2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI First Drive

Specifications


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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.

MEET THE COMPETITION Acura TSX
Volvo S40

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Click to enlarge. 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Specifications The 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI’s key competitors are the Acura TSX, BMW 325i, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Lexus IS 250, Lincoln Zephyr, Mazda 6, MazdaSpeed 6, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Pontiac G6, Saab 9-3, Subaru Legacy GT, Toyota Camry, and Volvo S40.

Test Vehicle: 2006 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Price Range: $24,405 (including a $615 destination charge)
Engine Size and Type: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder with intercooler
Engine Horsepower: 200 hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm
Engine Torque: 207 lb.-ft. between 1,800 and 4,700 rpm
Transmission: Six-speed manual; Six-speed DSG automatic with manual shift feature
Curb Weight, lbs.: 3,308 Manual; 3,352 Automatic
EPA Fuel Economy (city/highway): 24/32 Manual; 25/31 Automatic
Observed Fuel Economy: 25.7
Length: 179.3 inches
Width: 70.1 inches
Wheelbase: 101.5 inches
Height: 57.4 inches
Legroom (front/rear): 41.2/35.4 inches
Headroom (front/rear): 38.5/37.2 inches
Max. Seating Capacity: 5
Max. Cargo Volume: 16 cu. ft.
Competitors: Acura TSX, Audi A4, BMW 325i, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, Jaguar X-Type, Lexus IS 250, Lincoln Zephyr, Mazda 6, MazdaSpeed 6, Mercury Milan, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Nissan Altima, Pontiac G6, Saab 9-3, Subaru WRX, Subaru Legacy GT, Toyota Camry, Volkswagen Passat, Volvo S40

Photos courtesy of Volkswagen of America

About Alan Rider
Alan Rider is a contributing editor for Autobytel.com and two of the country¹s largest AAA magazine publishing groups, where his automotive reviews and feature stories are read by more than 7 million members. He is also a contributing editor to the AAA Buyer¹s Guide to New Cars & Trucks and an award judge for the organization¹s annual Top Car awards. He lives with his wife and son in Northern California.