A new federal fuel standard will require the nation’s automobiles to have an average fuel mileage of 35.5 miles per gallon by the 2012 model year, but buyers who consider used Volkswagen Jettas in New York powered by diesel engines may already be ahead of the curve.

The new initiative was announced by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Transportation and will be the first nationwide standard to include the effects of emissions, according to the agencies.

“These proposed standards would help consumers save money at the gas pump, help the environment, and decrease our dependence on oil – all while ensuring that consumers still have a full range of vehicle choices,” said Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood during the announcement.

People in the market for a car won’t have to look at either more expensive new cars or hybrids if they want to match the government’s goals, since used Volkswagen Jettas in New York may offer similar fuel efficiency.

The 2006 model had an EPA estimated city fuel mileage of 36 mph, and 41 mpg in highway driving in a “fairly quiet package,” notes a Cars.com review.