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Jetta/Bora/Vento

Short test: 2012 VW Jetta GLI

Vehicle: 2012 VW Jetta GLI
Price as tested: CDN$27475

When the Mk6 Jetta came out last year, many of us have considered it a regressive instead of a progressive move. Cheap interior, rear drum brakes with rear beam suspension. VW has promised us a GLI, which basically is a sporty version of Jetta. The GLI received a 200hp 2.0 liter turbocharged engine with direct fuel injection, multi-link rear suspension and interior materials which are up to standard of what VW used to known for.

The multi-link rear suspension really have paid dividend when it comes to dynamic abilities. GLI feels every bit as a sports sedan as GTI as a hot hatch. The turn-in is sharp and crisp, with minimal understeer and body rolls. What standard Jetta lacks, in terms of driving sophiscation, GLI brings back aplentry. When pushed GLI on track or open road, it provides plenty of driving pleasure as what VW stands for. An affordable German car which provides as much driving fun as many of its more expensive counterparts.

Along with 200hp, 207 lb/ft mated with astounishing 6-speed DSG provides wonderful piece of engineering. This 2.0T has been judged as the world’s best 4-cylinder turbocharged engine right from day one. It worths every pennies, with plenty of low-end torque without any sorts of turbo lag. The turbo spools up quickly and efficiently without any hestiation. As for its DSG, try find any gearbox which up and downshift as quickly and efficiently, at any price range.

While there are still some cheap pieces in minor area. VW finally gives back what it has been known for in years, classy interior materials. The top of the dashboard finally wraps up with soft-touch plastic that is worthy of the VW emblem. The leather sports seats provide plenty of side, back and shoulder support without feeling confining. Unfortunately, instrusive trunk hinges remain at the back of the Jetta.

The GLI, is indeed, a Jetta for we driving enthuisasts instead of 99.9% of car buying population. That’s because it finally received what we demand in the first place. VW is, first and foremost, a progressive company. We were disappointed with their regressive move on “lowest common denominator” Jetta. But we are very delightful on the move with this Jetta GLI.

Likes:
Interior improvement
2.0T/DSG combo
Sports seats
Handling

Dislikes:
Instrusive trunk hinges
Undefended ESP

Competitions:
Acura TSX
BMW 323i
Hyundai Sonata 2.0T
Kia Optima 2.0T

Long-term wrap-up: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5

Vehicle: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5 Comfortline with 6-speed Tiptronic, Multimedia Pkg, power glass moonroof and Cornsilk trim
Price as tested: CDN$26640
Mileage since picked up: 10000km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

If we have to pick a car which considered as the most controversial in 2011, the 6th generation Jetta has to be on the top of the list. The main reason is how Americanized this generation of Jetta in relative to all of its predecessors. Yes, its no longer a “Golf with a trunk” simply because it no longer sharing the same floorpan. But mostly of what VW has done beneath the skin.

As much as a VW faithful, as well as an ex-owner of a 1999 4th generation Jetta. I wasn’t too fond of 6th generation when it first came out. That’s mainly due to the fact that VW has sharpened the pencil a bit too much in flavor of going mainstream. The regressive moves from rear beam suspension to hard plastic dashboard have made VW community completely insane. However, its sales volume has suggested otherwise. All these changes have put Jetta into the mainstay instead of being a niche. As we are speaking, VW just can’t produce enough Jetta for the audience. Latest news is that the enthuisast-driven GLI has to delay due to huge demand for garden-variety Jettas. It is one of the hottest cars in compact class right now, alongside the new Elantra and Focus.

In terms of reliability, we are very surprise during the long-term test. It doesn’t have any cracks and rattles despite of all the cost-cutting measures VW have put through the whole car. In fact, it feels more solidly built than all the previous long-term Jettas have gone before. That’s a huge surprise given the lack of detailing and material quality. Improving quality and reliability aside, VW has promised to improved the shortcomings which journalists have complained about the current car during its mid lifecycle updates.

That begs the question. Would I recommend the latest generation of Jetta to anybody else?

If it equipped with VW’s delightful 140hp 2.0TDI, that is the sublime combination which I would get with DSG. If you are intended to go with its gasoline counterparts, there are much better alternatives at its price range. The Golf, which sold alongisde Jetta in the same showroom, offer far superior build and material quality with the practicality of a hatchback or wagon to boot.

The reason why we are recommending the wonderful 140hp 2.0TDI instead of 170hp 2.5 liter is for one major reason. On the one hand, the 2.0TDI + DSG combo is able to gain exceptional fuel economy without losing the refinement of gasoline counterparts. The TDI gets an average of 6L/100km, which is nothing short of amusing consider Jetta’s weight. Unfortunately, 2.5 liter 5-cylinder on our long-termer had 9L/100km. That’s very disappointing when its time to compare to many of its gasoline peers. And please don’t let us start on that ancient 2.0 liter 4-cylinder 115hp engine in the base Jetta. This engine is slated for a complete phase out after serving VW family for more than two decades. We are anticipating to see whether the incoming base motor for VW will be a competitive one, when it comes to combining performance with economy.

