Will VW Introduce a Performance Diesel GTI?

Volkswagen is Canada's Largest Purveyor of Diesel Engine Passenger Vehicles

Canada seems to be the most open-minded of the North American markets when it comes to

Diesel powered cars are becoming more and more popular in Canada. (Photo: Volkswagen Canada)

accepting the idea of diesel-fueled passenger cars.

North of the 49th parallel, diesel fuel is widely available, and what's more, it's becoming a popular choice amongst consumers. Aside from the traditional heavy-duty pickup trucks and cargo vans, more and more companies are offering diesel as a power source for cars. Check out DaimlerChrysler, which has just started offering a diesel-powered Liberty compact SUV, plus the world's smallest city car, the smart fortwo cdi, and further upmarket, the quiet and efficient Mercedes-Benz E320 CDI.

The biggest marketer of diesels in North America, however, is Volkswagen. In Canada, TDI-powered vehicles account for 40 percent of all sales, a gigantic number for a

In Canada, TDI-powered vehicles account for 40 percent of all sales, a gigantic number for a manufacturer with a portfolio as broad as VW. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

manufacturer with a portfolio as broad as VW. This year sees all of its vehicles except the super-luxurious Phaeton available with TDI power, including the popular Passat midsize sedan with its advanced 2.0L TDI, and the Touareg SUV with its massive 5.0L V10 TDI. It's no wonder why Canadians are hooked on diesel fuel - it's usually cheaper than gas, and according to Karsten Hummel, Volkswagen's vice-president for Diesel Engineering, modern diesel engines produce consumption figures that are on average 30 percent more efficient than gasoline-powered cars, and engines powered by it make twice the torque and up to 25 percent fewer C02 emissions.