2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI First Drive

Model Mix


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TO THE POINT What’s New? The performance-oriented 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI gets a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a choice between two excellent transmissions, beefed-up suspension bits, 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, and several important interior tweaks over the standard Jetta 2.5.
Selling Points: Excellent drivetrain and sport-tuned suspension, and attractive, well laid-out interior, a roomier back seat and perfectly sculpted race car-style steering wheel.
Deal Breakers: The driving position may not suit everyone, and the ride may be too firm for some.
Our Advice: If you’re looking for an affordable sports sedan, the 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI deserves your strong consideration.

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Click to enlarge. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Model Mix The 2006 Jetta GLI gets a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a choice between two excellent transmissions, beefed-up suspension bits, 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, and several important interior tweaks.

While the 2006 Volkswagen Jetta is a fifth-generation model, this is only the fourth incarnation of the sporty GLI. Like the rest of the Jetta line-up, it’s grown an inch in height and width and six inches in length, and rides on a wheelbase that’s been stretched by two inches. Most of the additional three cubic feet of interior room created by this growth spurt went to the back seat, making this the most four passenger-friendly Jetta yet.

As the performance-oriented model of the Jetta line-up, the new GLI jettisons the previous generation’s V6 in favor of a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Two excellent transmissions, beefed-up suspension bits, 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, and several important interior tweaks round out the upgrades.

The result is a total package that transforms what might in its other variations might be considered a very nice “economy” sedan into an engaging vehicle that can put a smile on the face of anyone for whom driving a car is a pursuit to be actively enjoyed rather than passively tolerated.