2008 Volkswagen Jetta: Road Test
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2008 Volkswagen Jetta ▼
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- MSRP: $16,990 -$25,375
- Invoice: $16,190 -$23,732
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Our road test for the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta includes a full evaluation of the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta help you decide if a 2008 Volkswagen Jetta is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 4.8 |
No 170-hp Jettas have been made available for us to test. GLI models are satisfyingly quick, particularly in the 45-65-mph range. A manual-transmission GLI did 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds in our test. Turbo lag is noticeable, particularly from a stop.
FUEL ECONOMY
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 6 | 6.6 |
In Consumer Guide testing, a manual-transmission GLI averaged 18.1 mpg, including gas-eating acceleration tests. Other turbocharged Jettas averaged a frugal 26.1 mpg with more highway miles. Five-cylinder Jettas use regular-grade gas. VW recommends premium for the turbo four.
RIDE QUALITY
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 5.1 |
GLI with its 17-inch tires feels jiggly, thumpy, and borderline harsh on all but smooth roads. The optional 18s won't help.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 8 | 5.9 |
A class standout. Corners with grippy assurance and modest body lean. GLI offsets its lumpy ride with terrific handling. Braking is strong and sure.
QUIETNESS
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 4.5 |
Some test cars exhibited intrusive wind rush from front pillars and side windows at highway speed. Tire thrum is present with the GLI's 17- and 18-inch tires but is never overly intrusive.
CONTROLS
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.7 |
Clear gauges complement mostly handy, intuitive controls, but some testers find the blue and purple dashboard lighting too soft for best nighttime legibility.
DETAILS
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.2 |
Among the best in class. Jetta's high-quality interior has many soft-touch surfaces and pleasing-looking plastics.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 7 | 5.7 |
Great legroom from ultralong seat tracks. Only the tallest riders may notice intrusion from the sunroof housing. GLI's contoured sport seats snug occupants in spirited cornering without a confining feel. Jetta's standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel aids driver comfort. Aft visibility is hindered a bit by the rear headrests.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.1 |
Sufficient headroom and legroom for smaller adults, but six-footers will feel cramped. The seat itself is very comfortable but best for two adults.
CARGO ROOM
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 4 | 4.9 |
Generous for a compact, enhanced by a large aperture, nonintrusive trunklid hinges, and standard 60/40 split folding rear seat. Good small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 5 | 6.2 |
Jetta sets the class standard for overall refinement and solidity. It's also roomy, comes with many laudable safety features, and boasts a high-quality interior. But expensive options quickly inflate delivered prices, and VW suffers subpar customer-satisfaction scores for reliability and dealer service.
Total Score
| GLI, manual | Class Average |
|---|---|
| 64 | 58.7 |
Total Score: 64
Scores for all Compact Cars
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