Volkswagen Jetta: the history of the car from the very beginning
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Volkswagen Jetta: the history of the car from the very beginning

The Volkswagen Jetta is a compact family car produced by the German automaker Volkswagen since 1979. In 1974, Volkswagen was on the verge of bankruptcy as a result of declining sales of the then-produced Golf model, rising labor costs, and increased competition from Japanese automakers.

The history of the long evolution of the Volkswagen Jetta

The consumer market needed the introduction of new models that could improve the group's reputation and satisfy the demand for vehicles with more individual body design, elegance, safety features and quality. The Jetta was intended to replace the Golf. The external and internal content of the design of the model was addressed to conservative and picky customers in other countries, primarily the United States. Six generations of the car have different names from "Atlantic", "Fox", "Vento", "Bora" to Jetta City, GLI, Jetta, Clasico, Voyage and Sagitar.

Video: Volkswagen Jetta first generation

2011 Volkswagen Jetta NEW Official Video!

First generation Jetta MK1/Mark 1 (1979–1984)

Production of the MK1 began in August 1979. The factory in Wolfsburg produced the Jetta model. In other countries, the Mark 1 was known as the Volkswagen Atlantic and Volkswagen Fox. The 1979 Volkswagen slogan was in keeping with the spirit of the customers: "Da weiß man, was man hat" (I know what I own), representing a small family car.

The Jetta originally introduced an improved hatchback sibling to the Golf, which added a trunk with minor front end features and interior changes. The model was offered with a two- and four-door interior. Since the 1980 version, engineers have introduced changes to the design depending on consumer demand. Each subsequent generation of MK1 became larger and more powerful. The choice of petrol engines ranged from a 1,1-liter four-cylinder engine with 50 hp with., up to 1,8-liter 110 liters. With. The choice of diesel engine included a 1,6-liter engine with 50 hp. s., and a turbocharged version of the same engine, producing 68 hp. With.

For the more demanding US and Canadian markets, Volkswagen has been offering the Jetta GLI since 1984 with a 90 hp engine. with., fuel injection, 5-speed manual transmission, with sports suspension, including ventilated front disc brakes. Externally, the Jetta GLI featured an aerodynamic profile, plastic rear bumper, and GLI badging. The salon contained a leather 4-spoke steering wheel, three additional sensors on the center console, sports seats like the GTI.

Appearance and safety

The exterior of the Mark 1 was aimed at representing a higher class with a different price point, distinguishing it from the Golf. Aside from the huge rear luggage compartment, the main visual difference was a new grille and rectangular headlights, but for buyers it was still a Golf with a trunk that increased the length of the vehicle by 380 mm and the luggage compartment to 377 liters. In order to gain more significant success in the American and British markets, Volkswagen tried to change the hatchback body style to the more desirable and larger Jetta sedan. Thus, the model has become the best-selling and popular European car in the US, Canada and the UK.

Volkswagen Jetta became the first vehicle with an integrated passive safety system. The first generation cars were equipped with an "automatic" shoulder belt attached to the door. The idea was that the belt should always be fastened, in accordance with the safety requirement. By eliminating the use of a waist belt, the engineers designed a dashboard that prevented knee injury.

In crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Mark 1 received five stars out of five in a frontal collision at a speed of 56 km/h.

Overall rating

Criticisms focused on the level of noise coming from the engine, the uncomfortable placement of only two passengers in the rear seat, and the uncomfortable and non-ergonomic placement of the secondary switches. Users responded positively about the location of the main controls, sensors on the panel with a speedometer and climate control. The luggage compartment attracted particular attention, as the considerable storage space added to the sedan's practicality. In one test, the Jetta's trunk held the same amount of luggage as the more expensive Volkswagen Passat.

Video: Volkswagen Jetta first generation

Video: First generation Jetta

Second generation Jetta MK2 (1984–1992)

The second-generation Jetta became the most popular car in terms of both performance and price. Improvements Mk2 concerned the aerodynamics of the body, the ergonomics of the driver's seat. As before, there was a large luggage compartment, although the Jetta was 10 cm longer than the Golf. The car was available in two- and four-door form with a 1,7-liter 4-cylinder engine with 74 hp. With. Initially aimed at the family budget, the Mk2 model gained popularity among young drivers after installing a sixteen-valve 1,8-liter engine with a capacity of 90 hp. with., accelerating the car to 100 kilometers in 7.5 seconds.

Appearance

The second generation Jetta has become the most successful model from Volkswagen. Big, the model is enlarged in all directions and a roomy car for five people. In terms of suspension, the rubber dampers of the suspension mounts have been replaced to provide comfortable noise isolation. Minor changes to the exterior design made it possible to significantly improve the drag coefficient. To reduce noise and vibration, adjustments were made to the transmission. Among the innovations of the second generation, the on-board computer attracted the most attention. Since 1988, the second generation Jetta has been equipped with an electronic fuel injection system.

