2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI - all-new and better than ever

By Isaac Bouchard
Contributing Automotive Writer

Volkswagen gambled a bit with the all-new Jetta; so far the more prosaic models haven't hit Americans' fancy. That may be set to change with the more enthusiast-oriented GLI.

Powered by the new 2-liter direct-injection turbo motor that will see duty throughout the VW/Audi empire, it shrugs off the extra mass that comes with the new body, offering smooth and linear shove throughout the engine's broad powerband. Turbo-lag is almost non-existent; the only sour note being a distinctly lackluster engine note. Interestingly enough, when this engine is in the platform-mate Audi A3, it sounds terrific. Go figure.

It's hooked up to possibly the best VW manual tranny ever, which boasts short, precise gear throws, a feelsome clutch, and pedals perfectly placed for the heel-toe dance. Also available as an option is the unique twin-clutch DSG paddleshift. This makes for a totally intoxicating driving experience; offering perfect-every-time automatic and manual shifts.

The GLI's chassis doesn't let its end of the bargain down. Even on the available 18" wheels and rubber-band tires the ride is decent over all but the worst pavement, and the damping is nigh on perfect. Modest lean in corners accurately translates g-loadings, yet the Jetta never looses composure. Disengage the traction control for a bit of lift-off oversteer fun. Brakes are decent, with good feedback and just the right amount of pedal travel. The only fly in the ointment is the electromechanical steering, which, while it eliminates torque-steer shenanigans, doesn't do much to inform the driver of available front-end grip.

This is almost compensated for by the grooviest steering wheel this side of an F1 car; flat-bottomed, with perfectly formed 9- and 3-o'clock handholds and remote controls for the audio and other systems.

The rest of the GLI's interior is also superior; the cabin architecture is modern and attractive, materials offer a high PQQ (Perceived Quality Quotient). The sports seats are amazing; tight enough to hold you in during G's-R-Us maneuvers, yet less restrictive than the chairs in last year's Golf R32 hotrod. And the Jetta finally has a back seat inhabitable by normal folk, not just Oompa-Loompa's. Now, VW, just add a halfway decent Hi-Fi with iPod capability.

The Jetta's new bodywork (think of it as son-of-Phaeton) draws mixed reviews. Many bystanders thought it too tall and narrow, and perched too high above its big wheels. This is alleviated to some degree by macho detailing, excellent paintwork, and tight panel gaps.

Despite its modest list of demerits, your reviewer would put it on the shortlist of most desirable $30k-ish sports sedans, for all 'round usability and driving pleasure. That said, the blood brother Audi A3 has more appeal (albeit at a price premium) and the Subaru Legacy GT turbo is more powerful, faster, just as composed and useful, and offers all-wheel drive.

COMPETITORS: Audi A3, Dodge SRT-4, Mazda6S (and MazdaSpeed6, coming soon), Mitsubishi Evo, Nissan Altima SE-R, Saab 9-3, Subaru Legacy GT and Impreza STI, Volvo S40 T5

HIGHS: Powertrain, interior, chassis composure, quality, DSG option

LOWS: Poor proportions and stance, stereo, steering feel.

VEHICLE PRICING: $24,406 base MSRP, not including destination charges, options and packages. Pricing may vary, see dealer for details.

FUEL ECONOMY: EPA ratings 24mpg City and 32mpg Highway; 21mpg overall observed.

For more information: http://www.vw.com

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