Volkswagen Jetta a tremendous value
2012 edition comfortable and stylish
There are many manufacturers who use small passenger car diesel engines in other parts of the world, but only a couple of these are currently selling diesel-powered cars in North America. In this market, Volkswagen rules. The 2.0 Litre TDI turbo diesel engine has been around for many years but what many don’t realize is that this engine has undergone many changes over the years to become what it is today. You could say the same for the Jetta sedan, the car we tested.
The 2012 Jetta is a comfortable, stylish and roomy sedan. We tested the top trim level called the Highline model, although you won’t find that name anywhere on the car. You can only tell it is a Highline model by the equipment the vehicle has such as leather seating, push button access and starting, 17 inch wheels and power sunroof. Other Jetta models start with the Trendline, at just over $15,000, the Comfortline and the Sportline. The Sportline comes only with gasoline fuelled engines, while other models have the TDI diesel as an option. On our Highline model, the diesel added about $2,300 to the sticker price while the optional Technology package which includes a touch screen Navigation system and Fender 400 watt digital sound package added another $1,290.
For 2012, Volkswagen takes a volume approach with the Jetta. The more contemporary body style was introduced last year, this year’s model builds on value. Prices have remained almost the same, while features have been added. The Highline gets leather interior that looks and feels attractive. The heated seats were appreciated during our cold snap. Interior room is very good for four adults although officially this compact car is listed as a five passenger sedan. Back seat legroom is the largest in its class and headroom is very good even with a sunroof in the car.
A large trunk will be useful for hauling your team sports equipment or gear for a family vacation.
Press the start button on the console and the gauges come to life but there is no cranking sound. After a few seconds so the air for the combustion chambers can be heated, the diesel engine cranks to life and runs with a smooth, quiet idle. Pressing the start button a second time before it starts cranking will start the engine immediately. Press the button again when it is running and the engine stops. Many drivers wouldn’t guess this Jetta was diesel powered except for the TDI emblem on the rear. It is smooth, quiet even when started cold, and revs freely.
Today’s diesel engines run very clean and the fuel has almost no smell, dispelling most objections of those who prefer gas engines, and the 2.0 TDI engine’s performance would soon convert even die-hard diesel objectors. The only problem I have with the Jetta TDI is that its excellent fuel economy gives it such a long range that you have to force the driver to make washroom breaks!
The Jetta TDI comes with either a manual transmission or the six-speed DSG automatic.
One of the Jetta’s characteristics has been its sporty, firm handling. This hasn’t changed. The steering feels light and quick and the whole car has a sporty feel to it. The larger 17 inch wheels and lower profile tires on our Highline model give a little firmer ride and crisper handling.
While it isn’t a sports car, the Jetta will more than hold its own on a twisty road and be fun to drive.