For years, the Volkswagen Jetta and its derivatives have basically owned the affordable German premium car marketplace. If a BMW proved too expensive, a Mercedes too flashy and an Audi too pretentious, the Volkswagen Jetta was a Bavarian sedan alternative that offered many of the same benefits of German lineage to shopper on a tighter budget.
The last-generation Jetta was available from 2006 to 2010 model years, inclusive. A Jetta wagon was also available, as were numerous drivetrain configurations including gas, diesel and turbocharged gas engines. Several limited-edition packages and model variants were on the scene, too. For the sake of simplicity, this particular report will focus on models equipped with VW’s then-new 2.5 litre five-cylinder engine. If you’re interested in more specific powertrain information on a Jetta GLI or 2.0T model, check out our used VW GTI review for the specifics on its turbocharged powerplant.
Jetta 2.5 models launched with a unique five-cylinder engine that initially developed 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual or six-speed automatic with Tiptronic shifting was available. For 2009, engineers gave the five-cylinder engine 20 more horsepower, raising the total to 170. All models were front-wheel drive.
Shoppers in the used marketplace can check for features like heated power leather seating, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, fog-lamps, a sunroof and premium audio systems. A tilt and telescopic steering wheel, remote access, air conditioning and a full complement of power accessories were on board, too.
Owners typically rate the Jetta’s ride, handling, styling, comfort and spaciousness highly, with refinement, quiet and overall driving feel coming in just behind. Many owners say they feel safe and confident while driving in the wintertime, and others report pleasing performance and decent mileage from the five-cylinder engine. Where driving dynamics, looks and performance are concerned, the Jetta seems to have largely hit the proverbial nail on the head. Easy-to-use controls and good visibility round out the long list of ‘pros’.
Common complaints include some interior squeaks and rattles, frequent burning out of lightbulbs, somewhat limited rear-seat space and awkward seats. The latter complaint is largely dependent on your own shape and size, so be sure to ascertain whether or not you’re able to get comfortable in the used Jetta you’re considering on a test-drive.
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| 2006 Volkswagen Jetta (Photo: Volkswagen) |
The last-generation Jetta was available from 2006 to 2010 model years, inclusive. A Jetta wagon was also available, as were numerous drivetrain configurations including gas, diesel and turbocharged gas engines. Several limited-edition packages and model variants were on the scene, too. For the sake of simplicity, this particular report will focus on models equipped with VW’s then-new 2.5 litre five-cylinder engine. If you’re interested in more specific powertrain information on a Jetta GLI or 2.0T model, check out our used VW GTI review for the specifics on its turbocharged powerplant.
Jetta 2.5 models launched with a unique five-cylinder engine that initially developed 150 horsepower. A five-speed manual or six-speed automatic with Tiptronic shifting was available. For 2009, engineers gave the five-cylinder engine 20 more horsepower, raising the total to 170. All models were front-wheel drive.
Shoppers in the used marketplace can check for features like heated power leather seating, automatic climate control, alloy wheels, fog-lamps, a sunroof and premium audio systems. A tilt and telescopic steering wheel, remote access, air conditioning and a full complement of power accessories were on board, too.
Owners typically rate the Jetta’s ride, handling, styling, comfort and spaciousness highly, with refinement, quiet and overall driving feel coming in just behind. Many owners say they feel safe and confident while driving in the wintertime, and others report pleasing performance and decent mileage from the five-cylinder engine. Where driving dynamics, looks and performance are concerned, the Jetta seems to have largely hit the proverbial nail on the head. Easy-to-use controls and good visibility round out the long list of ‘pros’.
Common complaints include some interior squeaks and rattles, frequent burning out of lightbulbs, somewhat limited rear-seat space and awkward seats. The latter complaint is largely dependent on your own shape and size, so be sure to ascertain whether or not you’re able to get comfortable in the used Jetta you’re considering on a test-drive.
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| 2008 Volkwagen Jetta (Photo: Volkswagen) |