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Vehicles with the same name sometimes come with different personalities. At Volkswagen, for example, there’s a compact Jetta VR6 that boasts high performance and a compact Jetta TDI that boasts high mileage.

We tested the 2000 Jetta GLS TDI, with its 1.9-liter, 90-h.p. turbocharged direct-injection 4-cylinder diesel engine.

While those 90 horses don’t explode off the line, the diesel will surprise motorists in gas-powered cars with its ability to scoot into traffic. VW focused on low-end torque to provide an initial burst of power before acting like a meant-for-mileage diesel.

TDI performance is measured by its 42 m.p.g. city/49 m.p.g. highway fuel-economy rating, numbers that usually mean you have to accept a tiny cramped cabin unable to keep out the sound of a diesel pinging away.

The Jetta, however, features a roomy cabin with minimum diesel commotion filtering inside. Unless those inside roll down the windows or those outside lean up against a front fender at idle, most would be hard-pressed to tell it’s a diesel.

Actually, the loudest sound at takeoff is the power door locks programmed to lock once you start moving. Sounds like wrenches dropping in a 50-gallon steel drum as the locks slam down. Needs work.

While fuel economy is outstanding, a diesel isn’t for everyone. Despite the driving range, you must plan travel around access to a non-traditional fuel supply if not taking interstates with their frequent truck stops. And you never know when diesel will cost more or less than gasoline or when an 18-wheeler will pull up to the pump ahead of you.

Base price of the TDI is $18,700. Only additions were a cold-weather package with heated seats and windshield squirter nozzles at $150 and a Monsoon sound system at $295. Add $525 for freight.

ABS, dual front and side impact air bags, cruise control, telescoping steering wheel, air conditioning, power windows/mirrors/ locks and rear window defroster are standard.