2008 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan Review
The Jetta is a compact sedan that debuted in the 1980s. It quickly became Volkswagen’s best selling vehicle in the U.S. The current generation debuted in mid-2005. A diesel model was added later that year, and a turbocharged variant debuted for 2006. It was named SmartMoney’s “2006 Best Premium Compact Car.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Volkswagen Jetta adds quite a bit of sophistication to the compact sedan segment, as well as a good price. While there are more reliable compacts out there, none have the elegance of the Jetta. Even though, the interior design surpasses the exterior. If you’re a budget buyer with luxury aspirations, the Jetta is a good fit for you.
What’s New For 2008:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Jetta 2.5 stars for overall mechanical reliability, 3 stars for overall design quality, and 3.5 stars for overall performance and design. The last generation had issues with rattling speakers, stuck clutches, coolant leaks, engine noise, hard starting, rough idling and vehicle noise. It was recalled seven times. The current generation has had issues with high resistance airbag connectors, underpowered fuses, stuck fuel doors and transmission noise. It’s been recalled twice for malfunctioning brake light switches and potential fuel leaks. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for four years or 50,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Jetta earned 4 stars in government frontal crash tests and 5 stars in side tests. In IIHS tests, it earned “Good” for the front and side, and “Marginal” for the rear. Anti-lock brakes, traction control and full side airbags are standard. Stability control is standard on all but the S. Rear side airbags are optional.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Upscale
+ Inexpensive
+ Plenty of standard safety features
Cons
– Bland exterior
– Average fuel economy
– Reliability concerns
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Jetta costs several hundred less than the Hyundai Sonata GLS and has an extra cylinder. The Mazda MAZDA3 cost about $3,000 less but lacks traction control, has less cargo space, and lacks a fifth cylinder. The Subaru Impreza 2.5i includes AWD, but lacks traction control, has less cargo space and has only a four-cylinder engine.
What Others Are Saying:
“More luxurious and larger than the four prior generations, the new Volkswagen Jetta packs enough upscale features to appeal to upwardly mobile Golf and Jetta owners, while drawing new buyers into the fold.” – Automobile Magazine
“I guess the ‘drivers wanted’ are of the bunny slipper wearing and hot cocoa drinking variety. While that’s no bad thing in and of itself, it’s clear that the Jetta is an anachronism. Its hair shirt minimalist cabin evokes a time when VW’s build quality compensated for their monkish interiors. These days the marque’s quality is a barely-remembered myth, and there are plenty of $20k-ish sedans offering both comfort AND reliability.” – The Truth About Cars
“Volkswagen did its best to get us excited over its marketing plans. Aimed at young professionals with a zest for life, folks who try to get more out of living, they said. Frankly, Hilda, I don’t give a damn! It’s the car that counts. So I’m happy to report that the new Jetta is a superb automobile; not without faults but a great improvement over the previous model and guaranteed to make certain Oriental manufacturers and at least one German very nervous.” – About.com
Read more about the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan at the Volkswagen manufacturer web site.
