These cars impress us with their competent, well-balanced road manners--including the base models. Even more impressive are the Jetta GLI and Golf GTI equipped with the 16-valve 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. Both provide excellent performance with brisk acceleration. Models with the 1.8-liter engine and automatic transmission also accelerate well, but tend to bog down once they shift into third gear. To get the automatic to downshift into second for extra passing power requires a heavy foot on the throttle. A real diamond-in-the-rough is the Jetta GL equipped with the ECOdiesel engine. Not only does it pollute less, it provides real-world fuel economy that approaches or exceeds 40 mpg. Tires grip tenaciously and the firm steering is very responsive. There's some body lean in tight turns, but overall the suspension provides better road-handling ability than is generally found in a subcompact. All Golfs and Jettas are roomy inside, despite their subcompact dimensions, with adequate space in back for two adults. The bucket seats are highly chairlike, providing outstanding back support. Radio and climate controls are mounted high in the center of the dash, where they are easy to see and reach. These utilitarian models both provide generous room for your cargo. The Jetta has a huge trunk, while the rear seats in the Golf fold forward, providing nearly 40 cubic feet of hauling capacity.

Value for the Money
Neither the Golf nor the Jetta is likely to win any beauty contests. However, they are very roomy, economical cars that deliver European performance at a reasonable price.