The bottom line. The execution of number 6 Jetta has surpassed our expectation over the period of time. Will the “Tennesse Waltz” between VW work with the North-American Passat?? We will have a full-blown review and, hopefully, a long-termer in the near future. :)

Likes:
Progressive styling
Friendly ergonomics
Improved passenger + luggage space
Lowered price

Dislikes:
Fuel economy
Interior plastic
Trunk hinges

Competitions:
Chevrolet Cruze
Honda Civic
Toyota Corolla
Mazda3
Ford Focus

Long-term update: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5

Vehicle: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5 Comfortline with 6-speed Tiptronic, Multimedia Pkg, power glass moonroof and Cornsilk trim
Price as tested: CDN$26640
Mileage since picked up: 6000km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

This 170hp 2.5 liter straight-5 originated from previous iteration of Jetta. This powertrain began life in 2005 Jetta. When it first introduced, it was a mix review. While many love its wide torque curve, there are many who aren’t fond of its engine note. There have been many straight-5 came before this unit, namely Audi which innovated this quirky and unique cylinder firing configuration back in the old days. There had been many followers from Acura Vigor to Volvo 850. VW has refined the I-5 unit to the point, which have much more pleasant engine note than it first introduced, especially when we pushed through the rev range. The 6-speed Tiptronic has matched its powerband relatively well. Its fuel economy remains underwhelming, which we have an average of 8.9 liters per 100km. That is below class standard. That set, the engine of choice remains VW’s delightful 140hp 2.0TDI with DSG.

On our next update, we will wrap things up. As well as answer one important question. Does the mainstreaming of Jetta bite VW in their own ass with all those cost-cutting, or plain just make it more competitive in entry-level segment?

Long-term update: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5

Vehicle: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5 Comfortline with 6-speed Tiptronic, Multimedia Pkg, power glass moonroof and Cornsilk trim
Price as tested: CDN$26640
Mileage since picked up: 2000km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

Unlike the previous Jetta, the 6th generation is riding on a completely new platform. What this new platform really improved over its predecessors is the much-needed rear legroom and luggage space. Jetta used to be a compact sedan with compact interior dimensions. The new Jetta finally have the space to compete with its intended competitions.

Another aspect which Jetta appeals to more mainstream buyers is the price. When a Mk6 Jetta comparably equipped, it is $2500 cheaper than a Mk5 Jetta. That makes the new Jetta’s price is on par with likes of Mazda3, Civic and Corolla. Leaving Golf as the model of choice for 2% of VW enthuisasts, while rest of the 98% common denominators would be attracted by Jetta’s improved luggage and rear seat space.

On our next update. We will tell you how new Jetta fares when it comes to performance.

Long-term introduction: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5

Vehicle: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5 Comfortline with 6-speed Tiptronic, Multimedia Pkg, power glass moonroof and Cornsilk trim
Price as tested: CDN$26640
Mileage since picked up: 30km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

VW has a lot to ride on the new Jetta. Its the first Jetta which no longer shares the platform with its hatchback silibing, VW’s iconic Golf. This independent platform has created improved interior space cater to its new audience, those who are looking for Teutonic driving experience without paying the premium. The front discs with rear drum brakes, as well as the change from rear indepedent to torsion beam suspension are a change from a more sophiscated German compact sedan into the mainstay compact segment. One that is currently dominated by the likes of Mazda3 and Honda Civic. But does the new Jetta have enough merits? Whether VW has finally addressed its predecessor’s reliability issue? Have the transformation from a niche premium compact into a mainstream compact lost any of its uniqueness? Those are all the questions we are quest to find out in the next few months.

Short test: 2011 VW Jetta 2.0 and TDI

Vehicle(s): 2011 VW Jetta 2.0 Trendline + with 6-speed Tiptronic and Cold Weather Pkg
2011 VW Jetta 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG
Price as tested: CDN$20315 (2.0) CDN$29420 (TDI)

It was quite a shock when we heard VW decided to put the ancient 2.0 liter motor back into Jetta, which wasn’t available on previous generation. Its also the first time ever that Jetta has a lower starting price than Golf. With the improved intake manifold, this 115hp ancient motor has done acceptably given its low admission price. It should serve well as a replacement to the Golf City and Jetta City, which were rebodied Mk4 series for value-driven Canadian market. 6-speed Tiptronic is another reason why it moves surprisingly well, given its low pricepoint for Trendline.

