The engine matches up well with both automatic and manual transmissions although, duh, I had to give a hands down preference to the five-speed in traversing twisties in and about San Diego County during the introduction's test drive. It featured stiffer springs and shocks and a larger rear stabilizer bar. It probably gives the car a better grip on asphalt reality, but without comparison vehicles, it was hard to determine how much. Suffice to say, even when a curve came up a bit sharper than expected, the Jetta carved it neatly. Cruising is effortless for the turbo.
Interstate travel is as simple as it gets and no complaints.
Best of all, this is a Jetta. A hell of a nice little car with German feel and quality. If anything it's more fun because its smaller and lighter. But, truth be known, unless you're dealing with the GTI sportster, the Golf and Jetta handle remarkably alike and you might be discussing the difference between a sedan and a hatchback. Now there are four engines available for these snappy little cars.