2011 Volkswagen Jetta: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is redesigned with freshened styling and larger exterior and interior dimensions. Volkswagen's best-selling car returns as a 4-door sedan. The SportWagen station wagon continues with the same basic design as the 2006-2010 Jetta. The 2011 sedan is more than 3.5 inches longer with 2.6 inches more rear legroom than the 2006-2010 Jetta. Trim levels include S, SE, SEL, and diesel-powered TDI. A sport-themed GLI is due in calendar 2011 as a 2012 model. Jetta S models have a 115-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The SE and SEL use a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 5-cylinder, which carries over from the previous-generation Jetta. The TDI has a 140-horsepower 2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder. The GLI will have a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the S, SE, and SEL. A 6-speed manual is standard on the TDI and GLI. Optional on the S, SE, and SEL is a 6-speed automatic. The GLI and TDI offer a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual that behaves much like an automatic. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Rear-side airbags are no longer available. A Convenience Package for the SE includes 16-inch alloy wheels, faux leather upholstery, satellite radio, wireless cell-phone link, and heated front seats. SEL models include keyless access/engine start, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a navigation system. A Sport Package for the SEL includes a sport suspension, sport seats, and specific trim. The navigation system is optional on the TDI and GLI. A sunroof is standard on the TDI and optional on the SEL and SE with Convenience Package. All GLI models have a performance suspension. The uplevel GLI Autobahn has faux leather upholstery and heated front seats.

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, Mazda 3, Nissan Versa, Volkswagen Golf, and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet Cruze and Scion xB.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Cruze, Chevrolet Volt, Hyundai Elantra, Nissan Leaf, and Volkswagen Jetta Sedan.