Volkswagen introduces the new Jetta in the US

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Of all the European brand saloons in America, the Jetta is the most successful. What’s more: with 9.6 million units sold, it is a world bestseller. Now, there is a new generation Jetta. Larger and more comfortable, sustainable and dynamic – with entirely new styling. As a tribute to the US market, in June Volkswagen introduced the new model in a world premiere at New York’s Times Square. Volkswagen is also showing its loyalty to America in its choice of location for the successful model’s international driving presentation – it is being held on the West Coast in San Francisco. The sixth generation Jetta will begin its market introduction phase in the heart of California.

The saloon – developed in Germany and built in Mexico – makes great strides forward in both concept and styling. Never before was a Jetta this large. The new model is 182.7 inches long in the US version and 4.64 metres long in the European version, 57.1 inches (1.45 metres) tall and 70.1 inches (1.78 metres) wide. This makes the Volkswagen 3.54 inches (9 centimetres) longer than the previous model. The interplay of its exterior dimensions generates a powerful ratio of proportions. In parallel, the new Volkswagen “design DNA” sharpens its style. This has resulted in clear precise lines and athletically muscular surfaces, which give the saloon an image of timeless elegance and dynamic styling.

Designers and engineers have also crafted the interior right down to the last detail; now, the five-seater’s quality and perfection in details clearly go beyond class boundaries. The extended wheelbase of the five-seat Jetta has enabled a rear seating layout that is significantly more comfortable. Compared to the previous model, legroom has now increased by 2.6 inches (6.7 cm) to 38.1 inches (96.7 cm).

German engineering is the key word that captures the attention of many customers in the USA. German engineering and craftsmanship reflect the highest level of quality and efficient technology. The new Jetta is a prime example; a look at its range of engines (77 kW / 105 PS to 147 kW / 200 PS) makes this abundantly clear: As a turbodiesel with the latest common rail direct injection, it sets standards in fuel economy. The US version with a 103 kW / 140 PS TDI Clean Diesel (conforming to the BIN 5 emissions standard) attains a top fuel economy of 42 mpg Highway (combined cycle: 34 mpg); this makes the Jetta one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles on the market. In Europe, Volkswagen will be introducing a 77 kW / 105 PS engine as its smallest TDI in 2011. Its fuel economy in the BlueMotion Technology version: a sensational 4.2 l/100 km – a best value for a saloon in the 4.6 metre class.

Volkswagen has systematically tailored its US equipment versions (S, SE, SEL, TDI and GLI) to the wishes of American car drivers, and has developed one of the most attractive saloons in its class. The already well-equipped base version will launch at prices starting at 15,995 US dollars (European prices will be announced for the Jetta Trendline, Comfortline and Highline when ordering begins in individual countries). In parallel, Volkswagen has designed a second version of the safety chassis specifically for America.

By 2018, Volkswagen of America aims to triple its annual sales volume to about 800,000 vehicles between the East and West coasts. The new Jetta will play a key role here. Today, Jettas are already being sold in the USA at a rate of up to 110,000 units annually, and Volkswagen intends to grow this figure. One of its recipes for success: a clear focus on the customer and not just on the competition. That is what has made Volkswagen unique among high-volume carmakers, ever since the days when Ferdinand Porsche built the Beetle.

The Jetta takes this philosophy into the future with its excellent fuel economy and a comprehensive safety concept. ESP and a tyre pressure monitoring system are standard features in this car, and the previous model was already named “Top Safety Pick” in crash testing by the US organisation IIHS. Along with its optimal occupant crash safety, the car has further advanced pedestrian safety features as well. The workmanship quality is pioneering. The new Jetta addresses the automotive challenges of our time better than the vast majority of the competition – with a remarkably comfortable interior, a stylish and powerful design and maximum efficiency.

Source: VW (press release/media site)