2014 Chevrolet Cruze Diesel Vs. 2013 VW Jetta TDI

When it comes to power, the diesel engine in the Cruze makes 151 horsepower and 264 lb-ft of torque. That’s a lot of twist and isn’t even the peak as an overboost function allows the diesel engine in the Cruze to put out 280 lb-ft for up to 10 seconds. By comparison the VW Jetta TDI’s motor is down 11 hp and 28 lb-ft. So far, so good for the Chevy.

But the story quickly flips around when it comes to transmissions and fuel economy. The VW Jetta’s quick-shifting dual-clutch automatic transmission feels sporty, but abrupt shifts during slower driving leave it feeling unrefined. It’s still better than the lazy-feeling torque converter automatic in the Cruze Diesel, and helps the car get 30 mpg in the city, 42 mpg on the highway, and 34 mpg combined according to official estimates. The Cruze Diesel is rated at 27 mpg in the city and 46 on the highway for a combined 33.

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Those looking for a lower price of entry to the diesel club will prefer the Jetta. Starting at $23,850 after delivery, our fully-loaded “Premium” model with navigation and a dual-clutch transmission comes to almost $28,000. On the other hand, diesel Cruze starts just under $26,000 and climbs to about $29,000 when generously equipped.

Chalk the drastic difference in base pricing up to Volkswagen offering its base model with a manual transmission. Few drivers are likely to take the stick, but it’s nice to know it’s available.

You’ve probably noticed that both cars are more expensive then the gasoline versions. Diesel engines use a much higher compression ratio than gasoline vehicles. Consequently, manufacturers are forced to use heavier, more expensive components. Those costs are ultimately passed on to whoever buys the car.

Over time, fuel savings can marginalize and even surpass the difference, but it’s a question of how long you’re planning to keep the car. More miles – theoretically – means more money saved.

With that in mind, we planned a route split evenly between city and highway speeds to test the real-world fuel consumption of both cars.

Like the Cruze Eco, the diesel model features the same active grille shutters, trunk-lid spoiler and aerodynamic underbody panels for improved aerodynamics. The Cruze also can also come with blind spot monitoring and a rear-view camera for easier parking.

The Jetta skips aero tricks and extra safety gear. While blind spot monitoring is nice to have, the Jetta turned out to be the winner here with 47 mpg on the highway compared to 39 in the Cruze.

There’s very little to complain about with the cabin quality in either car. The diesel Cruze is only offered in the second-highest trim level within its model range to include leather upholstery and heated front seats. Chevrolet’s MyLink touch screen radio is also standard on all diesel models.

Side-by-side, the Jetta ends up looking plain and conservative. Its cabin manages to hide hard plastic pieces. There isn’t as much equipment in the standard features column, but that ends up lending the cabin a clean look and feel. Especially considering the Cruze comes with real leather, the Jetta’s leatherette seats are a bit of a letdown.

Meanwhile, stop-and-go driving highlights the Jetta’s weaknesses. The transmission is rough in slower moving traffic and the steering also feels too heavy at slower speeds.

Without a doubt, the Cruze is more comfortable in the city and the extra power and torque help it stay in the flow of traffic better. The downside is that it makes more noise than the Jetta. The Chevys low-rolling resistance tires also squealed and chirped often.

Around town, Chevrolet came up the winner with 36 mpg compared to 33 in the Jetta. On average, the Jetta came out ahead with an average 39 mpg to the Cruze with 35.

Choosing the best car here isn’t easy, since it all depends on what kind of driver you are. Those looking at buying a diesel car are likely more concerned with fuel economy and saving money. For that driver, the Jetta is the unbeatable since it’s available at a cheaper price than the Cruze and returns better fuel economy.

However, the Cruze Diesel is a valiant effort by the General since it pairs good fuel economy with high-end, useful features. Take your pick and it’s hard to be upset at the results.