What I liked about the Volkswagen Jetta TDI
- Great fuel economy, even if you don't try
- Unbelievable fuel economy if you do try
- Tax credit means no price premium for the diesel engine
- Practical, comfortable and safe
What I didn't like:
- Diesel engine is only available as a high-end well-equipped Jetta -- I'd love to see a cheap TDI
Who should buy the Volkswagen Jetta TDI:
Buyers looking for outstanding fuel economy in a car that's fun to drive and easy to live with
Who should not buy the Volkswagen Jetta TDI:
Buyers who commute through severe stop-and-go traffic -- a hybrid will save more money
Details and specs:
- Body style: 4-door sedan, 5-door station wagon
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: TDI, TDI Loyal Edition
- Price range (including destination and options): $22,640 - $31,175
- Test car model/price: Jetta TDI Loyal Edition, $24,190
- Base engine: 2.0 liter inline four turbodiesel, 140 hp @ 4,000 RPM, 236 lb-ft @ 1,750 - 2,500 RPM
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? No
- Transmission: 6-speed manual, 6-speed twin-clutch automatic
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 30 MPG city/41 MPG highway (manual), 29/40 (automatic)
- Powertrain tested/observed fuel economy: TDI automatic/42.9 MPG
- Where built: Mexico
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: Rear-seat-mounted side airbags
- Major standard features: Power windows, mirrors and locks, 6-disc CD changer, satellite radio, heated front seats, automatic climate control
- Major options: Navigation system, sunroof
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 12 years/unlimited mileage outer-body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles roadside assistance, 3 years/36,000 miles free scheduled maintenance
Best rivals:
The vehicle for this test drive was provided by Volkswagen.
