I had the opportunity to drive a European Golf turbo diesel last year and it was incredible. It got 54mpg (6 speed manual) and it pulled hard! Handling was exceptional, braking was so damn good that you couldn't help but drive it like a race car. I would have bought one on the spot but of course the American version has quite a bit less horsepower due to the emissions components. And to top it all off, the Jetta I have right now is up to 160k miles and I've only had to do about $1000 in maintenance (timing belt) not including oil changes/brake pads. I can't wait for this one to crap out so I have an excuse to get another!
