Volkswagen Jetta: 2006-’10

HISTORY

Volkswagen’s “Rabbit with a trunk” dates back to 1975. By the mid-1980s, a second-generation Jetta arrived, followed by the Jetta III model in mid-’93. A fourth-generation sedan arrived for 1999, followed by a wagon derivative that joined the fleet in mid-2001. A completely new 2006 sedan appeared in early 2005, but the Sportwagen derivative was delayed until the 2009 model year. Both were available with a choice of five-cylinder and turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engines as well as a four-cylinder turbo-diesel (TDI). A new Jetta rolled off the factory floor for the 2011 model year.

THE GOOD STUFF

The Mexico-built Jetta provided German-engineered fit and finish at a far more affordable price than, for example, a BMW 3-Series, Audi A4 or Mercedes-benz C-class sedan. Both Jetta gasoline engines, including the 150-horsepower five-cylinder (upgraded to 170 horsepower for 2008) and the 200-horsepower turbo four-cylinder (standard in the sporty GLI) delivered decent power. As well, the 140-horsepower four-cylinder turbo-diesel available in 2009-’10 Jettas delivered stellar fuel economy along with reasonable acceleration and was a significant improvement over the 2006-only 100-horsepower diesel. The Sportwagen provided a blend of sharp styling, crisp handling and outstanding cargo capacity that exceeded the specs of similarly sized square-back designs.

HEADS UP!

The Jetta’s narrow body meant a tight fit for rear-seat passengers. The base five-cylinder engine was not especially athletic, made worse when handicapped with a full load of people and/or luggage. It was also noisy, as was the 170-horse replacement. Overall build quality for this generation of Jetta was not quite up to the standards set by competitors such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Hyundai Elantra. Various electrical gremlins appear to be the most common complaint. Note that some turbo-diesel Jettas were affected by the emissions-cheating scandal dating back to 2015. You should confirm with the seller that the necessary repairs have been made before purchasing one of these models.

PRICES AT A GLANCE

Jetta resale values are reasonably modest, with the exception of turbodiesel editions that have slipped significantly in value, compared to their gasoline-powered counterparts. High-end GLI models tend to sell at a premium.

YEAR RANGE APPROX. PRICE RANGE

2006 $2,500-$3,000

2007 $3,000-$3,500

2008 $3,500-$4,000

2009 $4,000-$5,000

2010 $4,500-$5,500

The higher end of a given price range represents vehicles with more options and fewer miles. (Note: Prices here exclude diesels.)

OVERALL

Jetta sedans and wagons have cavernous stowage, which is useful on long trips. Despite the negative publicity, the turbo-diesels’ frugal fuel consumption and long life expectancy remain definite assets. The Golf hatchback, which shares the same platform as the Jetta, might be more practical for some.

VITALS

Engines: 1.9-liter SOHC I-4 turbo-diesel (100 hp); 2.0-liter DOHC I-4 turbodiesel (140 hp); 2.5-liter DOHC I-5 (150-170 hp); 2.0-liter DOHC I-4 (200 hp). Transmissions: Five-speed manual; five- /six-speed automatic; six-speed automated manual (opt., 2.0 turbo-diesel and 2.0 I4).

Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel drive. Body: Four-door sedan/wagon.