2007 Volkswagen Jetta GLI Fahrenheit
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SPECS
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One of
five special Volkswagens available this year, the GLI Fahrenheit is a version
of the Jetta; in this case a very bright yellow: Fahrenheit Yellow, to be
exact. We loved it since yellow is one of our coveted colors. Other than the
yellow exterior, though, the Jetta Fahrenheit doesn't particularly stand out
among the other Jetta versions. Which doesn't mean a thing because all 1,200
of them will probably sell out.
There
are two Fahrenheit editions at VW: GLI sedan and GTI hatchback. Both are custom
painted. You'll find the Fahrenheit logo located below the right taillight and on the steering wheel, gearshift
and parking brake. Mechanically the same as the standard Jetta, the Fahrenheit
edition gets 18-inch wheels; an option on the standard Jetta models.
A compact
sedan, Jetta doesn't feel so compact, but then neither is its price. The Fahrenheit
edition drives like other Jettas, delivering 200 horse and 207 pounds-feet
of torque. Volkswagen's direct injection engine, coupled with a 2.0-liter
turbo four-cylinder is fun to drive, although you won't blow the doors off
the competition (Honda, for one). That turbo lag is still there, particularly
when first driving the Jetta, and it is unnerving when in traffic.
While
VW's sport seats fit the driver they are a bit stiff and on long trips aren't
very comfortable. There isn't much cushion. The lever for reclining the seat
is manual rather than power, and it can be cumbersome to reach. Seating is
standard leather in the Fahrenheit with multiple layers of stitching to add
a touch of luxury. Other features included on the Fahrenheit edition include
6 standard airbags with side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags for both
rows, a moonroof, and heated leather seats.
Options
on our test Jetta Fahrenheit included just the Sirius Satellite Radio with
13-months of service. This special edition Jetta comes equipped with 18-inch
wheels at no charge and the 6-speed manual transmission at no charge.
If you
must have automatic transmission it will cost you: $1,075 for VW's DSG automatic.
We would guess there aren't many coming off the assembly line with automatic.
After all, what would the purpose be? This is a sports car.
With Jetta's
unreliability record, we recommend caution. And if Consumer's Reports is any authority you pay attention to, they list Jetta under their "Used
Cars to Avoid" category. It is however, a fun car to drive with plenty of
pep and amenities you'll come to expect.
With all
the models to choose from, one shouldn't find it hard to get into a Jetta
of choice. We like the Fahrenheit for its sportiness and uniqueness. Other
versions will of course appeal to different drivers looking for a car that
fits their lifestyle.
Reviewed by Susan
Frissell, Womenwithwheels.com