And it's not just airbags that populate the Jetta's cabin. Its five-seat living space is well stocked with standard equipment

The Jetta performed very well in crash testing conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the U.S. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

including air conditioning, speed control, power windows and door locks, illuminated entry, manual tilt/telescopic steering, eight-way adjustable driver's seat, six-way adjustable passenger seat, heated front seats, AM/FM CD ten-speaker audio, speed sensitive wipers, outside temperature gauge, and security system with immobilizer.

For those hoping to simulate prestigious German marques with their assembled-in- Mexico Jetta, stand-alone options and option packages are available to do so. The new model can be upholstered in leather and

The impressive new Jetta improves upon the previous generation in most ways. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

equipped with all the premium trappings, including dual-zone climate control, power moonroof, multi-disc premium audio with steering wheel controls and a multi-function trip computer.

With or without the extras, the impressive new Jetta improves upon the previous generation in most ways. I say "most" because the jury is still deadlocked on whether its styling befits its German heritage, and on the expected reliability of a VW product, which has not been anything to brag about as of late. However, if my time behind the wheel is any indicator, the jury is leaning toward "not guilty" on both counts - assuming it's a Santa Maria jury in California.

Specifications (2.5):

• Price Range (MSRP): $24,975 - $32,200
• Body Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 150 hp, 170 lb-ft of torque, 2.5L (153 cu in), 25-valve, DOHC I-5
• Transmission: 5-spd manual (optional 6-spd auto with manual mode)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS with EDS
• Curb Weight: 1,465 kg (3,230 lbs)
• Seating Capacity: 5
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 453 L (16 cu ft)
• Fuel Economy (estimated city/hwy): 10.8 / 7.2 L/100 km
• Warranty (mo/km): 48/80,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Acura 1.7 EL, Mazda3, Subaru Impreza
• Web Site: www.vw.ca

Note: Additional larger photos are available in the photo album.