I'm currently test driving a Volkswagen Jetta with a diesel engine and enjoying it. Not only does the TDI have plenty of power, it will cost me less to refuel because of diesel's inherent fuel economy. With a couple of exceptions such as the Jetta, we in North America are missing out on a revolution which has resulted in 65% of new cars sold in Europe being diesel-powered.

Edmunds.com has an excellent review of the diesel phenomonen, including a chart that compares a gasoline-powered Audi V-8 to its diesel counterpart. The results will amaze you. As the article points out, "For the past few years, while the U.S. has been bemoaning ever increasing gas prices, the Europeans have been experiencing a quiet, bloodless diesel revolution. The introduction of multivalve, common-rail direct-injection and pre-ignition technology has transformed the diesel engine from a noisy agricultural workhorse into an ultra-refined, economical powerhouse worthy of the finest performance and luxury cars."

Referring to the Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI, which is coming here this fall, Edmunds says "The 201-hp inline-6 turbodiesel builds a frightful amount of torque - 369 lb-ft - and launches to 60 in well under 7 seconds." My Jetta test car is not in that performance league but it's a pleasure to drive. When the review is available I'll provide you with the link.