Originally Posted By: bigjl
Originally Posted By: jayg
Originally Posted By: dnewton3
I really wish the US industry had not walked away from small diesels so easily, but I certainly understand the market response; people didn't want them and they did not sell well. I would love to have a small 3 or 4 cyl turbo diesel car now, but I simply don't want the added expense and maintenance issues now prominent with the added manure of DPF, heavy EGR use, SCR DEF, etc.
Well blame the EPA, you can't get around it (legally). That said, I get over 50 mpg hwy in my 2012 Jetta 6 sp. 46 mpg average lifetime mixed driving and that is with a DPF and stock tune. This model does not have DEF however.
The cruze diesel is interesting but no 3 pedal option rules it out for me.
The thing about your post that does make me chuckle is that the US has historically been more inclined to have automatic vehicles
Europe and specifically the UK historically was more inclined to have manual
Now more and more in the UK are going to auto and you rule a car out due to no manual option
Strange how tastes change over time
The Cruze is available with manual in Europe though, but is only a bit player in the market as it is dynamically off the mark and there are many better options for the money.
This may change as they have brought out a much needed estate. Small saloon cars sell poorly in the UK
I always thought it was a nice looking car
Keep in mind your on an automotive enthusiast forum, so the percetage of forum goers that prefer manuals should be much higher than your average american.
Have you seen the old valvoline atf presentation?
http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3188949#Post3188949