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2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Full Review
Date Published: 4/23/08
Also in the 2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Review:
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6.
Volkswagen Jetta Full Review
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2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Review
Volkswagen redesigns its best-selling car with fresh styling, larger dimensions, and new engines. The new Jetta, which VW calls a 2005 model, is sold alongside the previous-generation 1999-2005 version. The new model launches as a sedan; wagons are due to return in 2006. Compared to the previous sedan, the new car is 2.6 inches longer in wheelbase, 7 inches longer overall, and some 335 lb heavier.
Three versions are available at introduction. The Value Edition and base 2.5 use a 150-hp 5-cyl engine. The base TDI gets a 100-hp 4-cyl turbodiesel. Due in late 2006 for 2.0T GLI models is a 200-hp turbocharged gasoline 4-cyl. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. Optional for 2.5 is a 6-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Optional for TDI is a 6-speed sequential manual transmission (SMT), essentially a clutchless manual that can be set to shift like an automatic.
All Jettas come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and split folding rear seatbacks. An antiskid system is optional for Value Edition, standard for base-trim 2.5s and TDIs. Base models also come with heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Wood trim and leather upholstery are base options. The Value Edition has 15-inch wheels, others have 16s.
Three versions are available at introduction. The Value Edition and base 2.5 use a 150-hp 5-cyl engine. The base TDI gets a 100-hp 4-cyl turbodiesel. Due in late 2006 for 2.0T GLI models is a 200-hp turbocharged gasoline 4-cyl. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard. Optional for 2.5 is a 6-speed automatic with manual shift gate. Optional for TDI is a 6-speed sequential manual transmission (SMT), essentially a clutchless manual that can be set to shift like an automatic.
All Jettas come with antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, traction control, front side airbags, head-protecting curtain side airbags, and split folding rear seatbacks. An antiskid system is optional for Value Edition, standard for base-trim 2.5s and TDIs. Base models also come with heated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control. Wood trim and leather upholstery are base options. The Value Edition has 15-inch wheels, others have 16s.
News
Golf hatchbacks based on the new-Jetta design bow this fall, led by a sporty new 200-hp 2.0T GTI. Mainstream 2- and 4-drs are due by mid-2006, followed some months later by revived Jetta wagons as '07 models. Expected somewhere along the way is a sporty new Golf R32 with all-wheel drive, a 250-hp V6, and 6-speed manual and sequential-manual transmissions. A rumored R36 with a 280-hp 3.6 V6 may surface by 2008. In addition, a new Golf/Jetta-based 4-passenger convertible looks likely to reach the U.S. as an '07 entry. Previewed by the 2004 Concept C design, it features a power-folding hard top and, says one source, unusually lavish trim and equipment for a small VW. Target base price is rumored at around $30,000.
VW is also preparing its first sports car, a 2-seat mid-engine roadster to take on the BMW Z4, Mercedes SLK, Porsche Boxster--and sister division Audi's TT. Patterned on the recent Concept R, it should come in 2.0T and 3.6 V6 models. Regular and sequential 6-speed manual transmissions will be offered. Timing is unclear, but this one probably won't surface before 2008.
Also in the works, but not yet confirmed for America, is what some are calling the "CrossGolf." This would be an SUV-flavored compact wagon based on VW's European Golf Plus hatchback, basically a tall-body 4-dr Golf. The CrossGolf would be a sort of "baby Touareg" with standard AWD and elevated ride height, but limited off-road ability. One Detroit source suggests a 2007-model debut for this reply to the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and other small "soft roaders."
Last but not least, VW says it's considering a hybrid-power Jetta for possible U.S. sale in 2008 or thereabouts--emphasize "possible." A company spokesman says it will be a so-called "mild" hybrid, using its electric motor only to assist the gasoline engine.
VW is also preparing its first sports car, a 2-seat mid-engine roadster to take on the BMW Z4, Mercedes SLK, Porsche Boxster--and sister division Audi's TT. Patterned on the recent Concept R, it should come in 2.0T and 3.6 V6 models. Regular and sequential 6-speed manual transmissions will be offered. Timing is unclear, but this one probably won't surface before 2008.
Also in the works, but not yet confirmed for America, is what some are calling the "CrossGolf." This would be an SUV-flavored compact wagon based on VW's European Golf Plus hatchback, basically a tall-body 4-dr Golf. The CrossGolf would be a sort of "baby Touareg" with standard AWD and elevated ride height, but limited off-road ability. One Detroit source suggests a 2007-model debut for this reply to the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V and other small "soft roaders."
