Volkswagen Leads the Way as U.S. Diesel Sales Increase 35 Percent

CANTON, CONN. (05/03/2012)(readMedia)-- In recent years, diesel fuel has been more associated with huge 18-wheelers than family sedans, but that perception might be changing as gas prices rise and consumers seek fuel-efficient alternatives. According to data compiled by HybridCars.Com and Baum and Associates, U.S. sales of clean-diesel vehicles grew 35 percent in the first quarter of 2012 compared to the same period last year. That increased interest has paid dividends for established diesel-car manufacturers like Volkswagen, whose TDI Clean Diesel models are growing in popularity at VW dealerships.

U.S. diesel sales increased by 39.6 percent in March year-over-year, a number that Volkswagen TDI models outpaced with a 44.4-percent sales increase. Diesel powertrains accounted for 23.1 percent of all VW sales in March, helping the automaker cap off its best first quarter of U.S. sales since 1973. The Volkswagen Jetta TDI is the perennial best seller on the U.S. diesel market, returning up to 42 mpg on the highway.

"Consumers are really responding to the savings and convenience that comes from clean-diesel technology," said Scott Dell, general sales manager of Canton, Connecticut Volkswagen dealer Mitchell Volkswagen. "Diesel fuel is an efficient and widely available alternative to gasoline, so it makes sense for a lot of our customers that still want the responsive ride expected from a Volkswagen but with even more miles per gallon."

Volkswagen currently offers five models with a diesel engine in the United States, with the Jetta, Jetta SportWagen, Golf, Passat and Touareg all featuring TDI options. A sixth model, the Beetle TDI Clean Diesel Coupe, will go on sale late this summer, bringing the iconic car's distinctive style to the already diverse TDI lineup.

A clean-diesel engine isn't the only alternative powertrain in the works for the Volkswagen Beetle, however. Volkswagen has created an all-electric two-seater convertible concept based on the Beetle's styling. Dubbed the E-Bugster concept, the new roadster appeared with its top down for the first time at the Beijing Auto Show last month.

The topless E-Bugster revealed an interior with two sport seats separated by a body-color center tunnel that carries back to the contoured rear deck. Continuing that modern look is a chrome bezel surrounding the cabin and ambient white and blue interior lighting that glows when the vehicle's start button is pushed. Powered by a 114-horsepower electric motor and a lithium-ion battery, the E-Bugster has a range of more than 100 miles and can be charged in a half an hour when power is tapped from a special DC source.

"There is no telling if an all-electric model similar to the E-Bugster will make it into production, but there are definitely fans out there that would like to enjoy an emissions-free Beetle," added Dell. "As far as a drop-top Beetle is concerned, a gas-powered version is expected to debut at the LA Auto Show this November, so we shouldn't have to wait too much longer."

About Mitchell VW:

Driven by a customer-first mantra, Mitchell Volkswagen is a Canton, Connecticut Volkswagen dealership specializing in new and used Volkswagen sales, service and parts. With a wide selection of fuel-efficient VW models like the Passat and Golf TDI, the dealership has become a favorite stop for Hartford-area commuters. Mitchell VW's relationship with customers extends well beyond each sale as well, with a state-of-the-art service facility run by expert technicians. Visit their dealership at 51 Albany Turnpike (Route 44) in Canton or call them at 800-763-5616. They can also be found online at www.mitchellvw.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MitchellVolkswagen.