AutomobileMag Forums

Help! I'm in the market for a new car (I'm definitely buying used) and I want better gas mileage.  I'm considering a 2006 prius, but I'm also considering a 2006 golf TDI.  I don't know a whole lot about diesels but I've been doing some reading and it seems like that with my big highway commute it might be a better option than a hybrid.   I'd appreciate any feedback, particularly on the diesel!  Here are the two cars :  

The Golf will be much more fun to drive and the highway mileage will be excellent. The Prius will most likely be more economical in the city. The big issue now is the price of diesel fuel and that the older TDI engines aren't that clean. You'll enjoy the VW more but my love for diesel vehicles is dulled by the fuel cost. The Prius should also be more reliable. Drive them both and buy the one you like.  

I second that recommendation.  The Golf TDI is a fantastic little car that's both fun and fuel efficient.  The highway mileage is awesome, and the interior is light years ahead of the Prius'.  The only downsides I can see to owning the VW is the current outrageous price of diesel and some reliability issues from that generation of Golf.  The Prius, while reliable, is ugly, slow, and no fun whatsoever.  You should also remember that hybrids are still a relatively new development, and it's unclear what kinds of problems and expenses may emerge as the cars age.  However, depending on where you live, the Prius could be an awesome commuter car if you face miles of congested highways.  Here in California the Prius gets special privileges in the carpool lane, allowing you to travel solo and potentially saving you a ton of time on the road.  I don't know if your commute involves carpool lanes or if your state allows this, but it's something to take into consideration.  

thanks guys, appreciate all your comments.