Vehicle safety data is provided by IIHS, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, an independent, nonprofit, scientific, and educational organization dedicated to reducing deaths and injuries on the nation's highways.
The 2010 Volkswagen Jetta sedan has changed little from 2009, as it prepares for a fresh start with a 2011 redesign. The Jetta SportWagen receives new styling this year that is reminiscent of the Golf.
Facing competition from the Honda Civic and Mazda3 in the compact sedan segment, the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is available in S, SE and SEL trim levels or diesel TDI and Sport Wagon variants. Three capable engine choices will have you jetting down the highway: a 140-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel; 170-horsepower, 2.5-liter inline-5, or 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter inline-4. Each can be coupled to a five- or six-speed manual, six-speed automatic or six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is incredibly fuel efficient, especially if you opt for the diesel TDI engine, which is compliant with emissions regulations in all 50 states. EPA estimated fuel economy ratings range between 20-30 mpg in the city and 29-41 mpg on the highway.
The 2010 Volkswagen Jetta rests on 16- or 17-inch wheels and offers a host of standard exterior amenities, including power heated mirrors, dual exhaust tips, daytime running lights and an optional sunroof. New interior upgrades on all models include the steering wheel, instrument clusters, climate controls, interior trim and Bluetooth capability. Adorned in either cloth or faux leather upholstery, the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta can seat up to five in front bucket seats and a 60/40-split folding rear seat.
The Jetta is generous with its standard interior offerings, including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, hand brake and shifter, heated front seats, cruise control, power windows and locks, and air conditioning with a pollen filter. A multimedia interface, MP3 capability, 10-speaker stereo and a navigation system are optional.
Volkswagen prides itself on safety, and the 2010 Jetta is no exception. A suite of standard safety technologies includes front side-impact and optional rear side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, an antilock braking system with brake-force distribution, an electronic stability system and traction control.
The 2010 Volkswagen Jetta compact sedan and Sport Wagon have much to offer, including outstanding fuel economy, three engine choices (including a clean diesel) and plenty of standard amenities inside and out.