Because diesel prices are well above even premium gas prices around the country, many industry experts predicted that the new batch of clean-diesels would see little success in the U.S. However, because of their un-economy car-like performance and hybrid-rivaling fuel economy, many buyers are looking past the high prices at the pump.
The 2009 Jetta TDI sedan and wagon have yet to hit the market, but customers are already signing up for the new cars in droves. Many VW dealers have even sold out of their allotment of TDI cars. “People are becoming aware of what constitutes a true economy vehicle,” Richard Fisher, owner of Auto Barn VW, told Automotive News. “They don’t just want economy but a car that drives well and handles well and has good performance.”
The TDI Jetta promises 30 to 35 percent better fuel economy than its gasoline counterpart, with EPA ratings of 29/40 mpg city/highway.
Also helping the Jetta TDI’s cause is its low cost of entry. With a starting price of just $22,640, the TDI is a no brainer for many customers, especially those who do a lot of highway driving – a weak point for hybrid vehicles. VW’s diesels also have a strong reputation for reliability, with diesel VWs routinely clocking 200,000 to 300,000 miles.
Although it remains to be seen if diesel’s popularity will be able to continue this momentum with higher prices at the pump, it’s at least a good sign for other automakers – such as Audi , BMW and Mercedes-Benz – who are planning clean diesel launches in the U.S. over the next few months.
