Volkswagen has heavily publicized its VW Jetta TDI Cup racing series
, which gives young racers a chance to compete in lightly modified '09 Jetta TDIs. And today at VW's SEMA stand, in a quiet corner of the Vegas Convention Center's North Hall, we saw what is likely to be a vaguely related production application.
We say "vaguely" because the Volkswagen Jetta TDI Cup Street Concept is not a racecar and can't be optioned with a roll cage and five-point harnesses. It is, however, a Jetta TDI with GLI brakes and antiroll bars, and firmer overall suspension tuning. Of course, it also has a pretty heavy body kit on it, and the Volkswagen officials we talked to told us that VW dealers are clamoring for a sassier diesel Jetta. Several have already built their own.
You can, too, actually, as all this stuff is available in VW's parts catalog. However, a factory special-edition model based on the Jetta TDI Cup Street Concept is a virtual certainty sometime during the 2009 calendar year. A $30K price estimate was suggested in conversation, but we'd guess the MSRP will end up in the high $20Ks. Apparently, you'll have a choice of the conventional six-speed manual or the twin-clutch DSG.
Erin Riches, Inside Line Senior Editor
estreka says:
10:05 AM, 11/ 5/08
I like cars like this. They're so pure.
ateixeira says:
11:38 AM, 11/ 5/08
They are racing TDIs successfully so this is a natural next step.
Not too big a market for $30k Jettas, though. Keep a lid on production numbers.
bbechtel16 says:
09:43 AM, 11/ 6/08
I think this is a great idea. I can see a small but solid market for a diesel GLI. The 2.0T is tough competition though, especially with today's gas vs. diesel prices.
bbechtel16 says:
09:45 AM, 11/ 6/08
I however, must follow this up by saying I see a bigger market for a diesel GTI. Imagine the jollies a practical enthusiast would get from the combination of diesel power, GTI handling, and choice of 3 or 5 door hatch!