Fuel prices are still down and most buyers aren't investing in efficient transport. Dealers are having a hard time moving diesel cars, given their higher upfront cost in addition to the premium at the pump. But for those of you that like oil-burners, now is the time to strike. Here are some of the best diesel deals.
Keep in mind the following are just examples of what you can find in the new car market. Many of these prices include factory incentives that you may or may not qualify for. Check the manufacturer's webpage and your dealership for local incentives
Chevy Cruze Diesel - $10,000 off MSRP
The poor Chevy Cruze diesel; many people don't even realize it exists. That's bad for GM, but it's good for you. The Cruze gets lost among the Civics and Corollas, but it is a spacious car for its class and comes with some nice features. Opt for the diesel power-plant and you will get up to 46 MPG on the highway. For less than $16,000 that would make for a great long distance commuter car.
2014 Jetta Sportwagen TDI - $5000 off MSRP
The all new MK7 Sportwagen TDI is due to hit the showroom sometime in April. It will be worth the wait, but the MK6 car is still a great choice if you need something that is spacious, fuel efficient, and not a total bore to drive. Finding an example with 3-pedals might be a challenge, but even with the DSG it is still fun to toss around.
2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD Limited EcoDiesel - $7000 of MSRP
Despite my position that families should buy a minivan, I understand the desire for an SUV. The Jeep Grand Cherokee certainly feels like a luxury car despite not having a European badge. You can have yourself a nice family hauler with 420 ft/lbs of torque and four-wheel drive.
2015 Ram Tradesman Diesel - $9,000 off MSRP
Sometimes you need a truck...to haul things, like boats, or houses...or boat houses. That means you need a diesel engine to get the job done. How about a towing capacity of 9200 lbs and up to 28 mpg on the highway in this 2015 1500 Tradesman 4X4 Crew-Cab? Yeah that should do it.
I have mentioned previously when you compare the premium fuel prices that most luxury cars require to diesel, it makes even more sense.
2015 BMW 328d Wagon - $6,000 off MSRP
If you were looking for a diesel sportwagon that offered a little more in the way of "sport" than the Volkswagen, a BMW 328d is where you need to be. Again, you are looking at two pedals only, but the ZF 8-speed auto has standard paddle-shifters that give a nice "click" when you move through the gears. The F31 also has generous cargo space and much better handling than an X3.
2014 Audi A7 TDI - $10,000 off MSRP
Who says you can't be frugal and stylish? You want to be cruising in a sexy sport-back sedan and get 38 mpg. No problem, the A7 TDI has both the looks and the moves and at this price it's almost as good as buying a used one.
A few weeks ago the local gas stations in my corner of New Jersey had regular fuel priced around $1.85/gal; now it is creeping up past $2.00/gal. It is only a matter of time before fuel prices start to rise again, and that is when folks will be trading in all their gas guzzling trucks and SUVs for smaller and more fuel efficient vehicles. The market will react and discounts will be harder to find. So if you have been thinking about getting a diesel, take advantage of the deals while you can.
If you have a question, a tip, or something you would like to to share about car-buying, drop me a line at AutomatchConsulting@gmail.com and be sure to include your Kinja handle.