2008 Volkswagen City Jetta Review

European Driving - Economy Pricing

Modernizing and retaining the previous generation Jetta and Golf was a bold move by Volkswagen. This Canadian-only duo of entry-level VWs is proving remarkably popular thanks to their tremendous value and the Euro driving experience they so economically deliver.

Modernizing and retaining the previous generation Jetta and Golf was a bold move by Volkswagen.

Timeless styling and design
There are very few automotive styling themes that defy Father Time better than that of the City Jetta. Although subtle styling cues distinguish the City Jetta from the former Jetta, the look remains clean, balanced and fresh. Perhaps the absence of drama and flair in the car's styling has enabled it to elude old man Time; unfortunately, its short trunk lid can also elude the stowage of bulky items.

In addition to an ageless external appearance, the City Jetta wows its occupants with a European-like tightly constructed cabin utilizing high quality materials and attractive highlights. Look for niceties such as brushed aluminum inlays, a chrome shift plate (automatic transmission), fabric covered roof pillars, blue luminescent instrument lighting and two-tone richly woven fabric seating.

Standard equipment embodied in the $16,900 entry fee includes a 6-speaker MP3-readable audio system with auxiliary and USB ports, remote locking, power-adjustable side mirrors, height-adjustable driver's seat, 60/40-split folding rear seat, tilt/telescopic steering column and two centre-console power outlets.

Under the hood
The City Jetta receives Volkswagen's long-serving 2.0 litre inline four-cylinder engine. This SOHC powerplant is none too sophisticated in its production of 115-horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 122 pound-feet of torque @ 2,600 rpm.

The growly little guy is affixed to either a five-speed manual gearbox or an optional automatic transmission of impressive caliber. The optional autobox, which my tester held, is VW's thoroughly modern six-speed unit featuring Tiptronic, electronic manual-mode shifting.

At 9.9 and 6.9 litres per 100KM fuel the economy is less than many of its rivals.