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2008 VW City Golf and Jetta First Impressions

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Marc Bouchard
Not convinced? Well, read this: the 2008 City Golf, which will hit Canadian showrooms on November 1st, will retail for only $15,300. Add $1,500 or so and you will be able to get your hands on a 2008 City Jetta.

Of course, by selecting the automatic transmission, climate control and a Power Package that includes remote entry, the final price will be a few thousands of dollars higher. That said, the City Golf will never cost more than $20,500. Admit it, this might very well be the deal of the year.

With its new taillights, the City Golf looks like its Rabbit sister.

Some obvious changes

With the new City Golf and Jetta, the most obvious changes are visual. A closer look at both cars reveals that almost all exterior components have been altered.

Among them are a new front grille that reflects Volkswagen's modern personality, redesigned sideview mirrors with integrated turn signals and a totally reshaped rear end.

Likewise, the City Jetta gets updated parts and a whole new style. It looks more modern while keeping the City character intact.

Under the hood
There are no surprises here! It's the same old 115-hp 2.0L four-cylinder engine that delivers the same restrained enthusiasm. While this mill won't make your neck snap at takeoff, it proves to be an honest worker with a reputation of being tireless.

The transmission, on the other hand, is new. Well, the standard 5-speed manual gearbox remains on the menu (a wise decision considering its easy shifting), but the optional 6-speed automatic transmission represents a first in this category. The result is reduced engine speed when cruising. Hopefully, this should help improve the cars' fuel economy, which was among the worst in the compact segment.

The old but venerable 2.0L engine powers the 2008 City Golf and Jetta.

Marc Bouchard
Marc Bouchard
Automotive expert