VW Jetta TDI: An Alternative to Hybrids?

What's New About the Jetta:
While the European design of this midsize sedan has been around for a few years, VW now offers a turbo diesel injected engine in the Jetta, making them the first automaker to offer a clean diesel in all fifty states.

Must Have Goodies:
The Jetta TDI we reviewed was a basic midsize vehicle without all of the frills and tech gadgets some automakers use to woo customers. Our Jetta was equipped with a double clutch 6-speed manual transmission, a manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel, a height adjustable front center armrest, a high quality sounding radio with an in-dash 6-disc CD changer, a Satellite radio and heated front seats. The only option was the set of four rubber floor mats which listed for $200.

What Rocked:
The simple and organized layout of the instrument panel rocked. Other automakers use VW's interior layout as a benchmark for its vehicles. And the best feature yet about this new diesel is that we were able to rack up over 500 miles on one tank, without having to refuel. For $23,000, this vehicle could possibly be a better alternative to some of the premium price hybrids. Like with some hybrids, the government is offering a tax credit on diesels, too.

What We Hated:
The slight grumbling sound of the diesel at start-up was one of our minor concerns. Fortunately, unlike the dirty diesels of the past, this one didn’t emit smoke or other fumes into the ozone. Also its time for VW to consider doing some minor tweaks to freshen up the exterior design and to keep up with its competitors. And the only item which was somewhat bothersome was that the driver’s legroom was impeded by the center floor console. While we enjoyed the additional storage from the floor mounted center console, our right leg rested uncomfortably against the console.

Any Juice:

Although the diesel was equipped with a 2.0-liter 140-horsepower engine, the 236 pounds of torque caused the vehicle to be quite responsive. If power is your thing, you won’t be disappointed with the 6-speed manual transmission VW.

Verdict:

It’s no wonder why VW hasn’t focused its energy on building hybrids with their new diesels. As long as consumers get past the bad rap sheet diesels have earned of being dirty and loud, Jetta has a hit on its hands. You couldn’t ask for another vehicle to be so well equipped with the comfortable form fitted seats, driver-friendly fuel consumption and the pricing. It’s easy to see why VW sales are only down slightly during this recession as opposed to most other automakers. Although VW doesn’t offer rebates, consumers should be able to find competitive lease rates.

Other Non Diesel Competitors: Honda Insight, Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Prius.

To price out the Jetta or other vehicles, visit JeffCars.com's New-Vehicle Pricing Guide .