Carmakers the world over are using lower compression ratios, common-rail fuel-injection and super-efficient variable-vane turbochargers to build smaller, more efficient diesel engines that make the same or more power than their predecessors at less cost to both customers and the environment.
Case in point: Kia SA has just released the latest version of its family MPV, the seven-seater Sedona VQ (VQ - Very Quiet? Visually Quaint? Vertically Qualified? Virtually Quixotic?) which replaces the previous 2.9-litre diesel model with a new 2.2-litre, common-rail turbo-diesel that it says is good for 143kW at 3800 revs and 436Nm from 1800-2500rpm - with less noise and fewer emissions.
There's only one transmission option - a new six-speed autobox with what Kia has named “neuro-fuzzy artificial intelligence” - an adaptive routine that measures engine load and revs, throttle position and road speed, and, most importantly, the rate of change of these parameters, to “learn” how you are driving today and adapt the shift points accordingly.
QUICK SHIFTER
It also has an advanced powertrain control unit (a biker would call it a quick-shifter) that partially closes the throttle and retards the timing for a split second to take the load off the gears in the transmission and then swops cogs while the 'box is idling, for the smoothest and quickest possible gearchange.
That's great for the engine, but what about the driver's comfort and convenience?
The Sedona VQ comes with Bluetooth connectivity, controlled from a button on the steering wheel, a new six-CD front loader with built in MP3 and USB ports and an electric powered tailgate, operated either by a switch in the tailgate or from the remote.
BOTTOM LINE
The Sedona VQ retails at R419 995, which includes a five-year or 100 000km warranty and a five-year or 100 000km maintenance plan - and (while stocks last!) the first few customers also get a free Jurgens trailer and towbar valued at R13 000.