MONTVALE, N.J. - Mercedes-Benz new line of Bluetec vehicles will join Volkswagen’s Jetta TDI as clean-diesel vehicles that qualify for the IRS’ alternative-powertrain tax credit. It used to be that just hybrid vehicles qualified for the credit, but the advance of clean-diesel technology has allowed the two German automakers to secure the coveted tax break for their diesel lines, according to http://blogs.cars.com.

The credits only count toward the first 60,000 units sold, and they vary depending on a vehicle’s fuel economy. For instance, the Benz ML320 Bluetec qualifies for a $900 rebate, but step up to the GL320 and you’re looking at a $1,800 credit. The Jetta TDI is on sale now, and the Bluetec line will hit showrooms in October.