The new 50 state compliant VW Jetta TDI boasts 30% better fuel economy than the equivalent gasoline engine. In this case, the EPA has deemed the car to return 38mpg city and 44mpg highway. However, we saw superior figures during the car’s recent US launch.
On California’s notoriously challenging canyon roads and with limited freeway use, we returned an average of 45mpg. And with steady freeway use were seeing over 50mpg without any problems.
Even pushed hard in the national TDI Cup race series, these Jettas are returning 25mpg. They expect to complete all eight hard-fought races on two tanks of diesel, and racetracks are now bidding to have the TDI Cup races at their venues, given the low emissions and reduced noise the action-packed series offers.
What’s more, with a starting price of only $21990 for the Jetta TDI, free servicing for three years and eligibility for a $1300 advanced lean burn technology Federal tax credit, this car answers all the questions you’re asking.
The TDI differs little from the regular VW Jetta. Only a badge and low-energy Michelin tires distinguish it outwardly. Transmissions include either a six-speed auto or manual but the interior is unchanged from the gasoline models.
Under the hood is a 140hp version of the 2.0 liter common rail, direct injection turbo-diesel so highly regarded in Europe. However, the TDI’s second best trick, besides its frugality, is its 236 lb-ft of torque. This gives the car uncanny in-gear acceleration to ensure you won’t be embarrassed under acceleration.
You must forget your old perceptions of diesel. These are no longer sooty, slothful oddities. European carmakers have developed diesel technology to the point where 50% of VW’s European sales are now TDI models. What’s more, we’re going to see more of them on our roads, with BMW, Audi and Mercedes joining VW in the US market. However, none of them will offer the same value for money as this VW.
We’ll have a full report on the Jetta TDI in the January 2009 issue of eurotuner magazine, and we’ll update you in this blog over the coming months as we get to grips with our longterm TDI.