Volkswagen Jetta

Author: Ian Strachan

Volkswagen’s medium-sized Jetta has just got bigger. The latest version of this often over-looked little brother to the Passat is now longer and wider, giving it a more elegant look, and more legroom for rear passengers.

The new Jetta also gets a range of advanced clean engines, better suspension and an updated interior. With a high boot, deep grille, sleek profile and classy trim details it is a stylish mid-range saloon.

When you get in this car you realise that the Jetta is all about understated quality combined with value-for-money reliable motoring.

That's not to mention frugality. I test drove ultra-economical Jetta BlueMotion with the excellent 105 horsepower 1.6 diesel engine, which has all the power you need while being willing and economical. Its penny pinching fuel consumption is helped by a slick, nicely sprung five speed manual gearbox. It's one of the few five-speed setups that never feels as if it needs that sixth cog. It also has an automatic stop/start facility, which can be switched off.

The smooth and refined engine lacks for nothing and delivers power pleasantly, although it is a touch noisier than some modern diesels. But this is an enjoyable car to drive, and it can still return an impressive 67.3 mpg in mixed driving. There's also a two litre 140 bhp diesel available, and two 1.4 petrol options.

Handling is excellent and the car feels rigid and stable even when being pushed hard around corners. Road holding is sure footed and the ride is very comfortable.

Inside, the car is roomy and well laid out, with comfortable, easy to adjust seats. There has been a lot of attention to detail with controls which fall easily to hand, semi-automatic air conditioning, all round electric windows, powered and heated door mirrors, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlamps.

The boot is huge with more than enough height and depth and a lid which opens fully upright to make loading easier. The back seats fold forward to give extra depth.

Standard features include very nice 16" alloys, ABS with electronic differential lock and traction control, Radiop/CD/MP3 player with iPod connectivity, alarm and immobiliser, steering wheel-mounted controls and all round airbags. My test car had platinum grey metallic paint at £465. 

This is a thoughtfully put together package. It looks good and will give you comfortable and effortless business travelling. And it's good value at £19,735 on the road. 

Road test by Ian Strachan Communications Ltd

Ian Strachan is a motoring and business writer and PR consultant. He can be contacted on 01543 490932 or 07949 202596 or via email: ian@strachan13.freeserv