Spotted a few photos on a blog and thought it might wet the appetite while we wait patiently for the new TDI ... I really like this one! Thanks Marty Padgett and enjoy your gas version of the 2009 VW Jetta Sportwagen. Go to the Carconnection blog and click photos for larger images.

With the hotness of the wagon market growing, VW convinced itself last year to offer the wagon version of the Jetta once more. It had been dropped from the company’s U.S. lineup in the 2004 model year. The big improvement this time around? A much sleeker wagon back, compared with the boxy version last seen in the States.

The new Sportwagen will offer all the safety equipment found in the Jetta sedan, including anti-lock brakes, traction and stability control, and six airbags.

Under the hood, U.S. Sportwagens will get a 2.5-liter in-line five with 170 horsepower, or a 200-hp, turbocharged and direct-injected 2.0-liter four. Manual and automatic transmissions are offered.

Coming next year is the option that many VW fans are waiting for — the new Jetta diesel wagon. The 2.0-liter TDI version will meet the tough new U.S. diesel emissions requirements and will be offered in all 50 states, without having to use a urea aftertreatment like the Bluetec Benzes.

The Sportwagen’s expected to come in at about $18,000 base, but the gyrating dollar could change that. Stay tuned as we drive the new Jetta wagon and bring you more details tomorrow.

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