1999-2005 Volkswagen Golf/Jetta: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

As the 1999 model year opened, Volkswagen dealers continued to sell remaining Golf and Jetta models from the prior generation. Redesigned models emerged a couple of months later. As before, Golf models were hatchbacks while Jetta denoted the notchback design. Golf hatchbacks came in 4-door GL and GTI form, along with a 4-door GLS. Jetta 4-door sedans were offered in GL, GLS and GLX trim. Jettas consistently outsold their hatchback Golf counterparts. GL and GLS models again got a 4-cylinder gasoline engine that produced 115 horsepower. A turbodiesel 4-cylinder went into GL TDI and GLS TDI versions. A 2.8-liter V6, rated at 174 horsepower, was available for the GTI and GLS, and standard in the Jetta GLX. Five-speed manual shift was standard, but all models except the Golf GTI GLX had the option of a four-speed automatic transmission. Standard features included front side airbags, a tilt/telescopic steering column, 4-wheel disc antilock braking, and a remote central-locking/antitheft system.