The completely redesigned, next-generation Volkswagen Jetta recently made its public debut in Times Square in New York City, giving the Big Apple the first peek at some big changes to VW’s U.S. best seller.
For one thing, the new Jetta itself is bigger, growing some 3.5 inches in length to allow for a roomier, more comfortable cabin, featuring premium materials, best-in-class legroom and intuitively placed controls. In fact, the console section of the center stack is even slightly inclined toward the driver to provide easy access to switchgear for the car’s climate, radio and navigation systems. For added versatility, the 60/40 split rear seats in the Jetta can be folded down to accommodate more cargo.
The bigger package gets wrapped in new sheet metal, too. The look is clean, sculpted and more elegant, with a number of sophisticated accents. For example, the front of the new Jetta presents as a single, cohesive styling unit that integrates trapezoidal headlights and a high-gloss black radiator grille for an athletic appearance. Also notable are the sedan’s more distinctive wheel arches and overall more dynamic profile, which gets added emphasis from a bold shoulder line.
“Big” is also the perfect description of the 2011 Jetta’s powertrain choices. Four separate engines will be offered: The base mill will be an efficient 2.0-liter I4 aimed at improving fuel efficiency, and one of VW’s hallmark TDI clean diesel engines, of similar size, also will be available for even better mileage numbers. Remember, the 2010 Jetta TDI is capable of an amazing 30 mpg city/42 mpg highway. The popular five-cylinder R5 engine from the current model will carry over, while a high-performance 2.0-liter TSI forced-induction powerplant will debut in 2011 on the Jetta GLI.
All models will have a standard manual transmission, with an automatic as an option. Jetta GLI drivers can also choose VW’s advanced dual-clutch DSG automatic transmission with paddle shifters for the optimum mix of performance and fuel efficiency.
There has, however, been one rather drastic cut made to the 2011 Jetta: It’s base price will drop from $17,735 to about $16,000.
“Today marks the beginning of a new era for Volkswagen and for Jetta,” said Stefan Jacoby, CEO of Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “The all-new 2011 Jetta is a class-up driving experience with the kind of styling, design and power under the hood normally found in more expensive luxury cars. At an extremely attractive price, this car is sophisticated, fun to drive and practical.”
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