Truth: Volkswagen TDI FAQs
We realize Volkswagen’s TDI® technology may be new to some of you. With that in mind, we’ve put together a primer that covers all those things you always wanted to know about these “clean diesel” vehicles but didn’t know who to ask:

What does TDI stand for?
The TDI acronym is short for “Turbocharged Direct Injection,” an innovative engine design that delivers a combination of performance, fuel economy*, and low emissions. Learn more about TDI vehicles.

How does Volkswagen’s TDI technology work?
On the intake side of the equation, all TDI engines use a computer-controlled injection system that sprays fuel directly into the combustion chamber at very high pressures that help promote more complete combustion. On the exhaust side, Jetta TDI models use a self-cleaning filter that traps and periodically burns off nitrous oxides (NOx) and particulates, while Touareg TDI models use a special catalyst and urea-injection system that reduces NOx emissions by up to 95 percent. Learn more about TDI vehicles.

What helps make Volkswagen’s TDI models eco-conscious?
First, they’re extremely fuel-efficient. For example, the 2.0-liter turbodiesel engine under the hood of Jetta TDI sedan with manual transmission and SportWagen models return EPA fuel economy estimates of 30 miles-per-gallon city and 41 miles-per-gallon highway (your mileage will vary) , numbers that put an awful lot of gasoline-electric hybrids (and all E85 ethanol-capable “flex fuel” vehicles) to shame.

Then there’s Volkswagen’s “clean diesel” technology itself, which cuts the harmful emissions that gave old-school diesels a bad name by 90 percent. In fact, the new TDI engines in both Jetta and Touareg models now meet the world’s toughest emission control standards, known in government-speak as Tier II, Bin 5.

Which may help explain why the editors of Green Car Journal voted the Jetta TDI their 2009 Green Car of the Year®**. But prove it to yourself: use our savings calculator and see just how efficient and eco-conscious TDI technology is, compared to the competition.

Will TDI engines run on biodiesel?
All of the new of Volkswagen TDI clean diesel models are warranted to run on a biodiesel blend known as B5, which consists of 5 percent biodiesel and 95 percent petroleum diesel. And by the way, that’s covered by our new car limited warranty.

What are TDI models like to drive?
In a word, great fun. Oh wait, that’s two words. Add European-tuned suspensions and you have vehicles that are downright entertaining to drive.

For proof of this performance potential you need look no further than the racetrack, where the Jetta TDI has spawned its own racing series known as the Jetta TDI Cup™. The Touareg TDI is no slouch either, having competed in some of the world’s most grueling off-road competitions including the Dakar Rally and the Baja 1000. Not convinced? Watch the Jetta TDI take on the Toyota Prius in a series of performance tests.

Aren’t diesel engines loud, smelly and dirty?
Actually, quite the opposite. In fact, the powertrains in today’s TDI-powered models have been refined to the point you’d be hard-pressed to notice any difference between them and their gasoline-powered siblings in everyday driving. See for yourself: watch our TDI coffee filter test.

Can driving a TDI-powered Jetta or Touareg improve my love life?
Ahem…let’s just say it wouldn’t surprise us. Wait…the lawyers are telling us to say “No comment.” Next question?

Where can I buy these TDI clean diesel models?
Here’s the good news for diesel-lovers. With the recent nationwide roll-out of ultra-low-sulfur diesel fuel, both Jetta TDI and Touareg TDI models are now available at VW dealers in all 50 states. And, coming soon, the 2010 VW Golf TDI.

I’ve heard TDI buyers can get tax incentives – is that true?
Unlike many popular hybrids, all three TDI models qualify for the federal government’s Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Federal Income Tax Credit***. That amounts to a potential $1,300 savings on the Jetta sedan and Jetta Sportwagen and $1,150 on the Touareg TDI. Learn more here.

*Mileage estimates are based on EPA test procedures plus drag estimates. Mileage estimates are based on EPA test procedure. Your mileage will unless otherwise noted, vary. Obey all speed and traffic laws.

**2009 Jetta TDI clean diesel has been awarded the 2009 Green Car of the Year® by Green Car Journal. For more information see GreenCar.com. 38 city / 44 highway real world fuel economy based on AMCI testing. 29 city/40 mpg highway (automatic) EPA estimates. Your mileage will vary.

***Tax credit submitted under Notice 2006-9 and Internal Revenue Cod, Section 30B relative to the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta 2.0L TDI Sedan and SportWagen and Touareg 2 TDI. Available to taxpayers who purchased a qualified vehicle on or before December 31, 2010. Leased vehicles are not eligible for the tax credit. Only a limited number of full tax credits are available. Please consult a tax professional for more information or go to http://www.irs.gov.