New 2011 Volkswagen Jetta Lowers MSRP, Maintains Fuel Efficiency
The 2011 Volkswagen Jetta comes with an all-new design and lower initial asking price. While most of the vehicle's updates are seen as an improvement, a few sacrifices are made in an effort to make the Jetta more affordable. Learn what's new for the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta and why it deserves a test drive.
2011 Volkswagen Jetta Styling
Exterior styling on the Jetta receives a major overhaul for the new year. The changes provide VW fans with a wholly more modernized and refined curb appeal that is likely to be seen as a change for the better by most. With its clean lines and subtle elegance, Volkswagen has done a great job of improving the Jetta's unique personal identity. Given the price point, the Jetta is now perhaps the most upscale-looking model on the market for car shoppers on a budget.
Inside, previous VW owners may scowl at the number of cheap plastics found throughout the cabin. In an effort to make the Jetta more wallet-friendly, some liberties have been taken with the Jetta's previously stately interior construction. Despite this fact, the VW sedan still manages to pull off an overall refined feel thanks to a simple, albeit elegant interior layout.
The 2011 Jetta is three inches longer than the outgoing model - a fact that results in vastly improved interior cabin space. Both front and rear passengers enjoy a boost in comfort. Compared to other sedans, the Jetta offers one of the roomiest rear seats for the 2011 model year. In terms of cargo, the Jetta serves up a competitive 15.5 cubic feet of trunk space.
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2011 Volkswagen Jetta Performance
Engine options and driving dynamics have been reshuffled in favor of a reduced price. Thankfully, the new powertrains don't really degrade performance. In general, the 2011 Jetta offers confident handling and good acceleration. Base models come with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that was previously discontinued by VW. The rebirth results in a starting point of 115 horsepower for the vehicle. Upper trims come with the same powerplant found on 2010 models - a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that makes 170 horsepower.
Speed hounds will cheer at the return of the Jetta GLI, which comes with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that glides along at 200 horsepower. The 138-hp 2.0-liter TDI engine is also back.
For those worried about fuel efficiency, the TDI delivers near-hybrid efficiency with an estimated 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. Gas models offer as much as 24 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
Review full 2011 Volkswagen Jetta specifications.
2011 Volkswagen Jetta Safety
The 2011 VW Jetta comes standard with six airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes, tire pressure monitoring system and an Intelligent Crash Response System (ICRS). The ICRS is programmed to automatically initiate a number of safety responses once a collision is detected (such as shut off fuel supply and disconnect battery terminal from the alternator cable). The 2011 Jetta has yet to undergo crash tests from the NHTSA and IIHS.
2011 Volkswagen Jetta Prices
Base MSRP for the Jetta comes in around $15,000. This is nearly a $3,000 drop in pricing over last year. Base models come with such features as one-touch power windows, power locks, remote keyless entry, auxiliary input jack and outdoor temperature display. Available upgrades include Bluetooth, touchscreen sound system, sunroof and iPod connectivity. Add it all up, and the VW Jetta delivers good value for those who want an affordable car that slants towards refinement.
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