I like the looks of the new car, but I find it a more compelling car with the 2.5L engine. Not as anemic as the base model, not as expensive as the diesel, and still with reasonable gas mileage. A well-equipped Sportline 2.5L can be had for under $24K, which has the leatherette interior, sunroof, sport seats/suspension and 17" alloys. That's the one to get, IMO.
I wish we got the Polo diesel here in NA. If mileage were really king, this little tidbit would top the charts.