2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf: Road Test
2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf ▼
- MSRP: $15,050 - $26,275
- Invoice: $14,037 - $23,951
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Our road test for the 2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf includes a full evaluation of the 2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2001 Volkswagen Jetta/Golf help you decide if a 2001 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 w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 6 | 3 | 5 | 3.7 |
Base 2.0 feels dull. Better choice is the 1.8T. Test 1.8T Jetta with automatic transmission clocked 8.9 sec 0-60 mph, though suffered some annoying turbo lag. Test manual VR6 GTI did 0-60 in brisk 7.6 sec. Turbodiesel a fine cruiser and has surprisingly good punch around town.
FUEL ECONOMY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | 6 | 7 | 7 | 6.8 |
Test V6 models averaged 23.5 mpg with manual transmission, 18.6-21.6 with automatic. Test 2.0-liter 4-cyl Golf with manual averaged 25 mpg. Jetta 1.8T averaged 26.1 mpg with manual and 25.5 with automatic. TDI Golf with manual averaged 41.5 mpg. VW recommends premium fuel for V6, requires it for 1.8T.
RIDE QUALITY
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 3.7 |
Best overall in the subcompact class--with standard suspensions and tires. Firm but absorbent on V6 and 1.8T models, softer but well controlled on others. Optional sport suspension in combination with 17-inch wheels and tires turns ride jittery on most any pavement imperfection--try before you buy.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 8 | 6 | 7 | 4.2 |
All models are nimble and feel sporty. V6s and 1.8Ts handle best, though with more cornering lean than is ideal. Sport suspension and 17-inch wheels pay dividends with sharper steering response, terrific smooth-road grip. Brakes provide short, stable emergency stops.
QUIETNESS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 6 | 5 | 3.6 |
One of the more refined subcompacts. TDIs a bit gruff above 65 mph, but other engines sound nice and don't intrude much. Jettas isolate wind and tire noise better than Golf's hatchback body, but neither blocks out road roar from the optional 17-inch tires.
CONTROLS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 5.5 |
Mostly clear and well arranged, but low-mount audio and climate controls not always easy to adjust while driving. Lighted lock and window switches on doors an unexpected small-car nicety. Sophisticated cabin materials set the small-car standard.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.3 |
Above-average head and leg room even with sunroof. Firm, supportive seats with easy-to-use height adjusters. Standard tilt/telescope steering wheel also helps tailor a good basic driving stance. Easy outward vision except dead astern in Jettas.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 3.1 |
OK for two 6-footers, but not wide enough for three; leg room tight with front seats pushed back. Entry/exit a squeeze on 2-dr models, better but not super easy on 4-drs.
CARGO ROOM
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 3 | 3 | 3.3 |
Jetta's trunk is large for the class. Golfs are hatchback versatile, new Jetta wagon tops all subcompact wagons for cargo volume at 70.6 cu. ft. All models have split-fold rear seats and low load sills.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 7 | 4.6 |
Rather pricey for subcompacts, so not quite Best Buys. But Jettas and Golfs are strongly recommended for their suave Euro personality, high-grade interior materials, safety features, and solid workmanship. The 1.8T models are the best overall values in this bunch.
Total Score
| Golf GLS TDI, man. | Golf GTI VR6 | Jetta GL, man. | Jetta 1.8T w/Sport Lux. Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | 57 | 54 | 54 | 42.8 |
Total Score: 57
Scores for all Compact Cars
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