Jetta

Impressions
Jetta
Impressions: The Jetta has introduced the VW brand to many North Americans over the past quarter century. The 2007 version, totally redesigned for the 2006 model year, continues the trend of supplying good looks, good value and a strong dose of safety equipment. There's also good power on hand since a base 150-horse 2.5-liter five-cylinder provides the front wheels with considerable pep. A five-speed manual transmission is part of the basic Jetta package, while a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic manual control is optional. A significant array of standard safety features includes anti-lock brakes, traction control, active head restraints and front, side-impact and side-curtain airbags. Rear side-impact airbags are optional. A CD stereo and most power amenities arrive as standard equipment while options include dual-zone climate control, heated seats with "leatherette" surfaces, rain-sensing wipers, power driver's seat and upgraded audio systems. The Jetta is actually aimed at a wide spectrum of competitors, from the Mazda3 to the Acura TSX and Volvo S40. Covering that range is no easy chore, but the Jetta comes in several variations, from price leader with a lower base sticker this year to spunky people-mover. At the top is the GLI that comes with a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and can scoot to 60 m.p.h. in less than seven seconds. It also includes stability control to keep you heading in the direction you intend, xenon headlights, sport seats, drilled-metal pedals and an exclusive six-speed "Direct Shift" transmission, basically a manual transmission that shifts without you having to push a clutch pedal. Temporarily missing from the lineup is a diesel-powered Jetta, since the engine for that model is being revamped to meet new emissions regulations.

Base price: $16,500 (est.)
Type: Four-door sedan
Base engine (hp): 2.5-liter SOHC I5 (150)
Optional engine (hp): 2.0-liter DOHC I4, turbocharged (200)
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive
Transmissions: Five-speed manual; six-speed manual (opt.); six-speed automatic (opt.)
Mileage (city/hwy): 22/30 (2.5, MT)
Safety: Front airbags; side-impact airbags; head-protection airbags; rear side-impact airbags (opt.); anti-lock brakes; traction control; stability control (opt.)
Weight (lb.): 3,200
Basic warranty: 4/50,000
Roadside assistance: Yes
Web: vw.com