No surprise: Fuel prices are up. Diesel, especially, is topping off at a national average of $3.85/gallon - compared to Regular fuel at $3.58/gallon. What choices do consumers have to battle fuel-price fatigue? Perhaps consider a small-displacement diesel.
Why a diesel? In our last test of a manual transmission VW Golf TDI, we recorded an excellent 38 mpg overall and an impressive 49 mpg on the highway. And the previous Jetta SportWagen TDI test saw an outstanding 36 mpg overall and 49 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission. And you can make a compelling argument that VW diesels are more engaging to drive than almost any mainstream-brand hybrid. (Visit our Volkswagen Jetta model page.)
We're eager to see how the new TDI performs, since our initial test of the redesigned gas-powered Jetta SE sedan produced decidedly mixed results (see video below). Our new Jetta TDI is somewhat more upscale than our SE, with its six-speed DSG transmission, and different tires and a higher trim level. As equipped, the TDI's total came to $25,100.
We figure that there are many fans of VW diesels out there, as evidenced by the large number of responses we've received from our blog "Living with a VW Jetta TDI," so we thought we'd provide an update on our latest test car.
So, how is the new TDI? Here's how it's looking so far:
"Nicest VW diesel to date...engine is smooth and quiet and has gobs of torque."
"Saw 44+ mpg going to/from the Yonkers, NY home office."
"Steers, handles better than regular Jetta. Also has less road noise."
"Not nearly as agile as the SportWagen from last year."
"Low-end torque and DSG add up to some surging at low speeds and too much engine braking to drive smoothly."
"Flat seats have too much tilt up front and not enough lumbar."
"Increased width of this generation Jetta gives a more spacious feel over the last gen."
"Interior is nicer than the gas SE model."
"Intuitive controls except for the trip computer, which is on the wiper control and takes some getting used to."
"I miss the adjustable center armrest."
"High package shelf and large headrests give this car poor rear visibility."
"This TDI improves my view of the redesigned Jetta."
Clearly, our first impressions are that the diesel version of the Jetta has it over the gas model we previously tested. The different tires and wheels, nicer interior and amazing fuel economy have improved this model's perception among the staff. And with several thousand miles already clocked on our new Jetta, this line sums it up: "Torquey, quiet diesel makes the TDI the best Jetta offering."
Check back soon for more test results.
See our guides to alternative fuels and fuel economy.
—Mike Quincy
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