The Jetta has had its name changed a lot over the years. Originally it was known as - the Jetta - then it was the Vento, and in more recent years the Bora. The Jetta returned in 2006 and it looks and drives better than ever. It’s basically a saloon version of the Golf, which is no bad thing, and it has the familiar Volkswagen family face and the typically understated styling. In terms of class, it sits somewhere between the Golf and the Passat. It’s bigger than previous incarnations, with news panels and a longer wheelbase. They’ve made the boot a bit smaller, although it’s still a good size, and this means there’s more leg room for the passengers in the back. The cabin looks well; there’s plenty of kit, a top quality dash, and it’s all user-friendly. On the road, the Jetta is easy to manoeuvre. Despite its saloon dimensions, the handling is excellent, and the steering is sharp. Visibility all-round is excellent and the driving position is spot on.

•  Make sure that the necessary recall work was carried out

•  Engine line-up is really good, some really efficient ones to choose from

•  The price tag is fairly reasonable and running costs are surprisingly low

•  Acres of space in the cabin. Boot space is impressive too

•  It is good to drive, it handles well and has sharp steering

•  It just doesn’t hold its value as well as the Golf