We’ve been anxious to get behind the wheel of Volkswagen’s new Jetta station wagon. We were hoping that this smallest VW wagon would give us the best of both worlds – affordability along with European styling.
Affordability turned out to be the main issue with our top-of-the-line 2001 Jetta GLX wagon. It had a base price of $25,400 and a couple of options, including an $875 four-speed automatic transmission. That brought the bottom line to $27,425.
Yes, you get a lot in this compact package. But the main question is why would you spend all that money when you can get a decently equipped version of the bigger VW Passat wagon for essentially the same price?
She: I wonder if we’ll fight less in this column. Usually we’re sitting side by side when we put it together, but you’re stranded in Germany because of the airport closings and terrorism, and we’re writing this one via e-mail. Maybe you’ll be nicer to me because you’re almost 5,000 miles away. I’ll tell you right now, I’m giving the Jetta wagon three stars. It’s a fine vehicle, but just too expensive for a compact wagon.
He: Gee, I hate to admit it, but I agree for a change. I told you after I drove the Jetta that the Passat makes more sense. It starts at $22,250 for a GLS 1.8 T wagon. The Passat wagon is roomier and better equipped, with things like standard side curtain air bags, air conditioning and anti-lock brakes. Granted, the Passat GLX model can soar to $31,835 if you want the 4Motion all-wheel drive, too. But I think the Passat wagon is roomier and a better value. It will make more sense to most families than the cramped Jetta.
She: Even though it’s small, I was intrigued by the Jetta wagon’s cargo area. It’s so cleverly designed. The whole floor folds up to reveal a deep storage area and three shallow bins. You hold up the floor with a little strut like you have on a car’s hood. It’s easier to load stuff. I loved that feature. There’s also a tonneau cover to hide things you store on top of the floor and two side bins built into the walls. One holds a first-aid kit with a fluorescent orange emergency vest and the other has a folding emergency orange triangle you can set up outside the vehicle in case of trouble. The rear seat has three grocery bag hooks. In defense of the Jetta, with the seats down, it has almost as much cargo room as you get in a Passat and more than some of the competition, including the Audi A4 Avant.
He: The GLX has a very aggressive feel, thanks to the 2.8-liter V-6 engine which makes 174 horsepower. VW says it can hit 0-60 in about eight seconds. It’s got a lot of muscle and performs just fine on the highway. I would recommend the $600 optional sport suspension, an essential upgrade for the softly sprung Jetta. It comes bundled with 17-inch alloy wheels, which really dress up this five-passenger German import.
She: VW lovers ought to be quite taken with the looks of the Jetta wagon. It’s got a nice contemporary shape that’s not too jelly-beany. The flared wheel arches give it some definition and in typical quirky VW fashion, our test vehicle came in an unexpected color: Blue Lagoon. The color drew a lot of comments from people. It’s amazing how a little paint can add to the personality of these Euro wagons.
He: Another quirk that I couldn’t figure out are the two outside temperature readouts – one between the regular gauges and the other on the climate-control panel. But VW did a good job on safety features. Families should appreciate the standard safety items on the Jetta, which include anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights, four air bags and height-adjustable front belts.
She: The Jetta wagon is one of those terrific little vehicles that you slide into and feel right at home. The cabin, all done in black and beige, looks sharp. The controls make sense and the visibility is good. But the people in the rear won’t be that thrilled. No cup holders. No vents. And no real room three adults. I was also surprised that the CD player is optional even on this most expensive model. I know you’re going to get in the last word, so I’ll just say I miss you and get home soon.
He: If only VW made an amphibious model …
2001 VW Jetta GLX Wagon
Anita’s rating: Above average
Paul’s rating: Above average
Likes: Solid VW quality. Well-designed cargo area. Muscular 2.8-liter VR6. GLX extras like rain-sensing wipers, power sunroof, leather. Solid standard safety features, including anti-lock brakes, side air bags, height-adjustable front belts. Contemporary styling with fun touches like bright blue exterior on our test vehicle. $600 17-inch alloy wheels with sport suspension an essential option. Good visibility.
Dislikes: Affordability an issue – GLX model is as expensive as bigger Passat wagon. CD player is optional. Rear seat has no cupholders or vents. Cupholders in front need work, especially ones inside glove box. Rear headrests block visibility and have to be removed to fold seat flat. Overkill in weird ways; why are there two outside temperature gauges?
Type: Front-engine, front-wheel drive, five-passenger station wagon.
Price: Base, $25,400; as tested, $27,425 (inc. $550 destination charge).
Engine: 2.8-liter VR6 174 hp; 181 lbs-ft torque.
Fuel economy: 19 city/ 26 highway.
12-month insurance cost, estimated by AAA Michigan (Rates may be higher or lower depending on coverage and driving record.): $1,202.
Where built: Germany.
