Combined fuel economy for the 2013 Volkswagen Jetta Hybrid is 45 mpg according to VW’s estimate. The automaker expects their first compact hybrid model to be the performance leader in the segment, thanks to a turbocharged engine and 7-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that VW calls DSG. That estimate reflects a significant 32% improvement over the next most efficient Jetta, the turbodiesel-powered TDI, in combined driving. The TDI is EPA-rated at 30 mpg city and 42 mpg highway, and has a combined rating of 34 mpg.

Those driving mostly highway miles should likely still choose the TDI to achieve the best fuel economy. Hybrids typically perform better in the city than on the highway, and the TDI’s 42-mpg highway rating might be tough for the Jetta Hybrid to beat. Furthermore, in my AutoTrader.com test of the 2011 Jetta TDI, I achieved 47.5 mpg highway without adjusting my speed or driving style to promote economy.

But in city or combined driving, the Jetta Hybrid is likely to be VW’s economy champ. It arrives in showrooms in the late fall of this year.