Test drive: 2008 Volkswagen Jetta SE
Monday February 18, 2008
I'll be honest -- I didn't expect a whole lot from the Volkswagen Jetta SE. I've always liked the hot-rod verison of the VW Jetta, the GLI, but the base model version -- formerly known as the Jetta 2.5, now split into the Jetta S, Jetta SE and Jetta SEL -- has never been on my list of faves. Not until this year, that is. So why, three long years after the current Jetta was introduced, am I finally raving about it? Check out my 2008 Volkswagen Jetta SE test drive to find out. -- Aaron Gold
Photo © Volkswagen
Aaron, I’ve read some comparisons between the Jetta and mid-sizers in the Accord class. The Jetta still did well and there was a bit more brand cachet amoung competitors. Was that a fair comparison in your opinion?
Down the road we’re looking for a small sedan to replace our CRV.Right now a VW is my favorite, while my wife is still pushing me towards a small M-B or BMW. My sole arguement would be gas mileage. However, the gas mileages of the 4dr GTI, Jetta GLI or even this one are not impressive. VW seems to be putting out what I consider to be truly exciting cars, but their MPG numbers leave a bit to be desired. VW…PLEASE put out a good turbo-diesel and help me out on this one!!!
Mike — That’s a hard one to answer. Size-wise, the Jetta clearly feels smaller, though it’s every bit as useful for a family of 4 as a mid-size car. And none of the mid-sizers really have the same driving character (except possibly VW’s own Passat). But in the end, yes, I’d compare it to a mid-size car like the Accord, if only because it’s just as well suited to doing what those cars do, even if the package is a bit smaller.
Don: Jetta TDI is supposed to be coming any day now…
Aaron
I’ll bee looking forward to that review, to be sure!