Audi takes Green Car of the Year prize in LA

By Mark Nichol | Car Enthusiast – Fri, Dec 4, 2009 10:10 GMT

We're not even in 2010 yet, but that hasn't stopped Audi being awarded a prestigious Green Car of the Year 2010 gong for the A3 2.0 TDI.

The award, presented by America's Green Car Journal and now in its fifth year, has previously gone to the VW Jetta TDI, the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid and the Mercury Mariner Hybrid. According to Green Car Journal Editor Ron Cogan, "the Audi A3 TDI really defines what a 'green' car should be," adding "its clean diesel engine is quiet, responsive, and achieves its mission without the need for exotic technologies. Plus, it's sporty and just plain fun to drive."

The A3 is powered by a 2.0-litre 'clean diesel' TDI engine capable of over 50mpg but developing 138bhp and 236lb.ft of torque. It saw off competition this year from the Honda Insight, Toyota Prius and VW Golf TDI. Johan de Nysschen, President of Audi America, said: "We consider the Green Car of the Year title one of the most important industry accolades. It is of paramount importance for us to develop vehicles that achieve the very touchstones this award stands for - fuel efficiency and environmental impact."

 

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