2010 Volkswagen TDI Makes Solid Case for Diesels

2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI Diesel

SEE ALSO: Volkswagen Buyers Guide
SEE ALSO: More Clean Diesel Stories and Articles

Washington DC April 29, 2010; The AIADA newsletter reported that Germany's largest automaker, Volkswagen, is an evangelist for the clean and fuel-efficient powertrains. Mark Phelan at the Detroit Free Press, the 2010 Golf TDI diesel helps explain why.

With an EPA rating of 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, it provides better fuel economy than some hybrids. The Golf TDI also offers VW's customary nailed-down handling. The car is particularly well-suited to American tastes because the diesel's strong torque output leads to excellent stoplight-to-stoplight acceleration.

Prices for the Golf TDI start at $22,155 for a two-door model with a six-speed manual transmission and $23,255 for a two-door with a dual-clutch six-speed transmission. The four-door Golf TDI starts at $22,760 with the manual gearbox and $23,860 with the dual-clutch.

All TDIs have a 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection diesel that produces 236 pound-feet of torque from 1,750 rpm to 2,500 rpm. The car's EPA fuel economy rating exceeds all non-hybrids on the road except the Smart ForTwo.

The Golf TDI offers 93 cubic feet of passenger room, more than the Insight, HS 250h or Prius. Its tall body and big windows provide excellent sight lines. Standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, stability control, front-seat side air bags, and curtain air bags.

Click here to read Phelan’s full review of the Volkswagen Golf TDI.