Security

The four-door Jetta received three out of five stars in a crash test conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, protecting the driver and passengers in a frontal collision of 56 km / h.

general review

Overall, the Jetta received positive reviews for its excellent handling, roomy interior, and pleasing braking in the front with disc and drum brakes in the rear. Additional soundproofing has reduced road noise. On the basis of the Jetta II, the automaker tried to develop a sports version of the Jetta, equipping the model with high-tech equipment of the time: anti-lock braking system, electric steering and air suspension, automatically lowering the car at speeds exceeding 120 km / h. A number of these functions were controlled by a computer.

Video: Volkswagen Jetta second generation

Video: Model Volkswagen Jetta MK2

Model: Volkswagen Jetta

Third generation Jetta MK3 (1992–1999)

During the production of the third generation Jetta, as part of the promotion of the model, the name was officially changed to Volkswagen Vento. The main reason for the renaming concerned the precedent for using wind names in car names. From the English Jet stream is a hurricane that brings significant destruction.

Exterior and interior modification

The design team made adjustments to improve aerodynamics. In the two-door model, the height was changed, which reduced the drag coefficient to 0,32. The main idea of ​​the model was to comply with world safety and environmental standards using recycled plastics, CFC-free air conditioning systems and heavy metal-free paints.

The interior of the Volkswagen Vento is equipped with two airbags. In a frontal crash test at 56 km / h, the MK3 received three out of five stars.

Laudatory reviews during the operation of the car concerned clear control and ride comfort. As in previous generations, the trunk had generous space. There were complaints about the lack of cup holders and the non-ergonomic layout of some of the controls in earlier versions of the MK3.

Fourth generation Jetta MK4 (1999–2006)

Production of the next fourth generation Jetta began in July 1999, keeping the windy trend in vehicle names. The MK4 is known as the Volkswagen Bora. Bora is a strong winter wind over the Adriatic coast. Stylistically, the car acquired rounded shapes and a vaulted roof, adding new light elements and modified body panels to the exterior.

For the first time, the body design is not identical to the Golf's younger brother. The wheelbase has been slightly expanded to accommodate two new internal combustion engines: a 1,8-liter turbo 4-cylinder and a 5-cylinder modification of the VR6 engine. The equipment of this generation car includes advanced options: windshield wipers with a rain sensor and automatic climate control. Designers did not change the suspension of the third generation.

Security and ratings

In the production of the fourth generation of vehicles, Volkswagen prioritized safety based on advanced technological processes such as highly mechanized presses, improved measuring methods and laser roof welding.

The MK4 received very good crash test scores, five out of five stars in a 56 km/h frontal impact and four out of five stars in a 62 km/h side impact mainly due to the side airbags. An important role in this was played by a high-tech active safety system, including electronic stability control ESP and traction control ASR.

Recognition went to Jetta for adequate handling and comfortable ride. The interior was well-received for its high level of quality materials and attention to detail. The disadvantage of the model is manifested in the ground clearance of the front bumper. With careless parking, the bumper cracked on the curb.

The basic equipment included such standard options as air conditioning, a trip computer and front power windows. Retractable cup holders are placed directly above the stereo radio, hiding the display and spilling drinks on it when awkwardly handled.

Fifth generation Jetta MK5 (2005–2011)

The fifth generation Jetta was introduced in Los Angeles on January 5, 2005. The interior of the cabin has increased by 65 mm compared to the fourth generation. One of the major changes is the introduction of independent rear suspension in the Jetta. The rear suspension design is nearly identical to that of the Ford Focus. Volkswagen hired engineers from Ford to develop the suspension on the Focus. The addition of a new chrome front grille has changed the exterior styling of the model, which includes as standard a compact yet powerful and fuel-efficient 1,4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with low fuel consumption and a six-speed DSG transmission. As a result of the changes, fuel consumption has decreased by 17% to 6,8 l/100 km.

The hull layout uses high-strength steel to provide double dynamic stiffness. As part of the safety enhancement, a front bumper shock absorber is used to soften the impact of a collision with a pedestrian, reducing the likelihood of injury. In addition, the design has acquired many active and passive safety systems: airbags on the side and in the rear seat, electronic stabilization with anti-slip regulation and brake assistant, including automatic climate control and electromechanical power steering.

In production of the fifth generation Jetta, a completely redesigned electrical system was introduced, reducing the number of wires and the likelihood of program failure.

In the safety analysis, the Jetta received an overall rating of "Good" in both front impact and side impact tests due to the implementation of effective side impact protection, allowing the VW Jetta to receive a maximum of 5 stars in crash tests.

