2009 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
02/13/2009
Shahed Hussain
As Volkswagen's highest volume car, the Jetta is in the midst of the hotly contested compact sedan segment along with the popular Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Ford Focus. The Jetta offers uniquely German road manners that set it apart from its popular Asian and domestic competition. For 2009, VW adds the Jetta TDI as the only diesel sedan in its class, offering fuel economy superior to any non-hybrid sedan.
Among the five Jetta models, the TDI is positioned below the luxurious SEL and the sporty GLI. Our tested Jetta TDI Loyal Edition had a base price of $22,440; the only option was the 6-speed DSG automatic transmission ($1100). Including the $650 destination charge, the total sticker price added up to $24,190. Available optional features include rear side airbags, iPod adapter, 17-inch alloy wheels, and DVD navigation system. The limited production TDI Loyal Edition includes a premium audio system and sunroof, but otherwise differs little from the standard Jetta TDI.
VW is known for its class-leading interiors, and the Jetta does not disappoint. Luxurious materials and superb panel fits are the envy of other manufacturers. Metallic trim spans the dash, door panels, console, and transmission shifter. Chrome-rimmed gauges include a 6,000 RPM tachometer and 160-MPH speedometer; in between nestle the fuel and coolant temperature gauges, as well as the trip computer screen. The leather-wrapped steering tilts/telescopes to accommodate different drivers; buttons for the audio system, trip computer, and Bluetooth phone are conveniently located on the spokes. The standard 6-CD/mp3/Sirius satellite audio system controls are within easy reach, with clearly marked knobs and buttons for maximum usability. The HVAC controls consist of rotary knobs and a few buttons with easily understood markings. Below the audio system head unit are rotary knobs for the seat heaters and the climate controls. Between the front seats are dual cupholders, next to the handbrake.
In the German tradition, the Jetta has firmly padded supportive front seats; the perforated V-Tex leatherette (vinyl) upholstery is an impressive simulation of actual cowhide. The driver's seat benefits from 8-way manual adjustments, except for power recline; both front seats include manual lumbar support. Despite multiple seat adjustments, the slippery vinyl upholstery and minimal lateral support from the flat bolsters detract from overall seat comfort. Both front and rear seats will accommodate sub-6 ft. passengers, but taller occupants may find headroom lacking. Transmission console-mounted ventilation ducts ensure that rear passengers remain comfortable. The front passenger seat and 60/40 split rear seats will fold flat to haul longer cargo.
While the previous 100-bhp 1.9L turbodiesel was barely adequate, the new direct injected 2.0L powerplant cranks out 140-bhp @ 4,000 RPM and an impressive 236 lb.-ft. from 1,750-2,500 RPM. Aside from some clatter and mild idle boom, this iron-block/aluminum head turbodiesel behaves like an exceptionally torque-laden gasoline engine, although turbo lag reveals itself with sluggish throttle response below about 1,500 RPM. In contrast, out on the highway, the 2.0L responds with impressive acceleration beyond the legal speed limit.
The turbodiesel sends power to the front wheels via a 6-speed manual or the optional 6-speed DSG Tiptronic automatic. The dual-clutch DSG transmission shifts as unobtrusively as a conventional torque converter automatic, a remarkable improvement from earlier versions that often suffered from abrupt gear engagement. Slide the shifter into "D" and the DSG will upshift early for optimum fuel economy. For more responsive acceleration, the transmission has a Sport shift mode; or the driver can manually select each of the six ratios in the full Tiptronic mode. Interestingly, both transmissions have two final drive ratios (4.12:1 & 3.04:1 for the DSG, 3.45:1 & 2.76:1 for the manual). The DSG is geared shorter overall (higher numerical ratio) than the manual; consequently the EPA ratings for the automatic (40/29 MPG city/hwy.) fall slightly below that of the manual (41/30 MPG city/hwy.). During our evaluation, we averaged 41 MPG in mostly highway driving, which essentially mirrors the EPA mileage. Although top speed is unlikely to be an issue, VW limits the Jetta TDI to 114 MPH (DSG) or 115 MPH (6-speed manual).
Underpinning the Jetta is a fully independent setup with MacPherson struts, coil springs, and stabilizer bar in front, while a multi-link setup with coil springs, dampers, and stabilizer bar comprise the rear suspension. Disc brakes are at all four corners with ABS, Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), Engine Braking Assist (EBA), and Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is standard. Michelin 205/55R16 all-season tires and 16-inch alloy wheels are standard; optional 17-inch alloy wheels are also available.
The Jetta rides with more composure than most compact sedans, due partially to its substantial curb weight (3,285 lbs.). Ample sound deadening ensures minimal road and wind noise are transmitted into the cabin. The hefty body structure also contributes to a sense of stability that is unlike most other cars in its class. Not surprisingly, the relatively heavy Jetta has very deliberate handling characteristics; this sedan just doesn't want to dance when a bend or switchback looms ahead. The suspension is tuned for comfort, with soft damping and spring rates, which results in significant body roll when cornering. Moderate understeer dominates the Jetta's handling, no matter what the speed. While this is certainly reassuring and appropriate for the typical Jetta buyer, we wish that the cornering reflexes were a little sharper.
Although the Jetta lineup has been largely unchanged since its introduction in 2005, the return of the TDI should bring back diesel customers to Volkswagen showrooms. With significantly better fuel economy relative to the Civic, Corolla, and Focus, the Jetta TDI is an obvious choice for long distance highway commuters. Against the Toyota Prius or Honda Insight, the Jetta TDI falls short in fuel consumption, but demands no performance or drivability compromises from its owner. Without sustained high fuel prices, diesels will never become more than a low volume segment in the US, but the Jetta TDI offers an affordable introduction to diesel frugality for Americans.
