I don't understand how 42 mpg highway is pathetic.
EPA rates a 2006 Jetta TDI at 38 mpg for the automatic (the manual is 37). The Cruze is 4 mpg higher while meeting much more stringent emissions.
2006 Jetta TDI owners are averaging 41.1 mpg.
Compare Side-by-Side
I suspect that people will average higher than 42 mpg with the Cruze diesel as well.