The real deal has to be VW’s fragile 2.0TDI. While its 140hp looks only acceptable, its the 236 lb/ft of torque that is the real head-turner. When matched with VW’s nifty 6-speed DSG, we are able to achieve 5 liters per 100km. That is nothing short of amazing given the 1456kg curb weight of the new Jetta. The driving feel is far more responsive than the numbers suggested. Both the refinement and flexability are far superior than both 2.0 I-4and 2.5 I-5. In short, this is the engine of choice in the Jetta range.

Dynamically speaking, new Jetta is another surprise since it has changed back from rear indepednent to simpler beam axle suspension. The result is a compact car that handles well Germanic flair even in base trim. The electric steering feels sharp and precise, while the amount of body rolls and understeer are all within acceptable limits.

The biggest improvements to new Jetta have to be its rear legroom and cargo space. Despite of the cheapening instrusive hinges, there are plenty of luggage space with and without rear seats fold down. As for the rear legroom, its far improved over the last 4 generations of Jetta combined. Even though we lamented the lack of details and proper materials in new Jetta’s interior execution, its improved space certainly would appeal to the target audience VW intended to attract. Given the initial strong start to Mk6′s sales, it has proved VW’s move to more mainstream audience over niche enthuisast are runaway succeed. The lower price point, larger interior space and more mainstream appearance are able to attract 98% of general public over 2% of driving enthuisasts. While the latter would likely go for Golf hatchback and wagon, its the “lowest common denomiator” audience, who have been buying Civic and Corolla for ages, which would take VW to the world’s largest carmaker in 2015.

When new Jetta first came out, I wasn’t fond of its bland character and cheapening materials. After driven the TDI Highline for a couple of hours, I started to appreciate what VW has to offer. It has plenty of space, a superb diesel powertrain, nice ergonomics and comfortable ride. As for the entry-level 2.0 Trendline, I found it more civilized than what I expect from an entry-level car. Although its inexpensive, its certainly feel less tortune box and far classier than expected. As for those of us who have grown up with Mk4 Jetta, its the incoming 2.0T GLI which will be the enthuisast’s choice in the ever growing Jetta family.

Likes:
Progressive styling
Efficiency and performance (TDI)
Nice handling and ride comfort
Improved interior and cargo space
Attractive pricepoint to German car ownership experience

Dislikes:
Bland character
Engine noise and refinement (2.0)
Subpar interior materials
Instrusive trunk hinges

2011 VW Jetta 2.5

Vehicle: 2011 VW Jetta 2.5 Sportline
Price as tested: CDN$23300

Performance: Jetta used to be dubbed as “Golf with a trunk”. Starting from 2011, Jetta is no longer share its platform with its Golf silibing. Just when Golf 6 already entered the mid-phase of its lifespin, VW decided to introduce Jetta 6 based on a completely independent chassis.

The initial launch of the new Jetta 6 offers 3 different engine choices. Its quite amazing VW is still able to find the ancient 2.slow (as VDubbers would love to call) as 2011 Jetta’s base engine, which has nothing to write home about when it comes to efficiency and refinement. The 140hp 2.0TDI and 200hp 2.0T will be available in near future, as diesel has accounted for half of Jetta’s sales volume. The subject of our tester comes with an in-line 5-cylinder 2.5 liter DOHC 20-valve. This engine is good for 170hp and 177 lb/ft of torque. When mated with the optional 6-speed Tiptronic gearbox, this engine is quite willing and responsive when pushed. VW has refined some of the engine note of this in-line 5. When we first drove Golf and Jetta 5 with this powertrain, we found the engine note rather interesting or weird depending on times. Given this powertrain already used as the base point for TT-RS’s 2.5 liter turbo as a return to Audi’s legendary I-5 turbo tradition, its durability and longevity have nothing to worry about. On the other hand, the 6-speed Tiptronic provides decently low gear ratio for peppy launch while leaving 5th and 6th tall enough for comfortable highway cruising. What we found unfortunate is the lack of a proper paddle shifters on the steering wheel. That makes the manumatic mode rather redundant as driver has to use the shifter every time during downshifting.

Handling: Its really hard to fault VW on engineered an excellent chassis, even for a family car like the Jetta. The whole foundation is rigid and solid without any rattles. Then add a nicely calibrated sports suspension on our tester, the Jetta handles nicely given its family car status. The sports suspension is comfortably compliant when riding through patholes and expansion joints. Even if its firmer than the standard suspension, it doesn’t feel any impact harshness when driven through washboard pavements. On the other hand, its firm enough to control body rolls and understeer. While one would expect Jetta to have terminal understeer as all family car does, it all does it in composed manners. The standard ESC has managed its instrusivness relatively well without being step-in abruptly. Its electric power steering provides decent enough feel and feedback, which is precise and responsive enough even for spirited drives.

