Its not new anymore, but its still a great car.
While it is an older generation Jetta, it has the same engine and transmission of the newer ones.
So to get a whole bunch of stuff out of the way, yes this is the previous generation of the Jetta. This generation was introduced 1/2 through 2005 as an 06 model and it was using the then previous generation Jetta's TDI engine. New emission rules for North America were put into place in 2007 which meant that this engine did not meet the standards and could no longer be sold. VW finally brought a new engine to North America for the 2009 year. However, this generation of the Jetta was soon to be replaced, so that engine only stayed in this body for 2 years and then was put into the new generation. It also came with a new optional transmission which I have previously talked about, the DSG automated manual. Unfortunately this engine and transmission took a bit longer to find their way into the VW Golf. Getting back to the point, why would I talk about an old model if this blog is about new models? I just said why, besides the looks, it is very similar to the new one mechanically, which is what really matters. So lets take a look:
Different Styles:
This previous style of Jetta TDI was available in a 4 door sedan and a wagon. This review will only be covering the 2.0L 4 cylinder TDI Clean Diesel engine with the DSG automated manual engine. For more info about this transmission see the link to a previous review below.
Styling and Comfort Impressions:
This generation of the Jetta is noticeably smaller than the current one. Its more rounded and compact looking, so it actually fits into the compact segment. Just like the current generation, it looks relatively plain compared to others in the class. The chrome center piece in the front does look quite nice though. There is not much else to say about the outside of it, its just plain and the windows are nice and large.
Once you get inside the looks don't get much better. This car is an extreme example of when the lighter colour option on the inside needs to be picked. Overall the interior is very plain and boring. Straight lines everywhere, lots of hard plastics and lots of dark colours. The upside is that everything is laid out very logically and it is all easy to use and reach when driving. Here, take a look:
Besides the looks though, it is a very comfortable car to sit in. The seats are firm enough for long road trips ( where the diesel really shines) but are still padded nicely with enough support for going around corners fast. The back seat has a good amount of legroom and headroom as well. I do fit behind myself comfortably. One thing that I particularly like about this generation of the Jetta is that the rear seats get their own set of air vents from the center armrest. Something they took out of the newer generation, which is a pity. This generation of the Jetta TDI also comes with one of my favorite features basically standard, heated front seats, and not just on and off settings, but they are variable by about 4 levels. The sound system isn't the best as it is an older car, but its not particularly bad. The trunk is decently large and has a nice center pass through for long skinny items while 2 people are still sitting in the back seat.
Driving Impressions:
If you want some quick info about diesel engines, their main difference with gas engines and a bit of info about the DSG transmission VW has, here is a link to my review of the 2011-14 Jetta TDI:2011-14 Jetta TDI Review
One interesting thing about this older generation Jetta from the new one is that even though it is smaller, it weighs a bit more ( about 100 lbs). However, this doesn't really effect performance much. What does effect performance is the older suspension. While it does use the same engine and transmission, you can easily tell it is an older car. There is less soundproofing so the diesel clatter can be slightly heard while inside the car, while in the new one its almost quiet. It seems to have a little bit of turbo lag which is sometimes a bit of a shock, but Im sure one could get used to it quite quickly. It is a bit more rough on uneven roads than the newer one but overall it is very comfy in the city and on the highway. There is a bit more road and wind noise due to slightly less insulation than the newer Jetta, but its not enough to make it unpleasant.
It is smaller than the current Jetta which means parking lots and tight streets are easier to navigate.
Overall:
Its hard to not compare this Jetta TDI to the current one, but each one has its advantages and disadvantages. While the current one may be larger, more comfortable, and look better on the inside; the older one is better in smaller places, looks smart, just as economical, and it is much easier to find one at a very reasonable price. I would say if you are looking for a second car, or want an introductory car into the diesel world, this older generation of the Jetta is the better pick as you get many of the same features of the new one, but at a much better price. And of course, since diesel engines last much longer than gas ones, you will have less to worry about when looking at used ones for longevity.
Facts/ Figures:
Price ( for this trim level): --
FWD
MPG (approx*): 30 city, 40 highway ( these figures have been proven to be very easy to beat)
Cargo room (approx*): 16 CuFt
Length: 179''
Width: 70''
Tank Size (gal): 14.5
Miles on one tank (using combined MPG figures): 507
Average used price with 100,000KM or less: $13,000+
* when I say "approx" I usually am using the numbers given by the actual manufacturer or Consumer Reports, minus 1 to be a bit more realistic.
Enjoy!
J.K.
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