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The New Volkswagen EOS and TDI Models On Stage in L.A.


PHOTO (select to view enlarged photo)

SEE ALSO: Complete 2010 LA Auto Show Coverage

By Henny Hemmes
Senior European Editor
The Auto Channel


LOS ANGELES, November 19, 2010; Volkswagen AG flew a group of German journalists to California, to give them the first look at the second generation of the Eos coupe convertible. (See unveiling HERE

With winter arriving now in Europe, Los Angeles is definitely the right place for such a launch. Even more important than the unveiling of a niche model such as the Eos, is the presence of four TDI models at the LA Auto Show. The American customers will see more diesel variants coming on the market, since LSD (low sulfur diesel fuel) is available in 50 states in the US for some three years now.

Volkswagen’s TDI models(turbocharged direct injected diesel) are well settled on the European markets for many, many years. I have always wondered why Americans still do not look at diesel engines as an option for an alternative for gasoline. To say it simple: you get more miles to the gallon with diesel fuel.

The Polo, Passat, Jetta and Touran TDI made it (again) to the LA stage, all colored white and standing in line.

Volkswagen has a long status of building clean and fuel-efficient diesel engines. The Golf TDI, for instance has an EPA rating of 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway, which is better than some hybrids.

I think it is time that America forgets the past and looks forward. Here is absolutely nothing wrong with modern diesel engine technology. Diesels have more torque than gasoline engines at low speed and therefore have a lot of pulling power. And, as said excellent fuel economy.

Look for the 2012 Volkswagen Eos to hit U.S. showrooms next March.