Brakes: With standard front discs/rear drums and ABS, the new Jetta has decent enough braking performance. The stopping distance is short while pedal feels solid and linear. It doesn’t exhibit any kinds of fades even after a couple of harsh stops. ABS doesn’t step in unnecessarily is an added bonus.

Interior: When VW launched the Mk4 Jetta back in 1999, its a vehicle that singlehandly changed how the industry thinks about nice interior in a small affordable family car. With the introduction of the latest Mk6 Jetta, VW has taken a huge step backward in that one single area.

In terms of ergonomics, VW has done a marvelous job on placing the touch-screen stereo on top of the HVAC. However, the touch-screen variety isn’t exactly initutive when it comes to changing radio channels. On the other hand, the instrumentation gauges are typical VW analog. All the power window, mirror and lock switches are logically placed. That’s about all good things.

Now here are the bad news. Remember the day when Jetta has known for soft-touch plastic materials and class-leading fit-and-finish. Unfortunately, those days are long gone. :( The new Jetta has used cheap, hard and rotten plastic materials on top of the dashboard to door panels. It used to have soft-padding inside the door slot for keeping miscellaneous floating around, those are shiny plastic with their latest iteration. The soft knobs for HVAC used to have tactical and solid feel, very Teutonic. The new switchgears feel loose and cheap when tossing them around. Its not exactly all bad things, though. The leatherette material is good enough to trick many in the unknown as *real* leather hides.

In the past, Jetta’s rear passenger compartment is known for being cramped. With the extra 7.2 inches added to the new platform, Jetta finally received the rear legroom that it desperately needed to compete in this tough segment.

Remember a decade ago when Jetta used to be the only compact family sedan comes with uninstrusive trunk hinges. Not anymore, Jetta 6 comes with instrusive trunk hinges which crash into any eggs you put on top of the trunk. As for the trunk itself, its both spacious with nicely cut side sills and low liftover. Unfortunately, some of the trunk lining have gone amiss thanks to VW’s latest corner cutting effort. What a pity. :(

Conclusion: VW certainly have an ambition plan to overtake Toyota as the world’s largest auto manfacturer. The latest Jetta definitely show how much confidence they are going to reach that lofty goal in a few short years. Its not only Jetta is no longer “Golf with a trunk”. It has enough merits to run with some of the top dogs in compact segment, say the likes of Mazda3 and Honda Civic. Its low price point has driven by many of its controversial corner cutting, however, have left me cold.

Which leave us to one final question. The Jetta 6 is so bland, is only Katy Perry enough to save its image?

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2011 VW Jetta 2.5
=====================================
Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 3/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5

Long-term wrap up: 2009 VW Jetta TDI Wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 19000km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

Diesel used to stand for noisy, rough and isn’t particularly refined. Not anymore. As proven by our long-term Jetta TDI wagon, its more torquery than the equivalent 2.0T silibing with significant advantage when it comes to fuel economy. Our test average of 6 liters per 100km has proven its worth. The 6-speed Direct Shift Gearbox has mated with the TDI as a perfect partner. Not only does it shifts quicker than any race driver, its also remarkably efficient. The paddle shifters on the steering wheel have added to the fun of using the maximum torque and efficiency of this 140hp 2.0TDI.

Jetta wagon’s practicality starts with a large cargo space with squared cut-off for ease of loading. It also has the only pet peeve we have through the entire long-term test. That’s the privacy cover doesn’t have anywhere to store when its time to fold down the rear seats.

The Jetta wagon, which has changed to Golf wagon, is the perfect example of what makes a wagon a true “Sport Utility Vehicle”. Its sporty flair with plenty of utility wrap in a stylish Teutonic package.

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI Wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 15200km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

On our last update, we were quest to find out whether TDI makes any difference when it comes to cold weather fuel economy. The result is simply a delightful surprise, as it only makes a slight difference when it comes to fuel consumption. There is only less than 1 liter difference per 100km between the cold and warm weather. While the engine takes longer to reach its ambient tempeature, which means harsher to the engine load because of the cold starting. TDI hangs on itself beautifully through both fall and winter.

On our final update, we will wrap up this fuel miser.

Follow-up test: 2010 VW Jetta Wolfsberg

Vehicle: 2010 VW Jetta Wolfsberg edition with 6-speed DSG and rear side airbags
Price as tested: CDN$27275

When VW redesigned the Golf for 2010, its platform stablemate Jetta continues to sail with the outgoing Mk5 platform. Jetta’s latest Wolfsberg is the latest addition to VW’s best-selling car in North America.

Back in 2008, we gave Jetta GLI “Best Affordable Performance” title. The same lovable traits apply equally to the Jetta Wolfsberg. Precise handling, fun-to-drive, superb ride quality and lovely interior.

