VW Jetta: Review

We found a different review of the VW Jetta over at "The Truth About Cars". Why it's different? Go and read.

For years, Volkswagen’s diesels were like cod liver oil: a worthy medicine that few American consumers could stomach. The stripped-down oil-burners hidden in the back of US forecourts seemed specifically designed for penny-pinching college professors and health food store managers. Customers who considered engine clatter, black smoke and lack of comforts (creature or otherwise) a badge of honor. When $3-a-gallon gas arrived stateside, hordes of “normal” customers suddenly joined the Euro-throngs clamoring for their daily dose of diesel. And no example was-- is-- more sought after than the VW Jetta TDI.

The Jetta TDI's cabin is first in class, boasting build quality that redefines Toyota's Corolla as the place where budget-minded drivers have to sit for an automotive time-out. The TDI’s plastics are well turned-out, stylishly deployed and discreet.

At speed, when you eventually get there, the Jetta provides a rock solid ride. Its 109mph top end condemns it to the autobahn JV squad, but the car’s fast enough to make a lot of fuel-conscious Americans’ heads explode. At slower speeds, through the corners, the Jetta is a competent and predictable handler. A few challenging bends revealed the TDI’s tendency to understeer at the limit, but it’s no compact car killjoy. The steering is crisp and communicative. In the best Volkswagen tradition, the TDI is a car that favors driving over merely operating.

If the old VW diesel was cod liver oil, the new Jetta TDI is more of a mixed greens salad with a raspberry vinaigrette. It’s not a steak, but it tastes good and it’s good for you. Given the current price of feeding-up a meat and potatoes V8, it’s no wonder VW’s diesel dining room is crowded. Dealers report that the Jetta TDI is selling as fast as Toyota’s Prius AND going for sticker.
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