2012 Volkswagen Jetta

The 2012 Jetta has grown in size for the American market, and the Jetta’s various performance aspects have changed as well. One item that both vehicles still share is the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, which provides a turbocharged 200-horsepower and 207-pound-feet of torque.

The 2012 Jetta also sports some external changes that set it apart. The front-end features a sporty, honeycomb grille, which is split horizontally by the front bumper. The grille also has chrome accents, which is another detail that sets it apart from the matte black of its predecessor. On the inside, red stitching and a monochromatic color scheme have replaced the well-known plaid.

Specifications

The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta brings speed and agility to the open road with a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine that boasts a respectable 115-horsepower and 125-pound-feet of torque. With the turbocharged option, the Jetta gets an amazing 200-horsepower. The Jetta gets its nimble cornering from its McPherson struts, and rear twist beams with coil springs. It sports a five-speed manual transmission, and a base curb weight of 2804-lbs. Even more exciting is the fact that the Jetta gets an EPA-estimated 34-mpg.

Safety Features

Safety takes a front seat in the Jetta. Antilock brakes help prevent skidding when stopping on slick surfaces. An electronic stability system keeps the Jetta under control in tight cornering situations. The Jetta features front airbags, and side-impact airbags for the front seats and side-curtain airbags for the rears seats.

On the Inside

The interior of the Jetta features one of the largest rear seating areas of any compact vehicle. The backseat features a 60/40-split that folds down and allows the trunk space to extend into the rear of the vehicle. S models provide air-conditioning, power windows, and a four-speaker CD stereo. The SE models up the ante with simulated leather upholstery, floor mats, a center armrest for the rear seats, center console storage, heated seating in front, leather-wrapped steering wheel, iPod input, and optional satellite radio.

Pricing and Style

The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has a base price of around $15,350. Add more features and the price gets up to about $25,500. Exterior styling features an angular look with distinct lines that are a departure from the rounded designs. The rectangular headlights meld into either side of the grille, and the overall profile gives the Jetta a Spartan look reminiscent of Volvo and Audi. The vehicle comes standard with 15-inch wheels, available body-colored external side mirrors, and available moon roof.

Volkswagen has made some changes to the 2012 Jetta that some will love and some may be indifferent to. However, the overall look and feel of the new Jetta brings classic lines and clean styling to the forefront of compact sedan design.