For less than 30 grand, there are many sedans as fun-to-drive as a Jetta Wolfsberg with 200hp 2.0T FSI engine. This award-winning engine provides plenty of power without the penalty when it comes to fuel economy. It has the power of a V6 but use fuel like a standard 4-cylinder. The credit has to go to its advanced direct fuel injection (FSI) technology. The DSG’s quick and efficient shifting character is another credit. On “D”, it already provided quick shifting. Put it into “S”, it shifts quicker than anyone with a clutch. All have done beautifully with the typical mechanical trait of German engineering.

In terms of driving dynamics, Jetta Wolfsberg exceeds. The steering is razor-sharp with excellent feedback. Both body rolls and understeer are well-tempted. Sports suspension is firm yet supple, without feeling harsh.

Interior continues VW’s trend on put together some of the best interiors in the business. Effective auto climate control, superb leather seats and use of soft-touch plastic materials.

When you consider Jetta Wolfsberg loaded at 28 grand, its an irresistible package that is different to overlook. It comes all the merits of German engineering’s finest, with significiant price advantage over any German sports sedans available on the market.

Likes:
Performance
Handling and ride
Price/value

Dislikes:
Revised version coming soon
Generic styling (for a VW)

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI Wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 12800km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

The reason why many consumers dismissed the purchase of diesel was its engine cluttering during cold weather start-up. With the new clean diesel technology in the latest 2.0TDI, we have proven its as quiet and refined as many gasoline engine counterparts. Its only when one approaches the engine bay before noticing the slight cluttering sound. The latest clean diesel engine is also easy to start with a twist of a key. No fuss. No drama. The use of engine oil to cool down the turbo part of the diesel engine means it no longer needs any engine cool down before shut off the engine. As expect from cold winter weather, one would expect gas mileage would get worse due to longer engine warming period. Will the astounishing fuel economy got affected by the cold weather? We will find out after this cold and harsh Canadian winter.

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI Wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 8600km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

As you have seen in our earlier review, VW Canada has revised the Jetta wagon to Golf wagon for 2010. The most significant change to the overall package is the interior. The chassis has been stiffened and suspension reclibrated for better ride comfort while yielding for sharper driving dynamics. Best of all, even the base Trendline can be opt with ESP. On a contrary, VWoA will keep the Jetta wagon through the revision. As American have a better name recognition with the Jetta nameplate than Golf nameplate. Due to the Jetta is a sedan and Golf is a hatchback.

After 2 generations of Jetta wagon in Canadian market, will the change to Golf wagon a change for the better or worse. Time will tell. :)

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 2500km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

What makes the Jetta wagon so appealing is the amount of cargo space. It all begins with a nice flat floor for easy loading, then combined with a build-in ski pass through and 40/60 split fold-down rear seats. It makes for a very versatile and practical package. In the Jetta sedan, it got 16 cubin feet of cargo space. However, in the Jetta wagon. Its double the cargo volume to 32.8 cubin feet of cargo space. Both figures are with the seats in upright position. If you factor in the nicer looking rear of a wagon over the rather generic looks of sedan, it makes the wagon a default especially its only $800 more than equaivalent Jetta sedan.

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 1500km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

Ever since we picked up our long-term Jetta, there is one thing that has become loud and clear. The 5th generation’s build quality and workmanship are much improved over its 4th generation predecessor. In our previous Mk4 Jetta, there were lots of dash rattles and cracks, upon the entire length of ownership. In our Mk5 Jetta long-termer, the interior screws up solidty without any rattles and groans that have become so notoriously known on previous Jettas. We are also enjoying the exceptional use of dash materials in the cabin. With all those soft-touch plastic and high-quality leather materials, you would have thought you are in an Audi instead of a VW.

On our next update, we will tell you whether its worth to upgrade your Jetta purchase from a traditional sedan to a wagon.

Long-term update: 2009 VW Jetta TDI wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 500km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

VW just announced a voluntary recall for all cars equipped with DSG transmission. Ever since we picked up our long-term Jetta wagon TDI with this gearbox, we haven’t experienced any problem with engine stalling, nor gearbox went into “natural” and flashing warning lamps on the dashboard.

In the meantime, we are enjoying the crisp and fast shift of the Direct Shift Gearbox in our Jetta. We will be keeping everyone posted on how the gearbox turns on and whether our example is qualified for the voluntary recall on our future updates.

Long-term introduction: 2009 VW Jetta TDI wagon

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon 2.0TDI Highline with 6-speed DSG, rear side airbags, ESP and Sirius Satelite radio
Price as tested: CDN$33035
Mileage since picked up: 50km
Regular maintenance: 0
Unscheduled repairs: 0

Since VW introduced the Jetta wagon TDI, we have been impressed with its combination of performance, efficiency, practicality and driving experience. What makes the Jetta wagon stands apart from Jetta sedan is the production origin. Instead of bringing it in from Mexico, the Jetta wagon comes from Germany. Our initial impression is this wagon is better made than equivalent sedan, with versatility to boot. Over the next year, we will put it through a long-term test to measure its quality, reliability and whether its fuel economy would held up in the long-run. In the meantime, we will also compare to soon-to-be-introduced facelifted 2010 Mk6 Golf sportswagon and A3 2.0TDI in the future updates.

