VW Addresses Jetta Complaints with New GLI Model that gets 200HP and Euro Suspension

When American buyers learned that the European market version of the Jetta came with better and more modern engines, improved materials and a four-link rear suspension system similar to that fitted to the Golf, they felt somewhat let down - even though these changes came with a hefty price increase for European consumers. Now, VW is trying to address some of these concerns with the presentation of the new Jetta GLI, which debuts today at the Chicago Auto Show.

The new model is the most differentiated Jetta GLI model ever. First of all, it is powered by Volkswagen's 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, generating 200 horsepower and a 207 lb.-ft. of torque at just 1,700 rpm. The four-cylinder unit is paired to a standard six speed manual gearbox or an optional dual-clutch DSG transmission. VW said that while EPA figures are not yet available, the Jetta GLI is expected to deliver 31 mpg highway with the manual and 32 mpg highway with the DSG.

The turbocharged engine isn't the only significant change over the standard Jettas as the GLI gets the European version's four-way independent rear suspension instead of the torsion beam setup found on the other N.A.-spec models. Furthermore, the GLI benefits from the Golf GTI's XDS cross differential system that helps prevent inside wheel spin during cornering, plus beefier four wheel disc brakes with floating red calipers.

On the outside, the GLI is distinguished by the 17- or 18-inch alloy rims, a newly styled front bumper, a honeycomb grille with silver accents, smoked taillights and twin exhaust outlets. Inside, the range-topping Jetta gets sport bucket seats with red stitching, a sport flat-bottom steering wheel with red stitching and additional standard features such as a 6.5-inch touch screen premium VIII radio with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.

Now, the question is will all those that complained about the standard Jettas pay the price for these upgrades as the new GLI has a starting MSRP of $23,495. Dig a little deeper in your pockets and $25,545 will get you the better equipped GLI Autobahn that adds 18-inch alloys, sunroof, dual zone climate control, heated V-Tex Leatherette seats and the Fender Premium Audio System. Another $900 for a grand total of $26,445 will get you the Jetta GLI Autobahn with an RNS-315 navigation system and keyless access with push-button start technology.

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VW Releases UK Pricing for New Jetta Saloon, Available with Turbocharged Petrol and Diesel Engines

Today, Volkswagen announced UK pricing information for its new Jetta sedan that is available to order now, with first customer deliveries due in May. In Europe, the Jetta is offered exclusively with turbocharged petrol and diesel engines with on-the-road prices starting from £16,960 (US$27,350) for the entry-level S 1.4-litre TSI 122HP model and top out at £22,320 ($35,990) for the Sport 2.0-litre TDI 140HP with a DSG transmission.

There are three trim levels to choose from (S, SE and Sport), with all models fitted with air conditioning, an MP3 compatible CD stereo, six airbags, ABS, Electronic Stabilisation Programme (ESP), an alarm and folding rear seats as standard.

Powering the Jetta is a range of TSI petrol and TDI diesel engines. Currently, two petrol engines are offered, 1.4-liter TSI with 122-horses and a twincharged 1.4-litre TSI unit developing 160HP.

The diesel lineup starts with a 105HP 1.6-litre TDI engine equipped with BlueMotion Technology features including Start/Stop and battery regeneration, that returns 67.3 mpg UK (56 mpg US) on the combined cycle while emitting 109 g/km of CO2. A 2.0-litre TDI engine developing 140HP and returning 58.9 mpg UK combined is also available.

The 1.6-litre TDI and the 1.4-litre TSI 160 HP engines can be specified with the option of a seven-speed DSG gearbox, while the 2.0-litre TDI is available with a six-speed DSG transmission.

We'll remind you that the European Jetta is more upscale than its American counterpart featuring higher-quality and softer materials inside plus a four-link rear suspension system similar to that fitted to the Golf.

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Chrysler and Volkswagen Issue Massive Recalls on Separate Issues

Chrysler and Volkswagen have issued massive recalls, affecting a combined total of almost 600,000 vehicles. The American automaker is recalling 367,350-2008MY Chrysler Town and Country/Dodge Caravan MPVs, while Wolfsburg’s finest will notify 228,236 owners of Golf, Jetta sedan, Jetta Sportwagen, New Beetle and Rabbit models, manufactured between 2006 and 2010 that their vehicles are being called in.

According to the NHTSA report, certain variants of the Chrysler-built people carriers may experience a water leak at the heating and air conditioner drain grommet, which, eventually, can lead to inadvertently deployed airbags.

Chrysler dealers will replace the faulty part free of charge, starting from February 2011. Owners may contact the automaker at 1-888-327-4236.

The recalled Jetta, Jetta Sportwagen, Golf and Rabbit models may have a small plastic tab on the windshield washer fluid reservoir that may chafe against a fuel supply line. New Beetles equipped with the 2.5-liter engine may have a fastening clamp on a hydraulic hose that may also chafe against a fuel supply line. The worst-case scenario is that the affected vehicles can catch on fire, due to a potential fuel leak.

Depending on the model, Volkswagen service personnel will either remove the plastic tab from the washer fluid reservoir or adjust the fastening clamp’s position.

The safety recall is expected to begin on or before January 31, 2011. The German manufacturer can be contacted at 1-800-822-8987.

By Csaba Daradics

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H&R puts a little backbone into the New 2011 VW Jetta VI

Suspension aficionados H&R have gotten their hands on the new Volkswagen Jetta 2.5 and decided to give it a once-over with some low-key modifications. After the Jetta arrived at H&R's US headquarters, the first pieces to get the ax were the springs (obviously).

Now, the brand new Jetta VI rides 1.3 inches lower thanks to a set of Sport springs in order to help the small sedan handle a bit better. The next items to go were the rims, which were replaced with 19x8.5 O.Z. Superturismo LM wheels (and TRAK + wheel spacers) to complement the car's handling and appearance.

While the 19's are about a size too large for a factory option, methinks a set of 18s in the same style would make for an interesting factory option. Behind the 19s are 14.4-inch cross-drilled Brembo rotors with 4-piston Monobloc grabbers that round out a nice street performance package. There's also a Vibrant Performance exhaust system as an auditory bonus.

The rest of the appearance add-ons - other than the vinyl - are sourced straight from VW and include a lower body kit and spoiler. Unlike many SEMA cars, H&R seems to have delivered a nice-looking, streetable package that should give the latest Jetta an extra injection of fun without killing your warranty or your wallet.

By Phil Alex

Source: H&R

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