Used 2008 Volkswagen Jetta for Sale near Washington, DC
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Overview
In an attempt to catch up to the selling power of the Civic and the Corolla, Volkswagen gave its Jetta midsize sedan a makeover in 2008. Leaving the 200-hp, 2.0-liter turbo inline-four engine to the GLI, the 2008 Volkswagen Jetta boosts power in its 2.5-liter inline five, adding 20 to achieve 170 hp and 177 ft-lbs of torque. Transmission choices range from the standard 5-speed manual to an optional 6-speed automatic (the SEL trim comes only with the automatic). The inline five is also available in a low-emissions PZEV version. However, drivers complain of the disappointing 21/29 mpg.
Now divided into three trims (S, SE, and SEL), the front-wheel-drive sedan gets a few more optional features at the same time that it ditches some standard equipment. Gone are the real leather seats in the SE and SEL (replaced by leatherette), automatic climate control, and HomeLink garage opener. New are optional 17-inch alloy wheels (standard on the SEL) and a sunroof, standard on SE and SEL and optional for the base S. A two-way power reclining driver's seat is newly standard across the lineup. The sedan seats four in two rows, with 60/40 split-folding rear seats that feature an armrest/trunk-passthrough. Owners love the spacious 16-cubic-foot trunk, but feel interior compartments and consoles could hold more.
The base S trim starts out with full power features, cruise control, and a CD/MP3 player with an input jack stuck inconveniently in the glovebox. Moving up to the SE gets you a sunroof, heated seats, leather trim, a fold-flat passenger seat, and a 6-CD player. The upscale SEL adds a trip computer, upgraded sound system, and wheel-mounted audio controls. The 2008 Jetta performs well in crash tests, earning top marks. All trims come equipped with ABS brakes and both dual front-side and side curtain airbags for the front row. Rear side curtain airbags are optional. Stability control is standard on SE and SEL trims.
Overall, drivers are pleased with the refined and smooth ride of the 2008 Jetta, and appreciate the extra power that makes time spent behind the wheel more fun. A large trunk, solid safety profile, and features such as satellite radio and heated seats also warm drivers' hearts. Criticisms focus on the boring exterior and reliability.
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4.7 Overall rating
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Cory S
Reviewed a 2008 Volkswagen S on Aug 26, 2008
This car is absolutely amazing. It is a great and fun car to drive as an everyday driver, or even for the racing scene it is a great car. Handles nicely and can be customized in many different ways. The cost is descent too, its only around 18k. Good price for a brand new car. The interior of the car is just as amazing as the exterior of the car. Its sleek clean just good quality German engineering. Only downside is that i don't have enough money to fully deck it out the way i want it yet.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2008 Volkswagen Jetta on Feb 23, 2010
I thought I would never buy a four cylinder again until I came across my '08 2.0 turbo charged Wolfsburg Jetta. I love the acceleration response and handling. Sport mode really seems to haul. The only issue I've had so far is the mechatronic unit which controls the transmission and breaking. After about 20K miles my car would stutter at stops and starts. It was annoying. VW was awesome about it though. They gave me a long term rental (paid for by them) and then they extended the warranty on this part from 36,000 miles to 100,000 miles. Since it's been fixed it runs like a dream. It's very responsive and handles great. I had a little trouble with the stock Conti tires in the winter but I bought some bridgestone blizzaks with 16" wheels and now I fly around everyone even when it's snowing here in Michigan. The interior and exterior are sweet too. And the sound system is better then any aftermarket system I've put in in the past (including my jeep with infinities and subs). It is one fine ride.
Matthew E
Reviewed a 2008 Volkswagen SE on Jan 25, 2010
Performance: Good for a drivers car. It is faster than most cars out there, that is for sure. You can also trust its brakes and handling more than others. Appearance: It is a gorgeous car in my eyes. The shape is designed well, and the interior is wonderfully laid out. Cost of Ownership: Parts are premium compared to cheaper American cars, but I am willing to bet my driving habits would have killed another dealer's gearbox. Fun Factor: Absolutely wonderful. Tiptronic is a godsend for a daily driver car that has a driver looking to have fun. Build Quality: It's German.
Anonymous
Reviewed a 2008 Volkswagen Wolfsburg Edition on Apr 18, 2012
A good value for the money and after 4 years and almost 40k miles it has not needed out of warranty repairs. VW performed the DSG recall and all of the strange shifting has gone away. Easy on gas even though it requires premium fuel. Tried mid grade but it ran terrible so I had to go back to the expensive stuff.
2008 Volkswagen Jetta Trims
| Trim type | MSRP |
|---|---|
| Wolfsburg Edition | $20,875 |
| S | $16,990 |
| 2.0T | -- |
| 2.5 | -- |
| City Base | -- |
| SEL | $22,825 |
| SE | $19,760 |
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