2010 German Diesel Car Roundup

In the United States, the 2010 diesel car lineup is more diverse than it's been in a long time. Scan the list of 2010 diesel vehicles below, and you'll realize diesel technology is experiencing a bit of a resurgence. Once thought of as loud, clunky and dirty, new innovations are bringing engine performance up to par with traditional gas equivalents. Combine this with the ability to net near-hybrid fuel efficiency numbers, and it's clear why diesel technology is being brought back into the dealerships.

The 2010 diesel vehicle lineup is dominated by German automakers. Diesels have always been more popular in the European market, and this is largely the reason for the strong showing from the Germans.

2010 Volkswagen Diesel Vehicles

Volkswagen has three diesel vehicle options for 2010 – making them the go-to manufacturer for affordable diesel options. All three VW diesels boast turbocharged direct injection. As such, you can easily pick out a diesel VW by looking for the TDI badging.

These three vehicles are the 2010 VW Jetta TDI, 2010 VW Golf TDI and 2010 VW Touareg TDI. Both the Jetta diesel and Touareg diesel are carryovers from the 2009 model year. The Volkswagen Golf TDI is all-new, and boasts an impressive 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. The 2010 Jetta TDI, equipped with the same engine, deliver similar fuel economy. The upscale Touareg SUV offers 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.

2010 Audi Diesel Vehicles

Two vehicles within Volkswagen's luxury brand receive the TDI treatment. The 2010 Audi A3 2.0 TDI is a clean-looking hatchback that delivers 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. If you like the idea of a VW Golf, but prefer the added luxury and prestige of an Audi, then this may be the diesel car for you.

The Audi Q7 TDI is a luxury SUV that nets 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. The 2010 Q7 TDI is a smart choice for families looking for exceptional safety in an upscale package.

2010 BMW Diesel Vehicles

BMW denotes their diesel vehicles by dropping a lower-case "d" at the end of the title. For example, the two BMW diesel options for 2010 are the 2010 BMW 335d and 2010 BMW X5 xDrive35d. In relation to the traditional gas-engine 335i, the 2010 335d boosts combined fuel efficiency by a full 7 mpg. City mileage is rated at 23 mpg and highway mileage comes in at 36 mpg. This may be the best 2010 diesel option for you if you're looking for superior performance, and don't mind paying for it.

The 2010 BMW X5 xDrive35d achieves 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Like all BMW's the vehicle is tuned to deliver impeccable vehicle performance and agility. Plush interior amenities add to this diesel's appeal.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Diesel Vehicles

Mercedes-Benz offers three diesel vehicles for 2010 (all badged as BlueTEC). The 2010 Mercedes-Benz R320 BlueTEC serves as the only diesel crossover vehicle for 2010. Along with above-average fuel efficiency (18 mpg city and 26 mpg highway), the MB R350 diesel delivers Mercedes-Benz's famous level of luxury, as well as comfortable seating for up to six passengers.

The 2010 Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTEC is a mid-size diesel SUV that promises 18 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. With class-leading amenities, this is the SUV of choice for luxury owners who don't want to compromise performance for hybrid technology.

Finally, the full-size Mercedes-Benz GL350 BlueTEC is a great luxury option for those who prefer comfort over engine performance. The 2010 GL350 diesel offers 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.