The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI is Consumer Guide's newest long-term tester.
Mercedes-Benz was first to introduce a clean-diesel-powered passenger car to the U.S. with its 2007 E320 BlueTEC sedan. For 2009, Volkswagen brings clean-diesel power to the more-affordable compact car segment with the new Jetta TDI.
The Consumer Guide staff recently welcomed a 2009 VW Jetta TDI to our extended-use fleet, and we'll evaluate it over the course of the next year. We will put the TDI to the test in a wide variety of real-world situations, including commuting to work, shopping for groceries, and taking long-distance road trips.
About CG's Test 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
Our test car is a base TDI sedan with the 6-speed DSG (Direct Sequential Gearbox) automatic transmission. The only option on our tester is the power sunroof, but all TDIs come well-equipped with such features as heated front seats, dual-zone climate controls, steering-wheel radio controls, and six-disc CD/MP3 changer. Our TDI is equipped with the standard 16-inch alloy wheels; VW offers 17 inch-wheels as an option. The sticker price of our tester is $24,190, destination included.
Creature Comforts and Safety Equipment
In terms of creature comforts, the Jetta TDI is equipped similarly to the top-line Jetta SEL, which means it's one of the most upscale cars in the compact class. Leather upholstery isn't available on a TDI, but VW's "V-Tex" Leatherette is a convincing substitute. Antilock brakes, traction control, an antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags are all standard. Rear side airbags are optional. Thanks to the TDI's sophisticated emissions controls, the car is legal for sale in all 50 states.
Initial Impressions
We're impressed by the overall refinement of our Jetta TDI, and by how seamlessly the diesel powertrain is integrated into the overall package. A bit of engine clatter at idle and while accelerating is the only real tip-off that a diesel engine is under the hood; gone are the unpleasant fuel/exhaust odors and coarse vibrations of diesel engines of the past. Fine fit-and-finish, classy interior accommodations, and impressive-for-the-class ride quality are other high points.
The TDI's 140-horsepower turbodiesel has decent power and torque overall, but our main gripe so far is the powertrain's sluggish behavior during low-speed acceleration. The nonlinear throttle response (a trait we've lamented in other VWs), slight turbo lag, and occasionally unresponsive transmission can make moderate-speed passing maneuvers or pulling out into traffic from a stop a frustrating, even unnerving, experience.
Consumer Guide's test 2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI stickers for $24,190.
Obviously, we'll be keeping a close watch on fuel economy. At over 3,200 miles into our test, we are averaging an impressive 36.8 mpg. Of course, that number is tempered a bit by the higher cost of diesel fuel. At the time of this writing, the national average price of a gallon of diesel fuel was $3.19, while the average gallon of regular gasoline cost $2.30. If that 89-cent-per-gallon premium for diesel persists, the out-of-pocket savings are basically a wash between a Jetta TDI and its 5-cylinder gasoline-engine stablemates. However, if fuel prices skyrocket again, the TDI could offer significant savings. Another benefit of the Jetta TDI is an impressive cruising range. With its economical engine and its 14.5 gallon fuel tank, the TDI is capable of traveling well over 500 miles on a single tank of fuel. Check back with us regularly to see how our Jetta TDI is faring during its stay.
