Diesels Trail Hybrids in MPG Race

The good news for car buyers looking for fuel efficient options is that they have more diesel vehicles to choose from than in years past. While diesels can offer higher MPG than their gasoline counterparts, the most comparable hybrids are a better bargain (at least on paper).

While for the 2007 model year there was just one diesel passenger vehicle (the Volkswagen Touareg SUV) for sale, the Diesel vehicles -- cleaner and better than ever, are back on the scene and are expected to compete with hybrids for fuel-conscious consumers. The 2008 Fuel Economy Guide lists seven diesel vehicles -- the Mercedes Bluetec sedan plus six SUVs.

As you can see in the chart, the Mercedes sedan offers much higher MPG (27-21 combined) than its closest competing hybrid, the upscale Lexus 600h. Yes, there are other hybrid sedans that trounce the Mercedes in MPG, but comparing it to a Prius really ain't fair.

As you can see by the ratio of base price to MPG in the SUV category, the diesels from Jeep and Mercedes are more expensive if you only (and most people don't) consider fuel economy for similarly comfortable and powerful vehicles. The hybrids also include generous tax credits, something that Congress hasn't bestowed upon diesel vehicles.

I'm glad to see more diesel vehicles on the market