Last but not least, VW says it's considering a hybrid-power Jetta for possible U.S. sale in 2008 or thereabouts--emphasize "possible." A company spokesman says it will be a so-called "mild" hybrid, using its electric motor only to assist the gasoline engine.
2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Road Test
| Pros | Cons |
| Ride/handling | Acceleration (2.5 w/automatic) |
| Instruments/controls | |
| Passenger and cargo room | |
| Build quality | |
Consumer Guide® Road Test Ratings
Acceleration
Only base 2.5 with automatic transmission made available for testing so far. Slow-revving 5-cyl needs full throttle for best takeoffs, feels taxed up long grades. Test car did 9.0 sec 0-60 mph, which falls below midpack for the class. But most around-town and highway travel is stress-free, thanks in large measure to nicely matched 6-speed automatic transmission.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 4.1 |
Only base 2.5 with automatic transmission made available for testing so far. Slow-revving 5-cyl needs full throttle for best takeoffs, feels taxed up long grades. Test car did 9.0 sec 0-60 mph, which falls below midpack for the class. But most around-town and highway travel is stress-free, thanks in large measure to nicely matched 6-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel Economy
Test base 2.5 models with automatic transmission averaged 19.7 mpg in mostly city driving, 23.0-26.2 in mostly highway use. VW recommends regular-grade fuel for the 5-cyl.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 6.7 |
Test base 2.5 models with automatic transmission averaged 19.7 mpg in mostly city driving, 23.0-26.2 in mostly highway use. VW recommends regular-grade fuel for the 5-cyl.
Ride Quality
Top of the class. Minor float over big moguls at speed, but otherwise absorbent, quiet, composed, even on cratered pavement.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 4.6 |
Top of the class. Minor float over big moguls at speed, but otherwise absorbent, quiet, composed, even on cratered pavement.
Steering/Handling/Braking
A compact-class standout. Corners with grippy assurance, modest body lean. Responsive steering. Antiskid system a laudable safety plus for Jetta's class. Ditto the strong antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5.4 |
A compact-class standout. Corners with grippy assurance, modest body lean. Responsive steering. Antiskid system a laudable safety plus for Jetta's class. Ditto the strong antilock 4-wheel disc brakes.
Quietness
A very refined compact. Five-cyl gruff, especially at idle, but not disturbingly loud at full throttle, cruises quietly enough. Impressively low coarse-surface tire thrum. One test car exhibited intrusive wind rush from front pillars and side windows at highway speed.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 6 | 6 | 4 |
A very refined compact. Five-cyl gruff, especially at idle, but not disturbingly loud at full throttle, cruises quietly enough. Impressively low coarse-surface tire thrum. One test car exhibited intrusive wind rush from front pillars and side windows at highway speed.
Controls
Dashboard furnishes clear gauges. Handy, intuitive controls, but cruise-control stalk not easily understood and risks confusion with turn-signal stalk. Some testers found blue/purple instrument-panel lighting too soft. High-quality interior with many soft-touch surfaces; pricey Pkg. 2 includes rich wood and leather trim.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 8 | 9 | 5.5 |
Dashboard furnishes clear gauges. Handy, intuitive controls, but cruise-control stalk not easily understood and risks confusion with turn-signal stalk. Some testers found blue/purple instrument-panel lighting too soft. High-quality interior with many soft-touch surfaces; pricey Pkg. 2 includes rich wood and leather trim.
Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)
Adult-size head room, even with intrusion from sunroof. NBA-worthy leg room from ultralong seat tracks. Supportive seats include height adjustment. Drivers also enjoy standard manual tilt/telescope steering wheel. Aft visibility obscured by rear headrests.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 7 | 7 | 5 |
Adult-size head room, even with intrusion from sunroof. NBA-worthy leg room from ultralong seat tracks. Supportive seats include height adjustment. Drivers also enjoy standard manual tilt/telescope steering wheel. Aft visibility obscured by rear headrests.
Room/Comfort (rear)
Head and leg room sufficient for smaller adults, but 6-footers will feel cramped. Bench seat impressively comfortable, but best for two adults, not three.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 4 | 4 | 3.6 |
Head and leg room sufficient for smaller adults, but 6-footers will feel cramped. Bench seat impressively comfortable, but best for two adults, not three.
Cargo Room
Generous for any size car, and up 3 cu ft from past Jettas. Large aperture, nonintrusive trunklid hinges, 60/40 split folding rear seat enhance versatility. Good small-item storage.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 5 | 3.9 |
Generous for any size car, and up 3 cu ft from past Jettas. Large aperture, nonintrusive trunklid hinges, 60/40 split folding rear seat enhance versatility. Good small-item storage.
