Volkswagen Jetta

   The Volkswagen Jetta is produced since 2005.

   It is powered by the same engines the VW Golf is, excluding the entry-level 1.4-liter model and a low-powered diesel. The star buy is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel, delivering 140 hp. If you prefer raw power, go for the Golf GTI's engine.

   The new Volkswagen Jetta is stable at speed and well controlled. Power steering is sharp and gets weightier with speed, unfortunately it does not give enough feedback to the driver. Ride is a little firm over urban potholes though.

   A 1.6-liter petrol is noisy as it needs to be worked hard, but the 2.0-liter petrols are hushed. Exhaust note on the diesel engines are not the sweetest-sounding thing and this feature is common to all VW diesels. Driving a diesel you can easily tell what kind of fuel it runs on.

   The Volkswagen Jetta is bigger than the Golf. Furthermore it costs more and is thirstier on fuel. Despite that both fuel economy and servicing costs are decent. Small sedans are usually more practical than the hatchbacks, but many buyers will go for a hatch. This is why the new Jetta might loose it's value faster than the Golf. The VW are very reliable and should prove trouble free even without constant maintenance.

   Cabins build and trim quality are among the best in the class comparing with other cars with a similar price tag, but the previous VW Bora seemed to be built more classy materials. Most of the controls are smooth.

   It is easy to get comfortable in front of the wheel. Driver's seat is adjustable for height, while the steering wheel has both way adjustments. Unfortunately the thick rear screen pillars create blind spots.

   Jetta's bigger cabin has more head- and shoulder room for the front occupants. Rear passengers also enjoy increased overall proportions comparing with the Golf. Two large adults can get themselves comfortable on the rear seats. It's boot is simply enormous for this class. In fact even rivals a Ford Mondeo, but it could be better shaped though.

   Six airbags, anti-lock brakes with stability control are standard across the range. Furthermore there are active head restraints. On the security list deadlocks are standard, but alarm is fitted on the SE models and above.

   Every Jetta comes with electric windows, CD-player and remote locking. The S trim adds climatic air conditioning, while the SE comes with a cruise control, alloy wheels and other goodies, such as automatic lights and wipers.

   Production of the VW Jetta still continues.

   Advantages: The new Jetta drives like a Golf it is based on. It is a practical car, that's reasonably spacious, reliable and trouble free.

   Disadvantages: A scaled-up Golf is thirstier on fuel and is more expensive to buy.

   Also consider: Honda Civic, Mazda 3.