2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf: Road Test
2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf ▼
- MSRP: $14,900 - $24,170
- Invoice: $13,904 - $21,976
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Our road test for the 2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf includes a full evaluation of the 2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf help you decide if a 2000 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 7 | 3 | 5 | 3.7 |
The new turbo gas four might be the best all-around engine choice, furnishing lively, lag-free acceleration at lower cost and with better fuel economy than the V6. The gas 4-cylinder feels lazy, but the turbodiesel is surprisingly strong up to about 60 mph. Our 5-speed V6 GTI VR6 did 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.6 |
In our tests, V6 Jettas and Golfs averaged 23.5 mpg with manual transmission and 18.6-21.6 with automatic. A Golf GL 5-speed returned 25 mpg, and a 5-speed Jetta 1.8T averaged 26.1. TDI models are surprisingly spritely around town and get terrific mileage; our test 5-speed TDI Golf averaged 41.5 mpg.
RIDE QUALITY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 3.5 |
Firm, but comfortable and stable.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
All Jettas and Golfs have sporty road manners. V6 models handle best, though they have more body lean than expected.
QUIETNESS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 3.6 |
Interior noise levels are among the lowest in the subcompact class. All engines are quiet, though the TDIs are somewhat noisier above 65 mph or so.
CONTROLS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.5 |
Gauges and switches are simple, logically arranged, and nicely backlit, but low-mounted audio and climate controls are tricky to adjust while driving.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Head and leg room are exceptional--even on models with the optional sunroof. Seats are firm and supportive.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2.8 |
Typical for the subcompact class. Head and leg room are good for anyone under 6-feet, but there's not enough width to seat three--even uncomfortably.
CARGO ROOM
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Jetta boasts a large-for-the-class trunk, Golfs offer hatchback versatility, and all models have 60/40 split-fold rear seats, plus a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 4 | 6 | 6 | 4.2 |
Jetta and Golf are priced at the top of the subcompact class, but even base versions are loaded with standard features, and no competitor offers a V6 engine. Solid build quality and fine warranty coverage are other pluses that earn these VWs our Recommended label.
Total Score
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T, auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 53 | 54 | 50 | 52 | 41.7 |
Total Score: 53
Scores for all Compact Cars
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