The fifth-generation Volkswagen Jetta received generally positive reviews, thanks to its confident and well-controlled ride. The interior is quite attractive, made in soft plastic. The steering wheel and gear lever are covered in leather. Comfortable leatherette seats do not indulge in comfort, but the built-in seat heaters deliver a pleasant homely feeling. The interior of the Jetta is clearly not the best, but worthy for the price range.

Sixth generation Jetta MK6 (2010–Present)

On June 16, 2010, the sixth generation Volkswagen Jetta was announced. The new model is larger and cheaper than the previous Jetta. The car became a competitor to Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, allowing the model to enter the premium car market. The new Jetta is a refined, spacious and comfortable compact sedan. Potential buyers drew attention to the lack of noticeable improvements in the updated Jetta. But, in terms of passenger and cargo space and technology, the Jetta is doing well. Compared to the previous generation, the Jetta MK6 has a more spacious rear seat. Two touchscreen options from Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, including its own set of options, make the Jetta a favorite vehicle for gadget use. The sixth Jetta stands as one of the more compelling options in the premium segment, featuring a more sophisticated and fully independent rear suspension and a peppy and fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The interior of the cabin is equipped with a dashboard with soft plastic. The Volkswagen Jetta comes with new headlights and taillights, an interior upgrade, a suite of driver assistance systems such as blind-spot monitoring and a standard rear-view camera.

Car safety and driver ratings

In 2015, Jetta received the highest ratings from most of the key crash test agencies: 5 stars out of five. MK6 is recognized as one of the safest cars in its class.

The car's high marks are the result of years of VW development for the Jetta. Previously used technical improvements, completed in elite and sports models, become available in the basic configuration of the Jetta line. The multi-link rear suspension provides a smooth ride quality and pleasant handling, surprising with the benefits of disc brakes on all wheels.

Table: comparative characteristics of the Volkswagen Jetta model from the first to the sixth generation

GenerationfirstSecondThe thirdFourthFifthSixth
Wheelbase, mm240024702470251025802650
Length, mm427043854400438045544644
Width160016801690173017811778
Height, mm130014101430144014601450
Power unit
Petrol, l1,1 – 1,8 Feet1,3 – 2,0 Feet1,6 – 2,8 Feet1,4 – 2,8 Feet1,6 – 2,0 Feet1,2 – 2,0 Feet
Diesel, l1,61,61,91,91,92,0

Volkswagen Jetta 2017

The Volkswagen Jetta is a good modern car in many ways. The only thing about the Jetta model is the pursuit of excellence, expressed not only in improving technical characteristics, such as handling, safety, fuel economy, environmental compliance and competitive prices, but also in achieving quality attributes of a comfortable ride. The claim to perfection is reflected in the external features of the body, thin door gaps and guaranteed resistance to corrosion.

The long history of the formation of the model proves that the Jetta is destined to be one of the leaders in the family car segment, adopting all the technical innovations in terms of comfort and safety.

Technical innovation

Jetta is a classic sedan with clear and memorable proportions of the rear, large wheels, which, even in the basic configuration, are in perfect harmony with the streamlined silhouette and add external expressiveness. Thanks to them, Jetta looks sporty, but at the same time, elegant. The model's characteristic lower air intakes enhance the sporty impression.

To ensure better visibility of the track and an attractive appearance, Jetta is equipped with halogen headlights, slightly elongated, expanding at the edges. Their design is complemented by a radiator grill, making up one whole.

The main emphasis in the design of the Jetta is on safety and efficiency. All models are equipped with a turbocharged engine, combining excellent power with decent economy.

As standard, a rear-view camera is provided with the function of displaying a hidden zone behind the car on the display of the navigation system, clearly informing the driver of possible obstacles. When operating in densely populated cities, a parking assistant is provided, which notifies with sound about obstacles and visually displays the path of movement on the display. To help the driver, the option of full control of the traffic situation is available, allowing you to eliminate “blind spots” that complicate rebuilding in dense city traffic. The indicator in the rear-view mirrors gives the driver a signal about a possible obstacle.

The expansion of safety features has led developers to introduce a driver fatigue recognition function, improving road safety and a hill start assistant (anti-rollback system). Additional comfort elements include adaptive cruise control, which allows you to maintain a predetermined distance to the car in front, a collision warning function with automatic braking, rain sensors that activate windshield wipers heated by invisible threads.

The Jetta engine is based on a combination of low fuel consumption - 5,2 l / 100 km and excellent dynamics due to the turbocharged engine, accelerating to hundreds in 8,6 seconds.

