2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan TDI

Pros

Excellent fuel economy and looks, solid build, great fuel economy so far, loads of torqe

Cons

Should have gotten a Loyal Edition w/ a sunroof, you'll pay MSRP

I drive over 500 miles to and from work (I carpool also) plus miles to dog training and weekend errands. So I need a fuel efficient, comfortable car. I traded in my Toyota Yaris for a Reflex Silver Jetta TDI....my first diesel. I should have gotten the Loyal Edition on pre-order with a sunroof, but I held off until I could drive one. I paid $1500 over MSRP. However, there is a $1300 tax credit available. Talk to your dealer about this and do some research on the IRS website for details. Another perk....carefree maintenance @ your local VW dealer for 3 yrs/36K which ever one comes first.
Solid build, leatherette interior, onboard computer with steering wheel controls (MPG, compass, sound system volume, options for lighting, and other stuff I haven't played with yet). The stock sound system in the TDI is complete with Sirius sat radio, 6 disc changer, iPod adapter and speakers everywhere.
The ride is superb. Doesn't feel like a Japanese economy car. Fuel economy on my first fill up was 38 combined. DSG transmission keeps you nicely tucked in the power band. A six-speed manual might have been more fun, but shifting gets old after a few years. I don't think they're even delivered with a manual right now...maybe in 2009 they will be. Again, check with your dealer.
Seats are very comfortable and easy to clean if you get the leatherette. Loads of room for four...five becomes very tight.
Frontal and side curtain air bags with solid steel cage construction and crumple zones make me feel very safe. A defeatable electronic stabilization program comes standard on the TDI...not sure about the other Jetta trims...check the internet or with your dealer. The retractable key fob remote is pretty cool too.
Feel good about going green...seriously, I doubt a chemical-laden hybrid can match the greenhouse gas emissions of a Jetta TDI.
Don't sweat the quality of this car, it's very solid. Interior appointments are simple yet tasteful. VW has build a reputation around diesel powered vehicles. It's not a smogger either with a four stage exhaust cleanup system guaranteed for 8 yrs/80k.
I can't recommend this car enough.