Get your tickets to THE BIG THING 2026!
This points out that it's the total drivetrain package, not just the engine, that matters. The GMC's choices for transmission and rear end ratios made the difference.
The Sierra Denali 3500HD's performance advantage over the Super Duty is about as stark as the difference we saw in the power curves on the dyno. We believe it's because the Sierra Denali's calibrations at altitude are dialed in almost perfectly to match engine output. However, it seems that Ford still has plenty of room in the future to tune the 6.7 to tap its full potential at high elevations.
The rear axle ratios also played a role, but it wasn't many years ago that a 3.73 rear axle on the Eisenhower grade would have been considered a major handicap versus having a 4.30 back end. It seems that the recent power levels both engines have attained are helping to make up for mechanical workarounds in the driveline.
Corporate teammates VW and Audi are having success selling diesel powered vehicles. Audi just reported that diesel engines are under the hood in 70% of A3 sport wagon sales, and 45% of Q7 SUV sales. Audi plans to have diesel engine options available in all its models by 2015.
VW's diesel-powered Jetta Sportwagen TDI came out on top in a Consumer Reports test of non-hybrid cars that deliver high mpg. CR's test drivers recorded 49 mpg in highway tests using a 6 speed manual transmission. That's almost 17% better than the EPA's rating of 42 mpg highway.
My mom just bought a 2011 A3 TDI last weekend :victory:
They were so impressed with our 05 Jetta TDI that they had to have one, and my mom has always wanted a sporty wagen. Its a DAMN nice car.