Oil Crash: Audi, Volkswagen Discounting Old 3.0-liter TDI Models

Volkswagen’s 3.0-liter diesel V6 isn’t returning to the U.S. anytime soon. After forking over roughly $25 billion in the wake of its diesel deception, the company’s not exactly enthused about getting back into the compression ignition game. But that doesn’t mean buyers aren’t.

Europhiles with a penchant for low-end torque can still get their hands on a diesel Volkswagen or Audi SUV that meets federal emissions standards. And, thanks to new discounts, they’ll stand to save some money.

Earlier this fall, after two years of waiting, VW Group received approval from the Environmental Protection Agency for a 3.0-liter diesel fix. That meant newer VW Touareg and Audi Q7 models with the updated version of the oil-burning V6 could undergo repairs and return to owners’ driveways, or to the dealer sales lot.

Now, CarsDirect brings us news of a series of discounts offered on 2014-2016 models.

At VW, how much a buyers saves off MSRP depends on model year. For 2014 Touareg TDIs, of which few remain, the automaker is offering 25 percent off MSRP. For 2015 models, it’s a 20-percent discount. 2016 Touaregs that accumulated on dealer lots before VW issued a stop-sale order can now be had for 15 percent off MSRP. Going by current inventories, it’s a 2016 model you’re most likely to find. (Note: the discount does not factor in the vehicle’s destination charge.)

This spring, VW rolled out another raft of quiet discounts on repaired and compliant 2.0-liter diesel models that remained in dealer inventory.

At Audi, the brand’s 2015 Q7 TDI is marked down by 20 percent. There’s also a financing deal on offer (1.9 percent APR for 66 months or 2.49 percent for 72), with returning Audi customers handed a $1,000 bonus if they let Audi Financial handle the transaction.

VW’s 3.0-liter diesel also found a home in Porsche’s Cayenne, but there’s no word on whether that automaker plans to offer special pricing on unsold TDIs.

[Image: Volkswagen Group]