HIGH MILEAGE WITHOUT A HYBRID: The Jetta TDI. “Volkswagen’s new 2.0L turbodiesel, which was named one of Ward’s Auto’s Top 10 Engines of 2009, runs at just 1,800 rpm while cruising between 65 and 70 mph, so the Jetta TDI feels and sounds more like a car powered by a large, unencumbered V6. It’s relaxed and anything but buzzy, accomplishing all its work below a 4,500-rpm redline that ensures things never get hectic underhood. Also gone is the knock, clatter and clang characteristic of past diesels. The Jetta TDI is as quiet as a luxury car on the highway, and though the diesel can be heard while idling, the entire car is eerily vibration free while sitting at a stop light.”