Intelligence is a concept that’s hard to define. Rationality can be a sign of intelligence, especially when it comes to shopping for a new car. It’s also the focus of engineers and designers who created the all-new 2009 Volkswagen Jetta Wagon TDI Clean Diesel. This car is a sweet combination of understated styling, generous cargo room and, above all, great fuel economy.
Don’t count on the Jetta to turn anyone’s head, except maybe your brother-in-law’s, who wants to take a peak under the hood to admire the engine that produces such a lovely purr. Overall, the design stays true to German tradition -- nothing fancy but lots of practicality.
One thing that struck me, as with most wagons, is the small-looking set of wheels in the back in relation to the understandably massive boot. In other news, from the front, the windshield wipers are completely hidden by the hood, which sure improves aerodynamics but might pose a problem during winter once ice starts to build up.
Like every other current-generation Jetta, this one sports a cascading chrome grille. While it positively adds to the car’s prestige, chrome is frustratingly prone to scratch over time with all the road debris thrown at it.
Too rational?
The interior of the 2009 VW Jetta Wagon TDI is so rational that it lacks audacity. Just like outside, the focus is clearly on functionality rather than sexiness. The wide middle section of the dashboard may prove very user-friendly, but a little more ornamentation or boldness would have certainly enhanced the whole layout. The blue illumination of the instruments at night, no matter how eye-pleasing it is, is simply not enough.
Comfort also lives up to German standards. The bucket seats are just firm enough to allow fatigue-free trips. The support they provide is adequate for this type of car. Despite the size of the rear end, this compact wagon does not feel that big on the road. All-around visibility is good.
The 2009 Jetta Wagon offers class-average equipment. Given that it’s a German car, adding a couple of options or moving up to a higher trim level will quickly increase the price well above its attractive MSRP of $23,475.
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| The Jetta Wagon TDI has no direct rival in North America. |
Don’t count on the Jetta to turn anyone’s head, except maybe your brother-in-law’s, who wants to take a peak under the hood to admire the engine that produces such a lovely purr. Overall, the design stays true to German tradition -- nothing fancy but lots of practicality.
One thing that struck me, as with most wagons, is the small-looking set of wheels in the back in relation to the understandably massive boot. In other news, from the front, the windshield wipers are completely hidden by the hood, which sure improves aerodynamics but might pose a problem during winter once ice starts to build up.
Like every other current-generation Jetta, this one sports a cascading chrome grille. While it positively adds to the car’s prestige, chrome is frustratingly prone to scratch over time with all the road debris thrown at it.
Too rational?
The interior of the 2009 VW Jetta Wagon TDI is so rational that it lacks audacity. Just like outside, the focus is clearly on functionality rather than sexiness. The wide middle section of the dashboard may prove very user-friendly, but a little more ornamentation or boldness would have certainly enhanced the whole layout. The blue illumination of the instruments at night, no matter how eye-pleasing it is, is simply not enough.
Comfort also lives up to German standards. The bucket seats are just firm enough to allow fatigue-free trips. The support they provide is adequate for this type of car. Despite the size of the rear end, this compact wagon does not feel that big on the road. All-around visibility is good.
The 2009 Jetta Wagon offers class-average equipment. Given that it’s a German car, adding a couple of options or moving up to a higher trim level will quickly increase the price well above its attractive MSRP of $23,475.
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| The interior of the 2009 VW Jetta Wagon TDI is so rational that it lacks audacity. |