Best 2009 family car ($22,000-$30,000)

PETER BLEAKNEY FOR THE TORONTO STAR

Volkswagen Jetta TDI Wagon

Peter Bleakney

SPECIAL TO THE STAR

BEST: VW Jetta TDI Wagon

I like this car for its utility, European driving feel, solid construction, and most important, that wonderful 140 hp 2.0 L common-rail turbodiesel four that gives this family hauler all kinds of grunt (236 lb.-ft. of torque from 1750-2500 rpm) while sipping fuel at a sanctimonious 5.9 L/100 km (48 m.p.g.) in combined driving.

Of great appeal is the large, well-trimmed cargo area. With the 60/40 rear seats folded, it actually exceeds the larger Passat wagon.

Seems I'm not the only one who likes this car. Supply has been limited since its introduction, and a friend of mine who recently had his heart set on a base model with manual transmission was unable to find one anywhere. The more comprehensively equipped cars, which dealers prefer to sell, were the only ones coming down the supply chain.

This will be the only year (2009) for the Jetta TDI Wagon as it shuffles off to make way for the 2010 Golf Wagon TDI.

NEXT BEST: Mazda6

With a starting price of just $23,195 (add $1,100 for 5-speed automatic with Sport mode), the 2009 Mazda 6 sedan impresses with its sporty dynamics and excellent steering feel.

It's also quite a fetching piece, featuring Mazda's new bold design theme that sets it apart from some of the more mundane offerings in this class.

The 6 has a well designed and executed interior that offers generous back seat legroom. Power comes from a 170 hp 2.5L four.

Factor in standard 17" alloys, traction control, six airbags, electronic brake force distribution, cruise with steering wheel mounted controls, and five-star front crash, side crash and rollover resistance rating, and the Mazda 6 is hard to ignore.

ALSO CONSIDER:

Hyundai Elantra Touring GL Sport ($22,395): It's stylish, well-equipped, functional.

Ford Fusion SE ($22,799): Good driving dynamics with smooth ride and quality construction.

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