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Volkswagen selling more diesels than expected
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While hybrid vehicles have taken over the news, there’s an alternative with almost similar fuel economy.
Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI Loyal Edition front-drive sedan, with its 2.0L, 140-hp turbo 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine, gets EPA mileage ratings of an impressive 29 city, 40 highway mpg. And it does so with gusto. 
Acceleration and passing power from the little 4-cylinder is lively and quick. And surprisingly, this is with the optional 6-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. The combination provided exhilarating torque from a standing stop and power on demand during highway passing.
Contrary to public belief, this new diesel is unlike oil-burners of yesteryear. The new 50 state emissions legal TDI is exceptionally quiet for a diesel. An example of new technology and engineering prowess. There’s only a hint of diesel rattle at idle and not much different from the sound emanating from VWs I-5 and I-4 cylinder powerplants.
This may come as a surprise, but about 30 percent of U.S. sales of Jetta sedans and half of Jetta wagons are diesel powered. VW had expected 20 percent on sedans. So folks are waking up to the benefits of diesel power. The only thing better would be a diesel hybrid. And with this experience, I’d bet VW will be the first to offer this combination, which is the ultimate in hybrid-powered vehicles. If you’re familiar with diesel locomotives, you know the power they have and what they can pull. The concept will be the same for diesel-hybrid cars and trucks.
From a handling standpoint, the Jetta was taut and stable with only a smidgen of body lean in sharp turns. It steered quickly and parked easily. And the ride is typical European, meaning it’s firm as are the seats. On smooth roads, the ride is similar to some midsize sedans.
Interior quality is among the best in class and likened to that in some BMW or Mercedes sedans. Ingress/egress into the rear seat is easy thanks to wide opening rear doors. Instrumentation is easy to read with its blue and purple lighting. HVAC controls are large rotary dials while the auto shifter is positioned perfectly. The only low points were a quirky accelerator pedal that needed a deft touch to start off slowly and smoothly. That, and the rear headrests could be of lower profile for better rear vis.
Trunk space is surprisingly spacious for a compact car. There’s a deep well that can swallow two Pullman hardsiders or three golf bags if the 60 portion of the 60/40 seats are folded. 
While diesel powerplants normally cost more than gas engines, my Jetta TDI bottom-lined at $24,190 after a base of $22,440. Compare that to the competition from the Honda Civic, Mazda 3 or Toyota Corolla, and the TDI is a compelling high-mileage alternative.
For more information check www.media.vw.com and for comments or questions contact Allentown Examiner Nick Hromiak at nhromiak@enter.com.
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