Value within Class
The new Jetta is usefully roomier than its predecessor and sets the class standard for refinement, ride, interior decor, and build quality. It also offers more standard features than before, but prices are higher as well. The main drawbacks are unremarkable performance from the 5-cyl with automatic transmission, VW's subpar customer-satisfaction scores for reliability and dealer service.
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 5 | 4 | 5.8 |
The new Jetta is usefully roomier than its predecessor and sets the class standard for refinement, ride, interior decor, and build quality. It also offers more standard features than before, but prices are higher as well. The main drawbacks are unremarkable performance from the 5-cyl with automatic transmission, VW's subpar customer-satisfaction scores for reliability and dealer service.
Total Score
| Base 2.5, auto. | Base 2.5 w/Pkg. 2, auto. | Class Average |
| 59 | 59 | 48.6 |
Scores for all Compact Cars
| Low Score | 34 | |
| Average Score | 48 | |
| High Score | 63 |
2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Prices & Equipment
Model Prices
Prices Updated: 08/05/2005
| Trim Name | Retail Price | Dealer Invoice | Destination Charge |
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| Value Edition 4-door sedan, manual | $17,900 | $17,049 | $615 |
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| Value Edition 4-door sedan, automatic | $18,975 | $18,122 | $615 |
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| Base 2.5 4-door sedan, manual | $20,390 | $18,779 | $615 |
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| Base 2.5 4-door sedan, automatic | $21,465 | $19,852 | $615 |
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| Base TDI 4-door sedan, manual | $21,385 | $20,122 | $615 |
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| Base TDI 4-door sedan, automatic | $22,460 | $21,195 | $615 |
Price note: 2.0T and GLI prices and equipment not available at time of publication.
Pricing Key: Retail prices listed with each report are set by the vehicle's
manufacturer. These figures appear on each car's federally mandated window sticker.
Most price lists also include dealer-invoice prices. Dealer-invoice prices are
what the dealer pays the manufacturer for the car and its factory-installed options.
The destination charge is not included in the suggested-retail or dealer-invoice price
and must be added to the cost of the vehicle. Car companies change prices frequently
throughout the year. If the prices published do not match those on the vehicle's
window sticker, the manufacturer has probably altered the price recently.
NA = price note available, NC = no charge.
Rebates and Incentives
There are no rebates or incentives at this time.
Consumer Guide®'s Rebates and Incentives represent a summary of national
manufacturer programs available. Regional restrictions may apply, and offerings
may vary by model. For a complete list of Rebate & Incentive programs click here.
Standard Equipment
Value Edition
Powertrain
2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission w/manual-shift capability, traction control, limited-slip differential.
Safety
Dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain side airbags, antilock 4-wheel disc brakes, emergency inside trunk release, daytime running lights.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Air conditioning, interior air filter, power steering, tilt/telescope steering wheel, cruise control, cloth upholstery, front bucket seats w/height and lumbar adjustment, center console, cupholders, split folding rear seat, heated power mirrors, power windows, power door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM/CD/MP3 player, digital clock, tachometer, outside-temperature indicator, variable-intermittent wipers, rear defogger, floormats.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
Theft-deterrent system, full-size spare tire, 195/65HR15 tires, wheel covers.
Base adds to Value Edition:
Powertrain
2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine (2.5) or 1.9-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder engine (TDI), 5-speed manual or 6-speed sequential-shift manual transmission (TDI).
Safety
Brake assist, antiskid system.
Comfort and Convenience Features
Dual-zone automatic climate controls, vinyl upholstery, heated front seats, split folding rear seat w/trunk pass-through, AM/FM radio w/in-dash 6-disc CD/MP3 changer, trip computer, compass, automatic day/night rearview mirror, rain-sensing wipers w/heated washers, automatic headlights.
Appearance and Miscellaneous
205/55HR16 tires.
Optional Equipment
Major Packages |
Retail Price |
Invoice Price |
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Pkg. 1
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Base
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$1,960
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$1,790
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Power sunroof, upgraded sound system, alloy wheels w/wheel locks.
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Pkg. 2
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Base
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$4,660
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$4,257
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Pkg. 1 plus leather upholstery, 12-way power front seats w/power lumbar adjustment, driver-seat memory, leather-wrapped steering-wheel w/radio controls, wood interior trim, satellite radio, universal garage-door opener, rear sunshade.
