2011 Volkswagen Jetta Revealed!

A larger, more upscale version of the Volkswagen Jetta was revealed on Monday for the 2011 model year. It will start nicely loaded at about $16,000 when it arrives in October.

The powertrain lineup will consist of four engines, including a 2.0-liter turbodiesel making 236 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, and the six-speed DSG automatic is optional.

The Jetta gets sleeker sheetmetal for the new model year, and it's fronted by trapezoidal headlights and a high-gloss black grille. The sides are marked by prominent wheel arches, which hold tires as large as 18 inches. Two-section taillights set off the back end of the car. Look closely at the shoulders, and the NCC concept is visible, while the mirrors borrow their appearance from the premium CC sedan, VW says.

Volkswagen
Another view of the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta.

The car will come in S, SE, SEL and TDI (diesel) models in the United States.

The updated Jetta measures 182.7 inches in length, a growth spurt of 3.5 inches over its predecessor. This helps improve the interior comfort, and legroom is now 38.1 inches, 2.6 inches more than before. The cabin also features a new steering wheel. In back is a 40/60 split rear seat.

Come Back Tuesday morning for the full report..

Here's a look at the interior of the new Jetta.

By Greg Migliore