Follow-up test: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon TDI

Vehicle: 2009 VW Jetta Wagon TDI Comfortline with 6-speed DSG, Panorama sunroof and ESP
Price as tested: CDN$33265

If you are in search for the best combination of fuel efficiency, green technology without losing the fun of driving a car. Clean diesel is the best solution to the answer. While hybrids simply lack the drivability and cost of replacing those aging batteries are unimaginable. Diesel will provide a much more long-lasting driving experience with reliability to boot.

In real estate world, location is what it matters. As for the case of diesel engine, efficiency and fuel economy are what make them so impressive.

The best example of buying a clean diesel that everyone can afford is VW, or else, you have to pay twice more to buy a Mercedes Bluetec. Our Jetta wagon comes with the new 2.0 liter TDI with 140hp. The most impressive fact is this VW has 236 lb/ft arriving as low as 1750rpm. That means it combines the fuel efficiency of a 4-cylinder with the torque of an equivalent V6. Our test average of 6 liters per 100km is nothing short of amazing consider Jetta wagon weighting in at 1490kg. Another nifty technology that brings such a great fuel economy is the DSG. We have been very impressive with this dual clutch technology when it comes to providing fastest shifting gearbox in the entire world. What make us more impressive is it generates such an astounishing fuel economy with TDI without losing its performance edge. The shifts are quick, smooth and abrupt without a lose of hestiation. The level of refinement is world-class either. You won’t be able to detect this is a diesel powertrain until you are up close besides the hood, its even quieter inside the vehicle.

As for the rest of the car, its typical VW execution. That means it handles relatively well. Interior materials and fit-and-finish are world-class. The Panoramic sunroof has opened the rather drab black on black interior on our tester.

With the gas prices on the paramount, the demand for this VW wagon will certainly outstrip of the supply simply because of its overall package. Its not only sporty to drive, its extremely versatile and well-finished. Best of all, its attractively priced and running cost is reasonable. VW should renamed it a Jetta “Sport Utility Vehicle” instead of a Jetta “Wagon”. :D

2009 VW Jetta Wagon

Vehicle: 2009 Jetta Wagon Trendline with ESP and 6-speed Tiptronic
Price as tested: CDN$26660

Performance: The Jetta wagon is currently available with one engine only. Its the upgraded version of the 2.5 liter in-line 5-cylinder 20-valve we have tested in both Jetta sedan and Rabbit before. With 170 hp and 177 lb/ft of torque, its more than aplentry to move this compact wagon. With the latest upgrade over the outgoing 150hp version, the engine note sounds more pleasing and less weird. For most consumers, this is an important consideration because not many have get used to odd cylinder configuration. The same goes to its rather weird engine note. With 177 lb/ft of torque available at 4250 rpm, it has lots of get-up-and-go bottom end of daily traffic light acceleration. 170hp certainly wouldn’t put driver ashamed with it comes to top end acceleration. Our tester comes with the 6-speed Tiptronic manumatic gearbox. Although the shifts are slow, even with the fuzzy logic program adapts to each driver’s needs. The whole gearbox has low enough gear ratio for low-end acceleration and high enough ratio for comfortable highway cruising, while enough gears in the middle for mid-range highway merging speed. If you are looking for more performance-oriented and economy-oriented powertrains in this wagon, you should wait for the 200hp 2.0T or 2.0 TDI coming on the horizon.

Handling: As we have experienced, Mk5 chassis has served different cars with different purposes exceptionally well. GTI for hot hatch, Rabbit for an affordable hatchback while Jetta as a family sedan. With this latest wagon, Mk5 chassis continues to impress with its level of composure. You won’t feel any of the extra size with the additional cargo space at the back of this Jetta. It handles as well as any Jetta we have driven in the past. The electric power steering provides decent enough feedback and precision, even if the low speed feels featherweight. Its ESP only kicks in until the driver reaches the outer end of the limits. That’s a godsent for driving enthuisats. The suspension is compliant with a sense of Germanic suppleness dialed in the whole process. Which means it doesn’t ride as softly as some of its rivals, while absorbing patholes and roughness with ease. There is some safe understeer and body rolls. However, those are more than acceptable consider Jetta wagon’s status of life as a comfortable, affordable wagon.

Brakes: With 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, this little wagon’s stopping power is as good as any VWs we have tested before. The stopping distance is short while fade is almost non-existence even after a couple of hard stops.

