Will this type of use avoid DPF issues?

Simon42

Simon42

Simon42

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11 Dec 2006
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I am in the market for a reasonable size used estate or saloon and have been looking at Audi A6 (possibly A4) and BMW 5 series so far.

I like the Audi A6 (current style) but almost every example with a more powerful engine is a diesel, so my usual preference for petrol given my mileage doesn't seem an option. The 3L diesels are great to drive but I am concerned about possible DPF issues as I only do around 8 to 10K per year. Of that mileage my daily commute is around 11 miles with around 7 on the motorway each way.

Does that daily commute seem enough to keep me clear of DPF issues in conjunction with the odd 20+ mile drive a couple of times a month?

If not then any recommendations for a good A6 alternative with 200BHP+ petrol engines?
 
I thought that would be the case. It's a shame that when I finally come to get myself a good car, diesels with DPFs are the main option :(

Just searched on AutoTrader for a 5 series with applicable criteria and nationally there are almost 20 times more diesel than petrol for saloons and for estates 1 petrol, 159 diesel. Changing cars may be a harder task than I expected!
 
Does any one have any thoughts on the Audi 2.0TFSi engine?

I've found an A4 Avant with that engine but am still considering an A6 3.0 TDI. I just keep getting tempted by the extra cabin space and newer look despite the possible DPF problems.

I can accept that the powers that be force DPFs on diesels, it's the lack of petrol alternatives from manufacturers that surprised me. With the A6 there's just a 2.0 petrol hybrid or a 4.0 V8, butt a total of 7 diesel engines.
 
I am going to take the risk with a diesel A6 as I really like the car and the 3.0 diesel is such a relaxed drive. If I buy another make/model I'll be forever wondering.

If I do get issues then I'll try switching cars with my other half when she's got longer journeys. Fingers crossed this works out!
 
An update for those pondering a diesel (or limited by availability) and concerned about the DPF issue:

Well I went ahead with an A6 3.0 Tdi and over three months on I've not had the DPF warning show so far. So with this engine at least the shorter commute and lower mileage is working out well. Fuel consumption is 35+ on my commute, just over 40 on slightly longer trips and no less than 30 around town (these are calculated from pump use as the trip computer appears to under estimate fuel use by 5 to 10%)

It's a nice engine to drive and amount of torque is great. I've since driven a 3.0 TFSi petrol A6 and I like both in different ways, but I think my next purchase will just be an even more powerful diesel Audi or BMW. All that power for so little fuel :)
 
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