Switching to a diesel vehicle, specifically a 2015 GSW TDI with just 15,000 miles post-fix, was a decision rooted in fuel efficiency and longevity. However, like many car enthusiasts, the thought of enhancing its performance always lingered in the back of my mind. That’s when I discovered Kerma and their ecotune OBD2 solutions, specifically the Q-loader Pro device.
The process began smoothly with the Q-loader Pro. This handheld device, pictured below, is remarkably user-friendly. I easily copied my stock ECU file and sent it off to Kerma. The anticipation built over the next couple of weeks, and then the email from Charlie arrived, containing not one, but two enticing files: Stage 1 and Stage 1+.
Charlie’s explanation of the tunes was straightforward and honest. He described Stage 1+ as the more powerful option, acknowledging that it came with minor trade-offs. Specifically, he mentioned potential clutch shudder around 2000 rpm in higher gears (4th, 5th, 6th) when accelerating aggressively. He also noted the EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) limiter might kick in at high speeds and rpms in 4th gear, momentarily reducing power to prevent engine strain. Charlie clarified that Stage 1 was available for those seeking a slightly milder tune without these potential compromises, emphasizing that fuel economy remained identical between both stages. The core difference, he stated, was simply the extent of full-throttle power.
Despite the minor caveats of Stage 1+, the allure of increased performance was too strong to resist. I opted for Stage 1+ immediately and haven’t regretted it for a second. Naturally, concerns about warranty implications and clutch longevity crossed my mind, but the desire to experience the full potential of my TDI outweighed these worries.
The real-world results have been nothing short of impressive. Fuel economy remains a strong point; in typical city driving, I consistently achieve around 42 mpg. During a road trip to the scenic NH lakes region in June, the fuel efficiency peaked at an astounding 52+ mpg. Having owned five TDIs, this was my first venture into tuning, and it has completely transformed my perspective. The enhanced power and responsiveness are addictive. Merging onto highways or overtaking slower traffic now brings an unexpected joy, often eliciting laughter from passengers as the TDI effortlessly accelerates. The ecotune Stage 1+ from Kerma has truly revitalized my TDI, proving to be a worthwhile upgrade for any enthusiast seeking to unlock their vehicle’s hidden capabilities.
