The cabin is luxurious, with black and grey being the dominant shades – while a tinge of chrome adds a sense of exclusivity. A three-spoke leather wrapped multi-function steering wheel allows one to operate the audio controls and make calls via Bluetooth without having to move your hand away from the steering wheel. The climate control system works well, and keeps you well insulated from the torture of ever-rising temperatures. Having said that, many aspects of the Jetta are very similar to that of the Skoda Laura – for example the stereo and the climate control unit is shared between both models, which dampens the sense of individuality. Nevertheless, the MP3 compatible audio system available on the Jetta sounds brilliant, and could be controlled via a useful touch screen. The twin-partition glovebox enhances the utility quotient of the cabin, which already has an abundance of storage options in form of cubby holes, door pockets and cup holders. The seats are inviting, and offer the right amount of support in all the crucial areas. The rear offers ample leg space, which means that even a six-foot person can stretch out with ease. On the whole, the quality of plastics used within the cabin is absolutely supreme.

The engine in the Jetta now features common rail diesel technology, but I made an interesting observation about this 2.0 litre unit. In the Skoda Laura, the same engine feels a little more refined. The engine pumps out 108 horsepower, along with 250Nm of torque – making it much peppier when compared with the earlier PD unit. You do notice some turbo lag lower down in the rev range, which can make the Jetta a little sluggish while negotiating chock-a-block city traffic. Thankfully, the 5-speed tranny is smooth and precise, so you don’t mind working it on ocassion.



A really cool feature that the Jetta shares with the Laura is a shift indicator that’s incorporated within the instrument panel. The moment the engine senses that the next gear can be slotted in, it indicates the number of the gear with an arrow. It kind of reminds me of the cult game, Need for Speed – Most Wanted, which also provides a shift indicator allowing the perfect shift timing and control. This is the real world however, and to have a function such as this is definitely an added benefit for creating an easier driving environment, not to mention enhancing fuel efficiency.

As far as the ride and handling are concerned, the McPherson struts upfront and a 4-link suspension setup at rear dismiss small potholes with enormous ease – hardly transmitting any sensation of undulations into the cabin. The suspension is configured in such a way that it offers a perfect balance between handling and ride quality.

On the whole, the 2010 Jetta is a much better package in comparison to its predecessor. The 2.0 litre common rail diesel unit is enormously better than the 1.9 PD in every way – be it the linear power delivery, or the refinement – not to forget that it offers lower emissions and better fuel efficiency. An upgrade such as this is always welcome – however, a new model is expected in 2011, and, with its sharp styling, the upcoming Jetta might just change the way the game is currently played. We’re eagerly waiting to lay its hands on it. VW – launch it soon!