Fuel economy aside, combining the new 2.5 I-5 powerplant with the smooth-shifting six-speed automatic

The console-mounted shift lever can be placed into a manual-mode shift gate should the desire to involve oneself in gear selection arise. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

transmission leads to a very satisfying powertrain, which propels the Jetta's front wheels without imposing the much-cursed bane of torque steer. The console-mounted shift lever can be placed into a manual-mode shift gate should the desire to involve oneself in gear selection arise. Well matched to such a desire is the Jetta's braking prowess and its spirited handling.

Freezing the Jetta to the tarmac is made simple with its standard equipment, four-wheel antilock disc brakes. These binders utilize Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA) to ensure a stomp on the pedal initiates a rapid, but easily- controlled, stop. Thanks to these advanced braking supplements, very little pedal effort is needed to securely stop the Jetta from any speed. Completing the spectre of electronic control aids is the

Freezing the Jetta to the tarmac is made simple with its standard equipment, four-wheel antilock disc brakes. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

availability of an Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) capable of helping correct under- and over-steer situations and preventing skidding.

The Jetta's completely revised, fully-independent suspension incorporates MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link setup out back, along with an anti-roll bar at each end. This apparatus is affixed to a much stiffer chassis than previously, which elevates the Jetta's admirable cornering and control thresholds to new heights. The sedan is quite "tossable," remaining stable and predictable through switchbacks and emergency maneuvers.