Interior: Fold down the 60/40 split fold down rear seats, the Jetta wagon has 66.9 cubin feet of cargo space. The add bonus is there are plenty of cubbyholes to storage basically everything. The hatch is high enough in order not to hit your head. On the other hand, cargo liftover is low and wide enough to slide any cargos with ease. Best of all, VW’s attention-to-details with quality carpeting in the hatch adds a touch of class to the usual messy cargo area.

The rest of the interior is typical VW fanfare. That means excellent use of materials and fit-and-finish. The semi auto climate control is effective and efficient. Everything else are placed ergonomically, especially stereo above the climate control. The cloth seats on our tester are nicely foamed with decent side and thigh support.

As with all the Mk5 platform, its single biggest improvement has to be its rear seat legroom.

Conclusion: This new Jetta wagon could well be the best definition of what an affordable “sport utility vehicle” stands for. Its performance and handling are fairly sporty, while its amount of cargo space match or beaten many of those compact utes. That’s despite our test average fuel economy is a slightly disappointed 9L/100km, it remains a much better proportioned than any SUV consider the current gas prices.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2009 VW Jetta Wagon
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4.5/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 5/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 5/5
Value-for-money: 5/5

Overall rating: 4.25/5

2007 VW Rabbit 2.5/Jetta GLI

Vehicle(s): 2007 VW Rabbit 2.5 5-doors with heated seats, 16″ alloy wheel package, sunroof package and ESP
2007 VW Jetta GLI with DSG
Price as tested: CDN$23600 (Rabbit) Est. $34500 (GLI)

Performance: The Rabbit is powered by the DOHC 2.5L straight-5 that’s good for 150hp and 170 lb/ft of torque. This is an engine that replaced the aging 2.0L 8-valver 115hp previously standard in base Golf. With 170 lb/ft of torque available as low as 3750 rpm, there are lots to go in the bottom end. However, it starts to run out of breath above 5000 rpm. While most daily drivers will love the strong bottom end of this straight-5, not many will love its noise generated while pushing above the rev range. Its engine note also sound weird due to its odd cylinder configuration. Matched with this 2.5L is either a 5-speed stick or a 6-speed Tiptronic. The stick shift’s gates are well-defined although a bit rubbery. The clutch take-up remains VW’s typical high engagement point which is a pain-in-the-ass during trafffic jam or going up slope.

The GLI, just like pocket rocket GTI, shares the same wonderfully sound DOHC 2.0L FSI turbocharged engine with 200 ponies and 207 lb/ft of torque. With over 200 lb/ft of torque available as down low as 1800 rpm. This little turbocharged engine has the heart of a 6-cylinder without the front heaviness of one. The turbo spools up quickly and swiftly without any turbo lag at all. All the power delivery is smooth, linear and elegant. Its just lack 6-cylinder’s aggressive top-end performance if you are really picky. GLI has both 6-speed stick or wonderful DSG, or Direct Shift Gearbox available. Just like GTI, the high engagement point of VW’s clutch is really annoying but at least its light and progressive. However, you can’t beat DSG’s quick shifting thanks to its nifty dual clutch set-up. Its not only this automanual is able to heel-and-toe, its also able to match rev as one down or upshifts. The exhaust note matches exactly of those shifting points. According to VW, DSG shifts quicker than any stick shift even if its driven by race drivers. That is really the best sequential tranmission I have ever driven. Better than anything else like BMW’s SMG-2.

Handling: Both Rabbit and GLI share the same ultra solid foundation, which are completely free of any rattles when we pushed on the track. The Rabbit performs surprisingly well considered its tune for daily driver rather than a track car. Electric steering is precise and feedback decent. There are safe understeer and some body rolls, as one expects from a family hatchback. The overall feel is sporty for Rabbit’s status in life as a daily commuter. Standard suspension absorbs all those bumps and roughness with ease. Right rebound damping and suspension setting have transformed a family transporter into a surprisingly capable little track machine.

Speaking of a capable track machine, GLI performs as impressively as GTI on track day. Just like GTI, it has to be one of the most balanced, delicated and thoroughtly communicative driving machines I have ever driven. The surgically precise yet communcative steering that offers point-and-shoot precision, firm sports suspension with comfortable ride quality. As well as an ESP that only kicks in until you are at the edge of the corner with a little threshold for oversteer all make GLI a great driver’s car. While there remain a minimal body rolls and slight understeer when first entering corners, all come out with beautifully body move during corrections all make GLI a truly spectacular sports sedan.

Interior: Both the Rabbit and GLI have the typically high-quality ambience one expects from VW. There are plenty of soft-touched plastic on the dashboard and door panels. In the Rabbit, its velour upholstery is of wonderful quality with great support. The semi automatic climate control: Climatic, works awesome in Rabbit even if its not a full auto variety. In the future, we will see more and more economy and family cars come standard with semi automatic climate control rather than manual control due to their efficiency.

