After redesigning the Jetta a year earlier, Volkswagen introduced two new models of its popular family sedan for 2006. The high-end Jetta 20T featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that pumped out 200 horsepower. It was linked to a six-speed manual transmission, which was standard. Other standard features included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, a sunroof, a CD player, anti-lock brakes, cruise control, traction control, and stability control.

Also new was a high-end Jetta GLI, which came with the same engine and transmission as the 20T, but added a sport package that included high-intensity xenon headlights, sport bucket seats, a tighter suspension, and larger 17-inch wheels.

The base engine for the 2006 Jetta was a 150-horsepower, 2.5-liter five-cylinder powerplant, which was linked to a standard five-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic was optional. The base engine powered the Jetta 2.5L trim package, as well as a Value Edition Jetta, which came with a basic list of standard features that included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, dual airbags, anti-lock brakes, and traction control.

While drivers found the Jetta's new stying to be a bit bland, when compared to earlier models, most had nothing but kind words for the 2006 models. Features and amenities were considered to be generous, and many drivers were impressed with the car's performance, particularly the turbocharged models with the six-speed manual transmissions. On the negative side, some drivers pointed out that gas mileage could be better.