Diesel Vs. Hybrid Revisited, TDI Vs. Prius, Who Wins?

It is probably one of the most debated topics of the green generation; diesel vs. hybrid.

And like a boxing match, we're going to put the two strongest offerings from each group for a showdown of epic proportions. We welcome the Volkswagen Jetta TDI and the Toyota Prius Hybrid to their respective corners because it is time to squaredance, ladies and gents.

Of course we know that there is something fun about the torquey powerband a diesel provides. Additionally, it drives like a normal car, thus, it has constant power. Problem is, its MPG cannot be nearly as lofty as the Prius'.

On the other hand, if you want to enjoy a quieter ride with a brilliant amount of miles to the gallon, plus saving some bucks in your pocket, the Prius wins hands down. Its problem? Well, it just isn't nearly as much fun as that torque monster.

So, who takes the green crown? And, why?

For the full details and justifications, click "Read Article" for more.


In one corner, the ultimate modern symbol of environmental responsibility, the Toyota Prius. In the other, the best current example of automotive thrift and efficiency as defined in Europe, where space and resources are traditionally scarce and expensive, the Volkswagen Jetta TDI.

Now in its third generation and second decade on the U.S. market, the Toyota Prius has successfully pioneered hybrid-electric powertrain technology and etched it into the American psyche as the most valid tool currently available to reduce one's fuel consumption and carbon footprint. The "Clean Diesel"-powered Volkswagen Jetta TDI offers exceptional fuel economy and remarkably clean running with the latest in direct-injected and turbocharged diesel engine technology. Both cars have die-hard fans, great strengths and a few drawbacks...

[Source: MSN Autos]








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DaHarder - 7/12/2010 9:52:25 PM

+6 Boost

"Who Wins"... the Consumer!

drell1emc - 7/12/2010 10:09:02 PM

+2 Boost

diesel-hybrids will be a winner, no argument here.

t_bone - 7/13/2010 1:16:21 AM

+7 Boost

The Prius is just shockingly bad to drive, where the Jetta drives like a better car than it should--but moderately underpowered. I'll go with the TDI; even though I like the idea of hybrids no one is doing them quite right yet. And a bad car is a bad car, which is what the Prius is.

Agent00R - 7/13/2010 10:54:10 AM

+2 Boost

@t_bone

I disagree. The Prius is not bad to drive, at all, if your primary goal is to obtain a high MPG. It IS pleasurable if you're NOT looking for an enthusiast driving experience. 001 and I think it is a damn good car, hybrid or NOT.

The TDI is built with the intention of having a good time and acquiring a respectable MPG. Which it does both; mission accomplished. Underpowered? Maybe by contemporary standards where just about any "normal" car has 300-hp and 300 lb-ft of torque, but it reaches speed fine if you have the DSG. A manual requires some good shifting.

0to60 - 7/13/2010 11:42:30 AM

0 Boost

I drove the HS and found it to be interesting to drive. No it didnt offer porsche like performance, but its not suppose to nor should it be compared as such. In the end I did find the HS to be fun to drive. Gave me a lot to play with.

t_bone - 7/14/2010 9:49:20 AM

+1 Boost

@Agent00R: The thing is, there's nothing inherent to hybrids that makes the Prius a bad drive...but it sure is feeding negative perceptions. The steering, for example, is at least 30% of why I hate the drive. It is pure playstation, zero feedback from the road. The car is also slightly too tall, and the suspension should be lowered about an inch. With those changes they could retain the same soft suspension but with a lot less body roll and resistance to crosswinds on the highway.

drell1emc - 7/13/2010 7:13:43 AM

+2 Boost

you have the diesel and you have the hybrid what new cost are there? most auto companyuse the same trans with their diesel and gas engines.

2ndbimmer - 7/13/2010 10:42:09 AM

+1 Boost

hybrids are just boring to drive in general. Its a clear winner here, the TDI. I would prefer the BMW 335d because of the power, torque and proper driving dynamics. They also have a $4500 eco-credit available. Plus, getting mileage in the 30's and 0-60 in the low 5's, who wouldnt want that?

Agent63 - 7/13/2010 2:00:26 PM

+1 Boost

I personally like the diesels better because of the torque. I don't like to drive slow so the Prius would never settle well for me. The diesel vs hybrid will always go on. Pros and cons for both I suppose. I'm not into the whole social hybrid world yet. Although I acknowledge it and see that they are built for those who intend to use them as such.

thstone - 7/13/2010 4:40:55 PM

0 Boost

Winner: Prius

All that matters in this segment is mpg.

IamEvilHomer - 7/13/2010 5:33:50 PM

+2 Boost

not to me
i drive a TDI
if all you want is MPG then get a TDI in less you only drive around town.

TDI has 5 times the life cycle also