2009 Volkswagen Jetta S

The 2009 Volkswagen Jetta S offers a spacious interior with such standard features as automatic power windows and door locks, cruise control, a three-spoke tilt/telescoping steering wheel, four cupholders, three power outlets, and an eight-speaker AM/FM audio system with an in-dash CD player and an MP3 input jack. The driver's seat features eight-way adjustment with power recline and manual lumbar support. The rear seats split 60/40 and fold flat, so owners can expand the cargo area.

A 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine producing 170 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque powers the '09 Jetta S. The engine links to either a five-speed manual transmission or an optional six-speed automatic, and pushes the Jetta S from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds with the manual shifter and 8.5 seconds with the automatic. Fuel economy averages 20/29 mpg with the automatic transmission and 21/30 with the manual. Performance-related features for the Jetta S include speed-sensitive steering, a dual exhaust system, an electronic stability program, traction control, and four-wheel antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution. Dual front, front side, and side-curtain airbags also come standard.

By R. Feeman