Again, I don't disagree so not sure what we're arguing about. I'm talking 7th gen ICTDI which doesn't have DPF, you're talking 8th gen with DPF (totally different scenario).
As for scientific tests, are they better than real world experience? Maybe for you, but for me (and I suspect most people) real world is what it's all about.
And as for them doing their research, I have my own theory on that. Put simply, if Honda are selling:
A - a 2.4 petrol which makes around 190bhp and little torque, costs a lot to run on fuel and tax..
B - a 2.2 Diesel which makes similar power, with bags of torque, costs (perhaps a little more to service) but far more fuel and tax efficient..
Which would most people want to buy?
I already know your answer, but it won't be the same as everyone else.
Yes you can chuck in the argument which I know you will that you need to spend more to run a diesel because of costly repairs yada yada yada, but on face value when someone is flicking through brochures and making decisions on company cars etc. The choice is pretty easy and it won't be choice A.