Braking performance is the final City Jetta dynamic to explore. Powerful four-wheel antilock disc brakes bring the car to startlingly brief halts, with little to no nosedive or instability; that's not always the case in the econo-box world.
Final tally
The 2008 City Jetta is a very pleasing car to find oneself behind the wheel of. Despite the vibration and growl of its four-banger powerplant, I looked forward to long and short takes in the driver's seat. The harmonics of the little mill add character to the car, which is solidly built and accurately executed in every way.
Assuming long-term reliability measures up to the Asian-based competition - which hasn't always been the case - VW has a real economy winner on its hands. Despite being built in Mexico, the City Jetta delivers a European driving experience not normally associated with an MSRP of just $16,900. And it does so while providing plenty of comfort and convenience extras as standard equipment. Regrettably side airbags and side curtain protection are available as options rather than standard fare, as is traction control and an electronic stabilization program.
Timeless design
European driving characteristics
High value equation
Engine vibration and coarseness
Mediocre fuel economy
None
photo:Rob Rothwell
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| The 2008 City Jetta is a very pleasing car to find oneself behind the wheel of. |
Final tally
The 2008 City Jetta is a very pleasing car to find oneself behind the wheel of. Despite the vibration and growl of its four-banger powerplant, I looked forward to long and short takes in the driver's seat. The harmonics of the little mill add character to the car, which is solidly built and accurately executed in every way.
Assuming long-term reliability measures up to the Asian-based competition - which hasn't always been the case - VW has a real economy winner on its hands. Despite being built in Mexico, the City Jetta delivers a European driving experience not normally associated with an MSRP of just $16,900. And it does so while providing plenty of comfort and convenience extras as standard equipment. Regrettably side airbags and side curtain protection are available as options rather than standard fare, as is traction control and an electronic stabilization program.
 |
European driving characteristics
High value equation
 |
Engine vibration and coarseness
Mediocre fuel economy
 |
None
photo:Rob Rothwell
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