2008 VW Jetta TDI spotted in the US!

We feel bad for Volkswagen. It deserves credit for quietly selling diesel-powered vehicles in the U.S. and for decades offering customers the benefits of an extra long range and ample torque. Finally the feds wise up and regulate high-polluting sulfur right out of our diesel fuel, and in the process make it impossible for VW to sell its current lineup of TDI models that don't meet the new emissions standards. So for 2007 there is no Jetta, Rabbit or Beetle TDI models being sold by Volkswagen.

But here it is! The 2008 Jetta TDI, spotted at the AltWheels festival in Boston. In order to meet the new emissions standards in the U.S., Volkswagen developed a new 2.0-liter diesel engine that is clean enough for 50-state certification without the use of urea injection, which is no small feat. It does so by extensively treating exhaust gases with catalysts and particulate filters. The engine develops 140 horsepower and a robust 240 ft-lbs. of twist.

The demonstration model was also decidedly upmarket with a nav system in the dash, leather-like seats, GTI-style projector headlights and rather large upgraded multi-spoke wheels. Exciting stuff as we're eager for VW to get back into the business of leading the diesel charge in the U.S.

[Source: TDIclub]