With virtually the same chassis as a regular Jetta 2.5, the TDI provides a comfortable, slightly sporty ride, although the brake pedal requires a firm push to make it stop. We plan to address both of these areas on our new project car, and will be looking for a little more grunt as well.
The Europeans get a more powerful (and torquey) 170hp TDI motor and while we were initially told it wouldn't meet US emissions standards, it later emerged it might... We're not sure what that means, but we were also told the difference in the two engines is predominantly software, so you know we're going to try and unlock that hidden potential.
For now, we'll make do with what we have, which is pretty darn good compared to the first-generation diesels introduced in the Rabbit back in 1977. Since then, VW has become a leading supplier of diesel vehicles in the US, selling 800,000 to date.
With the Mk4 Jetta, diesels represented 20% of sales in states where it was available. With the Mk5, VW is hoping to increase those numbers, and expecting 50% of Jetta Wagon sales to be TDI models.
Such figures seem achievable provided fuel prices remain high. At present, a gallon of diesel is more expensive than gasoline, but it's starting to drop as demand and availability increases. At present, 42% of gas stations (50% in California) carry diesel, with more expected soon. But even if diesel remains more expensive than gasoline, remember you can drive up to 30% further on each gallon...
Cup racers get 170hp motors,...
Cup racers get 170hp motors, and we aim to have the same in our project car
What's more, the residual value of your diesel vehicle should be higher than a gasoline model. Secondhand values of the existing VW diesels are skyhigh, although these may drop as more cars become available.
So with a bargain price tag, government tax relief, stingy mileage, low emissions and respectable performance, the Jetta TDI is going to be kind to your wallet and better for the environment than whatever you're currently driving. If these things matter to you, it's time to visit your dealer and place an order.
The cars are currently flying off the floor at VW dealerships, which sadly led to the cancellation of the proposed TDI Sport model since it wasn't needed to shift more cars. But it does leave the door open for something similar in the future, possibly with the more powerful engine the Europeans enjoy so much.