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Safety |
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Antiskid system
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Value Edition
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$280
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$247
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Includes brake assist.
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Comfort and Convenience Features |
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Satellite radio
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Base
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$375
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$331
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2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Specs & Safety
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | Volkswagen Jetta 4-door sedan |
| Wheelbase, in. | 101.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 179.3 |
| Overall Width, in. | 69.3 |
| Overall Height, in. | 57.5 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3230 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 16.0 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 14.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 38.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.2 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.2 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 35.4 |
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.
Engines
| dohc I5 | Turbodiesel sohc I4 | |
| Size, liters/cu. in. | 2.5 /151 | 1.9 /116 |
| Horsepower @ rpm. | 150 @ 5000 | 100 @ 4000 |
| Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. | 170 @ 3750 | 177 @ 1800 |
| Availability | Standard | Standard |
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EPA City / highway mpg
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| 5-speed manual | 22/30 | NA/NA |
| 6-speed automatic | 22/30 | --/-- |
| 6-speed automated manual | --/-- | NA/NA |
Engine Key: l/cu in. = liters/cubic inches; ohv = overhead valve; ohc = overhead camshaft;
dohc = dual overhead camshaft; I = inline cylinders; H = horizonally opposed cylinders;
V = cylinders in a V configuration; W = cylinders in a W configuration; rpm = revolutions
per minute; CVT = continuously variable (automatic) transmission; NA = not available; "--"
= measurement does not exist.
Safety Features
Antilock Brakes
Traction Control
Antiskid System |
Front Side Airbags
Curtain Side Airbags
Rear Side Airbags |
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | Volkswagen Jetta 4-door sedan |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's
worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to
rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury:
5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Side-impact
crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%;
1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover
when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%;
2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Manufacturer's Warranty
| Class | Years/Miles | Comments |
| Powertrain | 6/60,000 | -- |
| Bumper-to-bumper | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Corrosion | 12/unlimited | -- |
| Free roadside assistance | 4/50,000 | -- |
| Free scheduled maintenance | 4/50,000 | Phaeton only. |
Manufacturers may periodically offer additional coverage as a purchase incentive.
There offers are not reflected on this chart. The federal government requires two
other warranties. The Exhaust Emission Warranty covers corrosion-related parts for
2 years/24,000 miles, plus 8 years/80,000 miles on the catalytic converter and any
on-board diagnostic device. The Passenger Restraint Warranty covers seat belts
and airbags for 5 years/50,000 miles.
Built in:
Mexico
Drivewheels:
front-wheel drive
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Tester's Comments
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Major Options: Pkg 1 (Sunroof, 16-inch Alloy Wheels, Premium SOund System), 6-speed Tiptronic(R)Automatic Transmission Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 23.46 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Chuck Giametta This seems a strong nominee for 2006 BB or Rec. Proponents must come to terms with the pricing, however. Base prices are outstanding, given the level of equipment and character of the design and engineering. But with Pkg 2 and 6AT, a Base is indeed around $27,000. That's V6 Accord, Camry, even Sonata territory. Kirk Bell At $24K for our tester, I think I'd consider an Accord, Camry or Mazda6. Still, this is a very nice car. I'm interested to test the V6 but afraid of its price. Mark Bilek Make no mistake the new Jetta is a wonderful car, but VW needs a marketplace reality check. $24,000? I am sorry, but a similarly equipped Corolla can be had for under $18,000 and a Kia Spectra for $16,000. I'd like to see VW put a more refined engine under the hood, take about $4,000 off the sticker price, and then you'd see it in my driveway. |
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Major Options: Package 2 (Power Sunroof, Upgraded Sound System, Alloy Wheels w/Wheel Locks, Leather Upholstery, 12-Way Power Front Seats w/Power Lumbar Adjustment, Driver-Seat Memory, Leather-Wrapped Steering-Wheel w/Radio Controls, Wood Interior Trim, Satellite Radio, Universal Garage-Door Opener, Rear Sunshade), 6-Speed Automatic Tiptronic Transmission Consumer Guide® Fuel Economy: 23.05 mpg (what's this?) Problems During Test: None From The Back Seat Rick Cotta Despite advances in power, room, and control placement, I was a bit disappointed with this car. It's not the tidy, frisky, quality-built bargain I've long associated with the model name. It's really more of a family sedan that's priced up there with higher-powered V6 Japanese rivals. The best "Jetta" is now a Mazda 3. |
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Also in the 2005.5 Volkswagen Jetta Review:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Volkswagen Jetta Full Review
7.
8.
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