This is the last post of a three-part diesel series. Part one talked about why diesel is more expensive than gasoline. Part two discussed why diesel consumer vehicles are relatively rare in the United States.

Diesel is a great option for consumers looking for a new car, but what exactly is out there? Since only about 3% of consumer vehicles are diesel-powered, it’s not a surprise if you can’t name too many diesel cars. Don’t fret! Virtually every manufacturer has a diesel model in the works, and some are even selling them now. So, let’s get to it, starting with what is being sold now in the United States. It’s also worth mentioning that there are tax credits available for several of these vehicles!

(Model, starting price, city/hwy mpg from fueleconomy.gov)

• Volkswagen Clean Diesel TDI
  • Jetta Sedan, $22,270, 30/41 mpg
  • Jetta SportWagen, $23,870, 30/41 mpg
  • Touareg 2 SUV, $42,800, 17/25 mpg
• Audi
  • Q7 TDI, $50,900, 17/25 mpg
• Mercedes-Benz
  • R32 BlueTEC Crossover, $49,150, 18/24 mpg
  • E320 BlueTEC Sedan, $52,900, 23/32 mpg
  • ML320 BlueTEC SUV, $48,600, 18/24 mpg
• BMW
  • 335d Sedan, $43,900, 23/36 mpg
  • X5 xDrive35d SUV, $51,200, 19/26

So, those are your current new car diesel options. Volkswagen is leading the pack, but they’ve been doing that with diesels for a long time now. The other available diesels are, shall we say, more luxurious. The least expensive non-VW has a starting price tag of more than double the Jetta! Luckily, many other manufacturers have diesel models in the works that will be much more affordable! So, what diesel options will be coming to America? None of these are guaranteed, but if current diesels start performing well, expect to see some, if not all, of the following models.

• Acura TSX Sedan, but is currently facing an “indefinite” delay. Maybe for 2010, but our fingers are crossed.
• Kia Borrego SUV. This one maybe currently shelved as well.
• Subaru Impreza and Forester.
• Jeep Grand Cherokee CRD. This may actually be currently available, but the site is vague, and I’ve heard very little about it.
• Nissan Maxima Sedan. Maybe for 2010.