2006 Volkswagen Jetta Pros and Cons at TrueDelta: Owner Pros and Cons by

Exterior styling

Headlights and facia are cohesive and look expensive. I was ambivalent about the bling grill, but it works well with dark colors, like mine. Rear three-quarters view looks balanced, clean, and sporty.

Interior styling

Controls feel is great. Fit and finish of interior is terrific. Materials are top notch, except for a few pieces of crappy plastic, mostly out of direct view. Gauges are clear and the purple looks pleasant at night.

Powertrain performance

After a hint of lag, a lot of torque. DSG is amazingly crisp and lets you keep the engine on boil. Runs out of steam a little above 60, above 2500 rpm, but the quick downshifts cures that when the need arises.

Fuel economy

I get up to 33 on the highway--above 70mph. I consider that amazing, given the power.

Quietness

Engine note is technological and ultimately nothing special. It makes a clattering noise at low rpm.

Reliability & durability

A few annoying problems to date. Electrical system issues. Nothing in the powertrain or major subsystems.

Price or payments

It was ultimately pricey. It came right up to the A3 pricing, and could have gone straight through 31K with Navigation and other bits.