2009 VW Jetta TDI... what's the point??
 

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...hotopanel..3.*

Maybe the Memphis area is worse than normal but around here diesel costs 10-15% more than regular gasoline

Take the 29/40 rating of the TDI Jetta and reduce it by, say, 10%.

Now it's 26/36

That's the same average economy as the Cobalt manual gets at 25/37 on regular gas for practically half the price.

I realize the VW is probably a more pleasant car to drive but for twice the price? I thought we were trying to save money by getting a fuel efficient car?

The TDI enthusiasts will buy it, but it won't win over any non believers, like its needs to. Which is most of America.

As far as green goes:
Jetta TDI: 6.2 tons of CO2 a year
Corolla: 6.1 tons
Civic: 6.3 tons

While it's EPA rated at 29/40, i Believe independent tests and VW owner reviews have placed the values at 38/44.

I have owned a VW Jetta TDI (2001) and I can tell you these are great motors. I would consistantly average 48MPG on the highway. The 2006 Jetta was sold in TDI form (the current jetta platform), and the car got the same mileage. They are actually selling today for around their original retail prices, so they didn't depreciate at all. Those EPA numbers are low, low, low. Just wait for some real world reports.

Don't know what the person talking about not winning people over is trying to say. The car is already on waiting lists around the country. All in all, it's a very good alternative to the Prius. Virtually the same mileage, in a much more fun to drive car. The fit/finish and build quality in VW products is also generally very, very good.

I'd rather get the Jetta TDI over the Cobalt. A nicer interior and better looking car imo. The interior is still very plain though.

Just wait until Honda brings an Accord Diesel or the TSX/TL Diesel here.

In Mexico, the diesels would sell. Diesel was WAY cheaper down there than regular gasoline.