2005.5-2008 Volkswagen Jetta: Road Test

Base and 2.5 models offer good power around-town, but weaken when it's time to pass or merge. Volkswagen's low-revving five-cylinder needs full throttle for best takeoffs, and feels taxed up long grades. One test 2.5 model accelerated to 60 mph in 9.0 seconds, which falls below midpack for the class. Most around-town and highway travel is stress-free, thanks in large measure to the nicely matched six-speed automatic transmission. A diesel TDI is slow off the mark, but fairly strong for midrange passing. The GLI and 2.0T are satisfyingly quick, especially in the 45-65 mph range, where strength is needed most. A test manual-shift GLI accelerated to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds. Fuel economy is passable with gasoline engines, and super with the diesel. Test 2.5 models with automatic averaged 19.7 mpg in mostly city driving, 23.0 to 26.2 mpg in mostly highway use. A GLI sedan averaged 18.1 mpg, including gas-eating performance runs. Further up the frugality spectrum, a stick-shift TDI managed 40.1 mpg. Volkswagen recommends regular-grade for the five-cylinder engine, but premium for the turbo. Ride comfort scores at the top of the class, at least with 15- or 16-inch tires. Minor float occurs over big moguls at highway speed, but otherwise the Jetta is absorbent, quiet, and composed, even on cratered pavement. With its 17-inch tires, the GLI feels jiggly, thumpy--even borderline harsh on all but smooth roads; and 18-inch tires won't improve that situation. In steering/handling, too, Jetta ranks as a compact-class standout, cornering with grippy assurance and modest body lean. The TDI sedan feels slightly more nose-heavy, but offers the same responsive steering as gas-engine models. Elsewhere in the lineup, the GLI offsets its lumpy ride with terrific handling. The antiskid system is a laudable safety plus for Jetta's class, so are the strong antilock four-wheel disc brakes. Generally a highly refined compact, Jetta sags somewhat because of its five-cylinder engine, which is gruff at idle in rapid acceleration, though it cruises quietly enough. Volkswagen's diesel engine clatters at idle and throbs during low-speed acceleration. Coarse-surface tire thrum is impressively low with 15- or 16-inch tires, but more prominent with bigger rubber. Some test Jettas have exhibited intrusive wind rush from front pillars and side windows at highway speed. Dashboards furnish clear gauges and handy, intuitive controls, but the cruise-control stalk can be confused with the turn-signal lever. Some testers have found the blue/purple instrument-panel lighting too soft for best nighttime legibility, too. Jetta's high-quality interior contains many soft-touch surfaces. If the pricey Package 2 option was installed, that Jetta features rich wood and leather trim. Adult-size front headroom is available, and only the tallest riders may notice intrusion from the sunroof's housing. Ultra-long seat tracks help provide NBA-worthy legroom. High-set, supportive seats include manual height adjustment. The GLI's contoured sport seats snug occupants during spirited cornering, without creating a confining sensation. Drivers also enjoy a standard manual tilt/telescoping steering wheel. Visibility astern is obscured by rear headrests. Rear head and leg space are sufficient for smaller adults, but six-footers will feel cramped. Though the backbench is impressively comfortable, it's best for two adults rather than three. Cargo space is generous, compared to cars of any size, enhanced by a large aperture, nonintrusive trunklid hinges, and 60/40-split folding rear seat. Good small-item storage helps, too.

Value for the Money
Usefully roomier than its predecessor, the current Jetta just about sets the class standard for overall refinement, interior decor, and build quality. Also roomy, Jettas contain many laudable safety features. The main drawbacks are unremarkable performance from the five-cylinder engine with automatic transmission, and VW's subpar customer-satisfaction scores for reliability and dealer service. Strong resale values, especially for certain versions, help keep used-car prices high.