2009 Volkswagen Jetta: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta gets an available diesel engine and a wagon body style. This compact car is Volkswagen's top seller. It comes as a 4-door sedan or 4-door wagon called the SportWagen. Both body styles are available in S, SE, and SEL trim levels. Most are powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine. New for 2009 is the diesel TDI. Available as a sedan or wagon, these Jettas get a 140-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. The diesel is emissions legal in all 50 states. The sporty GLI is a sedan only and comes with a turbocharged 200-hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. This engine is also standard on the SEL SportWagen. S and SE versions are available with a 5-speed manual transmission. SEL wagon, TDI, and GLI have a 6-speed manual. Standard on SEL sedan and available on all other Jettas is a 6-speed automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, and rear side airbags. GLI has a sport suspension and specific trim. A navigation system, sunroof, and iPod adapter are among the available options.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda 3.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus (coupe), Hyundai Elantra Touring, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. The Volkswagen Jetta also adds a diesel engine.