Volkswagen Jetta Sportwagen Articles

Redesigned 2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen Hits Showrooms
By : Jeffrey N. Ross
Date : 11/19/2009

Back in May, we reported on Volkswagen of America’s announcement that it would be switching the styling of the 2010 Jetta SportWagen to match the all-new Golf hatchback, and after seeing the car in person and in newly released press photos, I can honestly say the new car is much better looking. Although the Jetta SportWagen made its initial debut last year as a 2009 model, it used the same styling as the Rabbit and the Jetta sedan. In an attempt to capitalize on the new look of the all-new Golf, VW gave the SportWagen a cleaner, more unique appearance simply by changing altering the front end of the car.

For some reason, the North American buying public is still averse to the idea of station wagons, but the biggest complaint I had to the 2009 SportWagen I reviewed earlier this year was the front grill and headlamps. While the large headlamps and Audi-inspired chrome grille treatment looked good on the Rabbit, it didn’t translate very well onto the larger Jetta sedan and Jetta SportWagen. With a cleaner, more mature look for 2010, VW replaces the chrome shield with a painted section of fascia breaking up the narrow upper grille and lower air intakes. Like the new Golf, the headlights are inspired by the Europe-only VW Scirocco and help to give the car more attitude. The only changes made to the rear of the 2010 SportWagen are slightly darker taillight lenses.

Not that it was necessary, but VW also used the exterior refresh as an opportunity to change up the interior by giving it a cabin that matches 2010 Golf. The biggest changes are noticeable to the driver as the steering wheel, instrument gauge cluster and the center stack all received minor tweaks. Changes to the steering wheel and gauge cluster give the 2010 SportWagen a sportier appearance, while the new center stack design helps create a more ergonomic cabin with a redesigned HVAC control head. Overall, the biggest improvement is the new cluster with an enlarged information display that was made possible by moving the temperature and fuel gauges into the empty space at the bottom of the tachometer and speedometer. The end result is a cockpit that looks and feels like the more luxurious Volkswagen CC rather than an entry-level economy wagon. As far as amenities go, Bluetooth connectivity is now standard on SE and TDI trim levels, while the panoramic roof and touch-screen navigation system continue to be popular options.

One area of the new SportWagen that remained untouched was the proven drivetrain which means that the 2.5-liter gasoline inline-5 and 2.0-liter diesel inline-4 are still available. The SportWagen S and SE trim levels both come standard with the 170-horsepower gas engine with the base model using a five-speed manual transmission and the SE getting a six-speed automatic. The SportWagen TDI continues to use the fuel-efficient, 50-state legal diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual or VW’s six-speed dual-clutch DSG transmission. Fuel economy in the TDI is still rated up to an impressive 31 miles per gallon in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.

The redesigned 2010 VW Jetta SportWagen models have already started hitting showrooms with a starting MSRP of $19,265 which is $190 more than the 2009 model. Pricing for the 2010 SportWagen TDI increased by $440 up to $24,310.

Most Fuel Efficient Wagons for 2010
By : Jeff Wysaski
Date : 11/08/2009

Are you looking for the storage capacity of an SUV and the maneuverability of a sedan? Then chances are you're interested in buying a 2010 station wagon. Wagons have evolved over the years to deliver families a fun, smallish vehicle option that still excels at toting kids and cargo.

In comparison to larger haulers like SUVs and minivans, wagons tend to offer better fuel efficiency. A number of options for the new model year offer more than 30 mpg on the highway. The most fuel-efficient wagons for 2010 include:

2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI
(34 mpg combined)
Volkswagen's new crop of diesel engines has raised the bar when it comes to saving you money at the gas pump. Along with the VW Jetta Sedan, the 2010 VW Jetta SportWagen boasts a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that musters 140 horsepower. Paired with a manual transmission, the Jetta SportWagen glides along at 30 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway. Opt for the 6-speed manual transmission, and these numbers both drop by one mpg. If you're looking for a refined driving environment with plenty of room and a base price below $20,000, the 2010 Jetta Sportwagen should be on your shortlist.
2010 MINI Cooper Clubman
(31 mpg combined)
The 2010 MINI Cooper Clubman is one of the most compact wagons for the year. However, what the Clubman lacks in size, it makes up for in style and performance. The base 1.4-liter inline-four engine delivers 118 horsepower – plenty of zip considering the vehicle's small dimensions. Fuel efficiency is estimated at 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway for models with a manual transmission. With a base price of $20,450, the 2010 Clubman is a great wagon for those wanting a sporty drive and a design that stands out from the crowd.
2010 Chevrolet HHR
(26 mpg combined)
The 2010 Chevrolet HHR takes quirk in a different direction from the MINI Clubman. With a bit of retro modern design, the 2010 HHR starts out with a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine. This efficient power plant returns 22 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The HHR isn't as sporty as the Clubman, but provides just as much style and comfort. At a base price of $18,720, it is also one of the most affordable fuel-efficient wagons for 2010.
2010 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
(25 mpg combined)
Outfitted with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the 2010 VW Passat Wagon stands out as one of the most powerful options for the year. Despite its 200-horsepower output, the 2010 Passat Wagon manages to sip 22 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. The Passat is also one of the largest wagons on this list, making it a solid choice for those who need extra hauling capabilities. Base price comes in just above $28,000, but interior amenities, along with fit and finish, more than justify the price.
2010 Mazda MAZDA5
(24 mpg combined)
The 2010 Mazda5 delivers full-size proportions and three rows of seating. Base models come with a 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine tied to a 5-speed manual transmission. Netting 153 horsepower, the Mazda Mazda5 delivers up to 22 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway. If you like the look of a minivan, but want something with a more responsive drive, then the 2010 Mazda5 may be the compromise that fits your needs. Entry price for ownership is $17,995.
2010 Volvo V50
(24 mpg combined)
Near-luxury meets stylish design in the 2010 Volvo V50. The base 2.4-liter five-cylinder engine offers up 168 horsepower. Teamed with an automatic transmission, the 2010 V50 earns 21 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway. Cargo and passenger space is average for its vehicle class. Base price starts out at $28,700.
2010 Saab 9-3 Wagon
(24 mpg combined)
With a base price just above $30,000, the 2010 Saab 9-3 Wagon (sedan pictured) is the most expensive wagon on this list. However, if you want a sport-inspired wagon that delivers great handling and decent cargo space, then you can't do much better than the Saab 9-3. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine bursts with 210 horsepower. Fuel efficiency is rated at 21 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Unique styling and good crash test ratings further bolster the appeal of the 2010 9-3 Wagon.