SEMA 2008: Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Edition Street Concept so close to production

The Jetta TDI Cup Series did so well this year that Volkswagen is expanding the series from eight to ten races next year. And now non-racers may have a chance to live the diesel racing dream, and if they do, it will look very similar to the Jetta TDI Cup Edition Street Concept unveiled at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas today. The diesel-powered sport sedan gets upgraded sway bars and brakes from the Euro-spec Jetta GLI and a "European sport-tuned suspension", along with some cosmetic enhancements like a three-spoke steering wheel, sill plates, and Interlagos sport seats. This is one of those, "If we get the right response we'll might make it" deals, but VW is so open to producing this sport version of the Jetta TDI that it even has a price point already established: under $30,000. So have look at the high-res gallery of images below and let VW know what you think. We say build it.

PRESS RELEASE

2008 SEMA: VOLKSWAGEN JETTA TDI CUP "STREET" EDITION
The performance of the Volkswagen Racing Jetta TDI is now available

LAS VEGAS – With the conclusion of the successful 2008 Jetta TDI Cup Volkswagen of America is bringing the race car to the people with their Jetta TDI Cup "Street" edition special model unveiled at the 2008 SEMA show.

The similarities to the race car are evident at first glance – the Jetta TDI Cup edition features the front bumper, side skirts and rear valance that are on the Jetta TDI Cup cars. However, the upgrades on the Jetta TDI Cup "Street" edition go beyond cosmetic with the addition of the brakes and sway bars found in the performance-oriented GLI sedan combined with a European sport tuned suspension.

The TDI Cup "Street" is powered by Volkswagen's powerful 2.0L clean-diesel TDI producing 140 hp and 236 lbs. ft. of readily available torque, mated to the six-speed DSG transmission with Tiptronic® and Sport mode. The TDI Cup Street edition rides on Yokohama 225/40R18 ADVAN sport tires and 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The TDI Cup "Street" will be available in similar GLI colors and feature "TDI Cup Edition" appliqué for the vehicle side and branded door sill inserts. The interior brings upgrades that include a race-inspired three-spoke steering wheel with the TDI Cup logo and interlagos cloth sport seats.

Based on consumer feedback, the Jetta TDI Cup Edition may be available as early as 2010 with a price starting under $30,000.