Although grateful for not incurring the opportunity to test the Jetta's safety-cage construction and airbag effectiveness,

While the quality gap compared to rivals is narrowing, the Jetta's interior is still superbly crafted. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

I can confirm the solidity and accuracy of the vehicle's assembly; something Volkswagen is reputed for. An aspect of VW reputation not as desirable is reliability. Volkswagen has had issues in this regard but now appears to be on the path to redemption, and judging from the fine performance and build quality of this week's tester, that path seems to be a short one indeed. Of course, comparing a relatively new car to one that is a year or two old might be where the difference lies.

Nevertheless,

The 2006 Jetta 2.0T midsize dimensions leave behind the previous model's compact designation. (Photo: Rob Rothwell, Canadian Auto Press)

the 2006 Jetta 2.0T is a terrific handling midsize sedan that leaves behind the previous model's compact designation. It entices with plenty of interior space, a voluminous trunk and decent fuel economy, but most notably, it cooks like a bedeviled Louisiana chef - hot and spicy.

A choice of three option packages enables buyers to stock the 2.0T just the way they like, from the no-nonsense comfort and convenience of the base 2.0T to the sublime delights of the Premium Luxury Leather Package. Regardless of how equipped, the 2006 Jetta 2.0T provides plenty of mighty-fine cooking heat.

Specifications (2.0T):

• Price Range (MSRP): $27,700 - $35,420 ($23,590 - $34,264 US)
• Type: 4-door sedan
• Layout: front engine, FWD
• Engine: 200-hp, 207 lb-ft of torque, 2.0L (122 cu in), 16-valve, DOHC, FSI, turbocharged I-4
• Transmission: 6-spd Tiptronic automatic DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox)
• Steering: electromechanical, power assisted, rack and pinion
• Brakes: four wheel disc brakes; 280 mm front 232 mm rear, ABS
• Dimensions (L/W/H/WB): 4,554 / 1,760 / 1,461 / 2,578 mm (179.3 / 69.3 / 57.5 / 101.5 in)
• Curb Weight: 1,520 kg (3,352 lbs)
• Cargo Volume (trunk): 500 L (17.7 cu-ft)
• Fuel Economy (EPA city/hwy/combined): 9.4 / 7.6 L/100 km (25 / 31 mpg)
• Fuel Type: premium unleaded
• Direct Competitors: Acura CSX / TSX, Chevrolet Malibu SS, Ford Focus ST, Honda Accord EX V6, Mazda3 GT / Mazda6 GT, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Nissan Spectra SE-R Spec V, Pontiac G6 GTP, Subaru Impreza / WRX, Toyota Corolla XRS, Volvo S40 T5
• Web Site: www.vw.ca