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New VW Jetta Diesel Models in Demand-In Spite of Overpriced Diesel Fuel


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)
2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI Sportswagen

Washington DC July 16, 2008; The AIADA newsletter reported that Volkswagen dealers say the high price of diesel fuel isn't stopping a rush of buyers eager to snatch up the first batch of Jetta TDI cars.

The TDI models don't go on sale until late August. But many dealers say they already have enough orders to eat up their 2008 allocation of the new Jetta sedan and Sportwagen TDI.

Dealers tell Automotive News that consumers like the improved fuel economy and high reliability of the diesel engine — plus the kind of performance you can't get from a hybrid or fuel-efficient small car. And they are willing to pay the $5 a gallon diesel costs in some states.

"People are becoming aware of what constitutes a true economy vehicle," says Richard Fisher, owner of Auto Barn VW, which has three Chicago area VW stores. "They don't just want economy but a car that drives well and handles well and has good performance."