2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI Succeeds as Eco-Friendly Family Car
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For car shoppers with kids in tow, finding a stellar gas-sipper that is also large enough to haul two to three little ones and plenty of cargo has historically been difficult. To fill the void, Volkswagen now offers the VW Jetta SportWagen with diesel technology. The result is a remarkably capable and comfortable wagon that earns up to 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.
If you are an eco-conscious parent, then you likely have already looked into larger hybrid models such as the 2010 Ford Escape Hybrid and 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid. While these models are certainly more fuel efficient than other SUVs, the fuel numbers in comparison to hybrid leaders such as the Toyota Prius may have left you a little disappointed.
If such is the case, then the Jetta SportWagen TDI is a great alternative. The diesel Jetta's combined fuel efficiency of 34 mpg outperforms both of these hybrid SUVs. With a base price below $23,000, the Volkswagen is also thousands less than comparably sized hybrids.
For that price, you'll get a stylish and upscale wagon that delivers big on both poshness and practicality. Inside, an exceptional fit and finish can be found throughout, with a bevy of high-grade components and high-tech features to pamper passengers. The vehicle seats up to five, with plenty of room in the rear for kids to spread out.
Of course, high-efficiency hybrid leaders also seat five. However, the functional wagon layout of the Jetta SortWagen handily beats these better-known green machines in the category of cargo room. With the rear seats up, the Jetta wagon offers 32.8 cubic feet of cargo, and with seats down that figure more than doubles to 66.9 cubic feet.
If your keeping track, that's slightly more interior volume than the Ford Escape Hybrid (66.0 cubic feet) and roughly one-third more volume than that offered by the Toyota Prius (40 cubic feet).
The turbodiesel engine also delivers fairly strong driving dynamics despite the hefty wagon design. With an available 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft. of torque, the VW Jetta SportWagen proves especially capable during acceleration. Add in solid handling and a smooth shifter, and the Jetta wagon is one of the most fun-to-drive wagons on the road.
Further bolstering the appeal of the Jetta is a healthy dose of safety features. Front, side and side curtain airbags are all available, and high-tech features such as engine braking assist and anti-slip regulation all combine to make the 2010 Jetta a "Top Safety Pick" for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
All in all, the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI is a stellar vehicle that just may be the most eco-friendly family car on the road. However, that's not to say this capable carpooler is for everyone.
If you need more room than a five-seater can allow, then you'll have to pony up to an SUV or minivan. Sadly, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid is really the only fuel-efficient option in this segment, and even then you'll only earn 26 mpg combined.
If you're willing to compromise a bit of fuel efficiency in favor of price, then you might consider the 2010 Hyundai Elantra Touring. Though less refined and fuel-efficient than the VW Jetta SportWagen, the Elantra delivers all the functionality for as little as $16,000.
Similarly, if you can skimp a bit on cargo area, you might be just as pleased with a mid-size hybrid sedan. The Toyota Prius and Ford Fusion Hybrid both offer similar passenger space and enhanced fuel efficiency.