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2008 Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 Road Test

Since 1980, Volkswagen's small sedan, the Jetta, has been a popular choice

More than just a good daily driver, the Jetta is fun and well made. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

for buyers here in the United States. Not too big, not too small, it's the perfect size for singles, couples or a new family. It appeals to a wide range of individuals, and stays true to VW's German engineering philosophy. A well rounded car, its style isn't outshined by its practicality, spacious interior, or powertrain. The fifth generation VW Jetta nails down the qualities that many consumers look for in a small sedan.

I really like Volkswagen's styling for the latest Jetta too, especially the chrome grille and bumper trim that sets it apart from other cars on the road, as well as the Rabbit. Like the previous Jetta, the new one has a classy look that allows it to be just as at home on Rodeo Drive as it is in the driveway of a suburban home. There really are no major changes to the Jetta's exterior since it was launched in 2006, although for this year Volkswagen is offering it in new colors, with new wheels (and wheel covers) and dark-tinted tail lamps. A Jetta wagon will arrive later this year.

The interior of the Jetta and its twin, the Rabbit are admired for their

Jetta's interior is the envy of the class. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

layout and use of high-quality materials. In particular, I like how Volkswagen is able to create different appearances depending on trim level and model. With leather, and a dark headliner, it's sophisticated; with the chunky steering wheel, tartan plaid seats and unique instrumentation as in the GLI, it's sporty; and with comfortable cloth seats and silver-gray dashboard trim, it's warm and welcoming. As with all other Volkswagen products, the instruments and buttons are illuminated in blue and red. It's different, and I prefer it to the more conventional green or orange, as it's easier on my eyes.

There's a lot to be said for clear and effective controls too – something that the Jetta has. They're intuitive, well-labeled and clear, which is a nice, refreshing change from some of the complicated and overcrowded set-ups that I've encountered. However, the new cruise control stalk can be a bit confusing to operate if you're not familiar with it. It's been moved and is now integrated into the turn signal.

Smoked taillights and Laser Blue paint are both new for '08. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

The seating is straightforward, with a knob-style recliner and a ratchet height adjuster plus tilt and telescoping steering column, which makes it easy to find the right driving position. Individual headrests for all seats plus three-point seatbelts for all occupants is a plus. The Jetta comes standard with front and side airbags, but Volkswagen offers an optional upgrade to side curtain and rear-seat side airbags. ESP stability control is an option too. Also, the Jetta possesses a giant trunk. At 0.5 cubic metres, it's even bigger than the Passat's (0.4 m3) cargo hold, which can be made even larger by folding the 40/60 split rear seat.

The standard Jetta is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-five that has been updated for 2008. It now makes 170 horsepower, up from 150 hp, while torque is increased from 170 lb-ft, to 177 lb-ft. It also has a higher redline, which is now above 6,000 rpm. Even with the optional six-speed automatic (rare in the compact class... although the Jetta is more of a midsize car now), the Jetta was always on the ball,

2.5's revisions give it a much improved horsepower figure. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

and never felt like it'd be left in the dust of traffic as some of its less powerful competitors might feel. A smooth-shifting five-speed manual is available for those who prefer to shift themselves. For enthusiasts that want a little more “pow” from their car, there is the optional 2.0-liter turbo that makes 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque, available to the 2.0T and the GLI models. It's definitely the more exciting choice of the two motors, and can be had with a six-speed manual or the 6-speed DSG transmission. One downside to the Jetta is that it is a bit on the thirsty side. Its larger engine means that you'll only be getting about 22 mpg in the city, though things are better on the highway where it travels around 29 mpg. Interestingly, the more powerful (and more expensive) 2.0T gets better gas mileage, as long as you maintain a conservative right foot. For those concerned about fuel economy, the TDI diesel will return this autumn.

When it comes to the Jetta's handling and ride, the car is set apart by its distinctive European tuning. It's a sedan that hugs the corners with ease, and it has little body lean – it feels strong and solid. The Jetta is an

The Jetta's trunk is actually bigger than most of its midsize competitors. (Photo: Justin Couture, American Auto Press)

enjoyable car to drive, out on your favorite road, or even in the city. And when you are stuck in traffic, you might just find yourself smiling as you remember all the good times that you've had with it.

The Jetta is a car anyone should consider if they're looking for a small-ish sedan, but you need to be wary of pricing, the only real strike against it. Its base price starts at $16,990. Most of its rivals, like the Civic, Corolla and Elantra top out where the Jetta starts, although these are smaller and deliver a less premium feel. If you start to add on the packages, it gets expensive, very quickly. This well-equipped test car with automatic, alloy wheels, leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control and heated seats costs over $22,000, which is in the territory of a four-cylinder Accord, Camry or Sonata. But, at $16,990 the base Jetta is very well equipped with standard air conditioning, keyless entry and power windows and door locks. Buy it like this, and the Jetta is an affordable taste of the European driving experience.

It's hard to find a small car these days that's more than just A-to-B transportation, and with that in mind, the Jetta is a good choice. Whether you're lugging the family around, out doing errands or picking up your snowboard and hitting the hills for some shred time, the Jetta is a perfect companion.

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