Volkswagen Jetta reviews

1997 Volkswagen Jetta Walkaround

The Jetta's smooth body and formal contours are distinctive, a descendant of Jettas past combined with the sophistication of the '90s. It's a functional look, albeit somewhat dated.

Jetta sedans are available in four models: the practical GL, the loaded GLS, the more powerful GLX and a new GT model. The four-cylinder Jetta GT provides the visual appeal of the GLX without the more expensive VR6 engine, which adds up to significant savings--about $5000.

Volkswagen's Golf family shares chassis, engines and much of its character with the Jetta lineup. The Golf line includes the sporty GTI, the more powerful GTI-VR6, the unique Cabrio convertible and the four-door Golf GL. With the exception of the Cabrio, the Golfs are hatchbacks, a configuration that provides the cargo-carrying versatility of a small station wagon.

The four-cylinder engines, including a new turbodiesel that will be available later in the year, provide performance that rates as no better than ordinary.

The standard Jetta/Golf engine is a responsive 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder that produces 115 hp. The cylinder head has been redesigned for 1997 for smoother, quieter operation.

Last year Volkswagen introduced the TDI (turbo direct injection) diesel engine, a $940 option on the Jetta and Golf. Small diesels are popular in Europe because they deliver exceptional fuel economy and tireless durability, but their performance is ho-hum.

The 2.8-liter VR6 is another story. It's technically a V6, but the angle of the vee is so narrow--just 15 degrees--that the cylinder banks share a common head. The result is a very compact powerplant that allows VW engineers to pack six cylinders in a four-cylinder engine bay. The VR6 generates 172 hp and a lot of low-rpm pulling power.

Regardless of the model or engine ordered, all Jettas and Golfs come standard with dual airbags, daytime running lights and child safety locks. Antilock brakes are optional.

In addition to the VR6 engine, the Jetta GLX and Golf GTI VR6 share a sports suspension and a high level of standard equipment, which includes electronic traction control, bigger brakes, wider 15-inch wheels with high-performance tires and a rear spoiler.