 1,500rpm to 3,000rpm, the engine does not need to be worked or stretched to shift the car.
Casual plods at the accelerator are met with strong forward surges so you do not have to rush the engine to deliver the goods.
It surfs ahead effortlessly. That you do not have to visit the petrol station every week is a bonus.
stlife@sph.com.sg
The writer is the editor of Torque published by SPH Magazines.
