Germany has the autobahn; we have Interstate-80 with drivers topped out at 55 mph in the left lane. Germany has an appreciation for compact, fuel-efficient hatchbacks; consumers here count a range of heavy-duty pickup trucks and full-sized SUVs among their shopping choices. Aside from speed-limitless highways, a fervent respect for the passing lane, and more subcompacts than a Toyota Yaris convention, Deutschland also has a strong affinity for diesel-powered cars. In fact, just about any car on German roads can be had with a diesel engine. But don’t count us out just yet. The U.S. is catching up in availability of these powerful, yet fuel-efficient engines, and VW is blazing the trail.  

After taking a brief hiatus from the American automotive marketplace to clean up its act, Volkswagen’s diesel program is back on in the States, re-launched with the 2009 Jetta TDI and now the 2010 Golf TDI.

Sound familiar? VW used the Golf name for its compact hatchback until model-year 2006; Rabbit replaced it for 2007. Now, for 2010, the Golf moniker is back, and with it, a redesigned, sixth-generation Golf and the availability of clean-diesel power.  

Two versions are available: The 2.5 is powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 5-cylinder gas engine; TDI versions have a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine. Both are available in 2- and 4-door body styles. Options include heated seats, rear side airbags, a sunroof, and a wireless cell-phone link. A navigation system, steering-linked adaptive headlights, and an upgraded sound system are available only on TDI models.

Where better than Golf’s hometown to try out VW’s newest diesel? We flew to Germany to test the new Golf and Golf TDI on the autobahn highways around Wolfsburg. Fast? Yes. Fun? Oh yes.

What’s Cool…

Power and Fuel Economy?
Golf’s 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine is no slouch; it provides the required gusto for every driving situation, but it pales in comparison to the TDI. Volkswagen’s diesel engine, currently used in the Jetta, has proven itself a peppy, fuel efficient little torque machine. Expect the same in Golf. The TDI supplies reserves of power-at-the-ready with minimal turbo lag, and telltale diesel clatter is almost non-existent. Golf TDI also shines in the fuel-economy department. During an over 150-mile road test at autobahn speeds, a 4-door Golf TDI averaged 6.1 liters/100km or 38.1 mpg for the metric-system averse. It’s EPA rated at 30/42 city/highway mpg.  

More Information Check out CG's diesel-car reviews and articles 2010 VW Golf TDI review Long-Term 2009 VW Jetta TDI test  2009 Audi Q7 TDI review 2009 Audi Diesel Mileage Marathon

However, you have to take the good with the, well not bad, but definitely not-so-good. TDI’s automatic DSG transmission is clunky, to say the least, with late down shifts and lurchy around-town gear changes. Luckily, it smooths itself out at highway speeds and becomes unnoticeable.

The Little Black Interior
Black does go with everything, including the 2010 Golf. You may be able to choose between several different interior colors if you buy a Golf in Deutschland, but here in the States, black is your color palette.  

Though VW mandates the black interior, it still keeps things in the cabin looking upscale and interesting. Think sleek and sporty rather than austere and plain. Soft-touch materials line the cabin and chrome trim dazzles things up a bit. The black-and-gray patterned seats also go a long way toward adding some flair to the interior. Large, clear climate and audio dials mean controlling these functions while driving is easy, though the new-for-2010 navigation screen absorbs some audio functions.

You may not be able to get the Thunderbunny Kit (available on the previous Rabbit), but the new Golf offers some options previously unavailable on Rabbit: Aside from the large, touchscreen navigation system, a wireless cell-phone link and steering-linked adaptive headlights are also new-for-2010 options.

…What’s Not

TDI for Everyone?
Well, it depends on your budget. Adding the diesel engine to Golf is going to cost you. In fact, upgrading from your 2009 Rabbit will too. Base model prices went up $1,190 year-over-year, and then there’s the TDI premium. A 2.5-liter Golf starts at $17,490; upgrading to the TDI model will set you back an additional $4,500, but you also add options like a leather-wrapped steering wheel with radio controls, a 6-disc CD player with iPod capability, satellite radio, a sport suspension, and 17-inch wheels instead of the 2.5’s 15s. (Watch out for the last two items on this list; the sport suspension and larger wheels noticeably firm up the ride.)   

The spending doesn’t end at the dealership; don’t forget to factor in the cost of diesel fuel. While it used to be cheaper than regular unleaded, diesel fuel is now typically higher in most areas. Do the math to see how long it’ll take you in mpg savings to make up the difference.   

CG Says:

If you’re looking for a sporty, fuel-efficient hatchback, Golf should top your list. Golf has hot-hatch looks and the spunk to back it up. It adds a fun-to-drive, refined, and fairly roomy dose of sportiness to the compact-car class. But economy-car shoppers beware: Golf can get pricey, especially the TDI with navigation, and it may take a few years of super-star mpg numbers to make up for the diesel price premium, both up front and at the pump.