Editor's note: This story is part of the WardsAuto digital archive, which may include content that was first published in print, or in different web layouts.
Special Coverage
Greater L.A. Auto Show
LOS ANGELES – The environmentally focused Green Car Journal names the diesel-powered Volkswagen Jetta TDI its “Green Car of the Year” at a ceremony this morning at the Los Angeles auto show.
The Jetta beat out a number of green-leaning competitors, including two hybrid-electric vehicles, a clean-diesel sport sedan and a fuel-efficient microcar.
Green Car Journal Editor Ron Cogan cites the car’s 41-mpg (5.7-L/100 km) highway fuel economy, reduced greenhouse-gas emissions and low emissions of other types of pollutants as key to winning the award.
This is the first time a diesel has been honored with the title since the Green Car Journal began the awards in 2005. The Jetta TDI is powered by a 2.0L, turbocharged, direct-injection engine featuring the latest in emissions control technology that enables it to meet the strict emissions rules in all 50 states.
It also is affordable, starting at $21,990, and is eligible for an income-tax credit.
A jury of environmental and automotive experts selected the ’09 Jetta TDI from a field of five finalists that included the BMW 335d clean diesel, Ford Fusion Hybrid, Saturn Vue 2-mode hybrid and Smart Fortwo.
Nine jurors made the decision on the final cut, including Carl Pope, executive director-Sierra Club; Frances Beinecke, president-Natural Resources Defense Council; Jean-Michel Cousteau-president, Ocean Futures Society; automotive expert and “Tonight Show” host Jay Leno; Carroll Shelby; and four Green Car Journal staffers.