The car is adapted for Russian roads and climate:

Design innovation

Volkswagen Jetta has retained the classic features of the sedan. Its good proportions give it a timeless elegance. Although the Jetta is classified as a compact family car, combining elegant style with sporty character, there is plenty of space for passengers and luggage. The design of the body and the precise drawing of details make up a memorable image that has been relevant for many years.

Comfort is one of the best aspects of the Volkswagen Jetta. The cabin allows you to use the vehicle on business class trips, in comfortable seats with many adjustments that provide increased comfort.

As standard, the instrument panel is equipped with round instruments from a sporty design. Air vents, light switches and other controls are chrome-plated, giving the interior an extra touch of luxury. The state-of-the-art in-flight infotainment system adds to the enjoyment of driving the Jetta, thanks to the convenient and intuitive layout of the levers and buttons.

The 2017 Jetta received the highest safety rating in crash testing, being Volkswagen's safety mark.

Video: 2017 Volkswagen Jetta

Diesel engine vs gasoline

If we talk about the differences in a nutshell, then the choice of engine type depends on the style and driving environment, since an ignorant technical specialist will not find an obvious difference in the structural arrangement of the engine inside the compartment and the design of its elements. A distinctive feature is the method of formation of the fuel mixture and its ignition. For the operation of a gasoline engine, the fuel mixture is prepared in the intake manifold, the process of its compression and ignition takes place in the cylinder. In a diesel engine, air is supplied to the cylinder, compressed under the influence of the piston, where diesel fuel is injected. When compressed, the air heats up, helping the diesel to self-ignite at high pressure, so the diesel engine must be able to withstand a large load from high pressure. It requires clean fuel to operate, the purification of which clogs the particulate filter when using low-quality diesel and on short trips.

A diesel engine produces more torque (tractive power) and has better fuel economy.

The most obvious disadvantage of a diesel engine is the need for an air turbine, pumps, filters and an intercooler to cool the air. The use of all components increases the cost of servicing diesel engines. The production of diesel parts requires high-tech and expensive parts.

Owner feedback

I bought a Volkswagen Jetta, comfortline equipment. Revised a lot of cars and still took it. I liked the smoothness of the ride, instant gear changes and agility with the DSG gearbox, ergonomics, comfort when landing, lateral seat support and pleasant sensations from the German car industry. Engine 1,4, gasoline, the interior does not warm up for long in winter, especially since I set autostart and put autoheat on the engine. In the first winter, the standard speakers began to wheeze, I replaced them with others, nothing fundamentally changed, apparently, a design feature. THAT the dealer with their spare parts - no problems. I drive mostly in the city - consumption is 9 liters per hundred in summer, 11-12 in winter, on highway 6 - 6,5. The maximum developed 198 km / h on the on-board computer, but somehow uncomfortable, but, in general, a comfortable speed of 130 - 140 km / h on the highway. For a little over 3 years there was no serious damage and the machine pleases. In general, I like it.

Liked the look. When I saw him, I immediately felt some very true dimension, comfort and even a hint of some kind of prosperity. Not premium, but not consumer goods either. In my opinion, this is the cutest of the Foltz family. Inside is a very thoughtful and comfortable interior. Big trunk. Folding seats allow you to transport length gauges. I drive relatively little, but it does not create problems for me at all. Only timely maintenance, and all. Worth your money. Advantages Reliable, economical (on the highway: 5,5; in the city with traffic jams-10, mixed mode-7,5 liters). Rulitsya very well and holds the road tenaciously. The steering wheel is adjustable in sufficient ranges. Therefore, short and tall will be comfortable. You don't get tired of driving. Salon is warm, warms up quickly in winter. Three-mode heated front seats. Dual zone climate control works great. Therefore, it is cool in summer. Fully galvanized body. Six airbags and 8 speakers are already in the base. The automatic transmission works smoothly. There are slight jolts when braking, somewhere around 2nd gear. Disadvantages I moved to it after Logan and immediately felt that the suspension was harsh. In my opinion, the painting could have been better, and then an awkward movement and a scratch. Parts and service from the dealer are expensive. For our Siberian conditions, the electric heating of the front glass would also be appropriate.

This is a classic non-killable car. Good, trouble-free, reliable and strong. For his age, the condition is more than good. Machine working, investment to a minimum. Moves briskly, cruising along the highway 130. Managed like a go-kart. Never let me down in winter. I have never stood with the hood open, it warns about breakdowns a month in advance. The body is in very good condition. With the exception of the last couple of years, garage storage. Changed the steering rack, suspension, carburetor, clutch, cylinder head gasket. There was an overhaul of the engine. Maintenance is inexpensive.

Volkswagen did not stop at the existing achievements in the production of the Jetta model. The concern's desire to preserve the ecological situation on Earth influenced the decision to produce environmentally friendly cars using alternative energy sources such as electricity and biofuels.

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