After much anticipation Volkswagen has finally released the fuel-economy numbers for the 2010 Golf TDI, with the DSG equipped model achieving a rating of 31/42 mg (city/highway). Manual transmission TDI models are rated at 30/41 mpg. As for the standard gasoline-powered Golf with the 2.5-liter engine, it is rated at 22/30 mpg.

The Golf starts at $17,490, while the TDI is priced from $21,990. The price increase for the TDI is based on VW’s decision to take it slightly more up-market, by equipping it with standard features like a stiffer and lower suspension and a touch screen audio system (like in the new 2010 GTI.. reviewed here). DSG models will get steering wheel mounted paddle shifters and expect to pay an $1,100 premium for VW’s advances DSG automatic transmission.

GALLERY: 2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI

Volkswagen showcased the 2010 Golf TDI at this year’s New York Auto Show but since then the German automaker has been quiet about actually bringing the fuel-efficient diesel back to the U.S. Now it appears that decision has been made as Volkswagen U.S.A. has now put up live pages on its website giving full details of the new 2010 models – including the Golf TDI. (Those pages aren’t linkable from the home page however, and likely won’t be until the official announcement from VW).

Much like its Jetta sibling the Golf TDI will get VW’s 2.0-liter turbo diesel motor with 140hp and 236 ft-lbs of torque. Fuel economy is rated at 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway with either the six-speed manual or VW’s incredible quick-shifting DSG automatic. Interestingly, however, the EPA actually has the TDI listed at 30/42 mpg. As for performance, the serious amounts of torque help this fuel-miser hit 60 mph in a reasonable 8.6 seconds.

Standard features include a 3-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning, cruise control, power locks/windows/mirrors, 17-inch wheels, ABS, stability control, a tire pressure monitoring system and six airbags.

The 2010 Golf TDI will be available as both a two-door and four-door model, priced at $21,990 and $22,590 respectively.

[Source: Volkswagen]