As for GLI, everything is similar to GTI. However, what makes GLI different from GTI is the available automatic climate control. The rest of the interior is identical with same Recaro-made sports seats and tasteful aluminum trim.

Conclusion: With the admission price of just above 20k for Rabbit 2.5, there is really nothing as attractively priced and solidly made in its price range. It also got that special Teutonic feel that lack in its competitors. Consider its 5 grand less expensive than its Jetta silibing, you have to wonder why would anyone going to buy a less versatile sedan with a trunk instead of a hatchback?

As for the GLI, its a hard-to-flawed package that is as astounsing as GTI. If GTI redefined the definition of hot hatch, GLI will redefined the definition of an affordable sports sedan.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2007 VW RABBIT 2.5 AND JETTA GLI
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Performance: 4/5 (Rabbit) 5/5 (GLI)
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.75/5 (Rabbit) 5/5 (GLI)
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 5/5 (Rabbit) 5/5 (GLI)
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 5/5 (Rabbit) 5/5 (GLI)
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5 (Rabbit) 4/5 (GLI)
Value-for-money: 5/5 (Rabbit) 4/5 (GLI)

Overall rating: 4.5/5 (Rabbit) 5/5 (GLI)

2006 VW Jetta 2.5

2006 VW Jetta 2.5 with Tiptronic and Luxury Leather Package
Price as tested: CDN$29675

Performance: Given this 2.5L straight-5 DOHC 20-valver is an engine that replaces the anemic 2.0L 8-valver in previous car, the performance is more than acceptable in Jetta’s application. Although you won’t called its response breathtaking, its far improved over its predecessor. The 170 lb/ft of torque available at 3750 rpm ensures plenty of bottom-end response while 150 ponies at 5000 rpm isn’t too shabby. The refinement also has taken into a new level with much better engine note, unlike the old car which sounds kind of wimpy. The 6-speed Tiptronic works relatively well with this engine, for the most parts. It shifts are crisp and responsive. The engine rpm tends to hang on at 3 grand before it starts to rev again. The gear ratios between 1st and 2nd gears are too far apart. On the other hand, it doesn’t allow driver to rev into redline before upshifting for engine protection. While driving in economical mode, the tachometer is revving at 2100 rpm at 120 km/h which is a far cry from ancient 2.0′s 3 grand at 100 km in Mk4.

Handling: With the stiffer, more advanced chassis with new independent rear suspensions. New Jetta’s handling has improved a lot over its previous car. Gone is the softly sprung feel when pushed into corners. It feels much more well-planted and less understeer during enthuisastic driving. It also has probably the best electric power steering I have ever driven in my recent memory. There are plenty of feedback and very precise without the artifical feel usually assoicated with EPS. In terms of ride comfort, it rates at the top with luxury car that costing twice as much. The suspension absorbs washboard pavements and expansion joints with ease. It has enough rebound damping for aggressive driving without losing the comfortness of being a good daily driver.

Brakes: With standard 4-wheel discs, ABS and EBD. Jetta’s brake system has to be the finest in its class. The stops are short and straight, even fade-free after a couple of hard stops.

Interior: VW has always been highly regarded for its interior, and its true for new Jetta for the most parts. The instrumentation gauges are clear and analog, with a neat trip computer in the center for all the legible informations. Leather seats are very comfortable. It also covered with supple and soft leather seats which no longer feel like vinyl, as in previous car. Both leg and headrooms have been improved due to the additional size. The driving position is easily found with tilt/telescope steering and multi-adjustable seats with power seatbelt control. The biggest disappointment is the use of the material in the center console. There are plenty of hard plastic surrouding the center console. It no longer feels as luxurious as a mini-luxury car as Mk4 Jetta did. Despite that, the switchgears for climate control are stereo remain of very high-quality.

Back seat has to be the biggest improvement in the new Jetta. All the insufficient leg and headrooms have been greatly solved thanks to the extra 1-inch of wheelbase.

In terms of trunk space, its large with 70/30 split fold-down rear seats. However, the somewhat high liftover is a little pet peeve.

Conclusion: I always have a soft spot for Jetta, the first European car I owned was a 99 Mk4 Jetta. The transformation from an European form-follows-function, classy and minimalist looks on all previous 4 iterations, to a generic and blend appearance without any VW character in Mk5 will generate plenty of debates for years to come. This transformation is also risking of losing loyal customers who treat Jetta as a baby luxury car without the badge baggage of a BMW or Mercedes-Benz.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2006 VW JETTA 2.5
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Performance: 4/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 4.5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-f0r-money: 4/5

Overall rating: 4/5