2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen San Diego CA

November 18, 2009   By Alison Lakin, Associate Editor and Brian Alexander, Content Editor

2009 Volkswagen Jetta Sport Wagon

2009 Volkswagen Jetta
Sport Wagon

DriverSide Overview
European wagons – they’re the chosen mode of transport for the utilitarian sophisticate, a stereotype so upper-class it comes off as a borderline compliment. But that stereotype also comes at a price. Euro wagons have been called a lot of things, from boring to luxurious to urbane depending on what circle you associate yourself with, but they’ve never been accused of being affordable. That is, aside from wagon variants of the Volkswagen Jetta. For the last few years, however, the Jetta wagon has been missing from the North American market. But that’s all changed with the introduction of the 2009 Jetta Sportwagen , and it’s coming back packing the goods. With a choice of four- and five-cylinder engines and advanced technology like an optional dual-clutch gearbox and navigation with premium sound, the Jetta Sportwagen presents a welcome alternative to its more expensive European brethren.








What's to Like
The buzzy five-cylinder engine offers an ideal blend of performance and fuel economy, benefitting from a broader powerband than most large-displacement four-cylinders of equal size. All 2009 VWs come with free scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles and roadside assistance for four years or 50,000 miles.

What's Not to Like
With all the technology VW has on offer, we were disappointed by the overly basic standard audio display. While rear-end cargo space is big-wagon large, rear legroom isn’t.

The Drive:
DriverSide Driving Impressions
At first, the Jetta delivers a somewhat mundane drive – a bit soft in the corners, the auto gearbox quick to shift in the interest of fuel economy. Dig a bit deeper however, and you’ll discover the Jetta’s got some character. Popping the automatic transmission into sport mode will keep the buzzy five-cylinder within its usable midrange, and the suspension is well-judged, offering up a confident stance in corners yet still managing to soak up imperfections in the road with ease. As with most Volkswagens, the steering is rock-solid and accurate. Brakes are a bit too squidgy to engage excessively solid stopping power, though emergency braking is sufficiently quick.

Engine and Drivetrain
The front-wheel drive Jetta S and SE models are powered by a 170 horsepower, 177 lb-ft 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine that can be mated to either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic. The SEL gets the same 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the GTI, which puts out 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. It is available with either a six-speed manual transmission or fast-shifting six-speed DSG dual clutch automatic.

Interesting Vehicle Features and Options
Features focused on comfort are abound in this compact car. ...

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