A nippy little number

Bigger doesn’t always necessarily mean better and the Volkswagen Jetta is proof that compact can mean cool.

It’s exterior is quintessentially German, classy and well put together. It has enough personality to keep things interesting and differentiate it from other models in its segment.

Inside is a comfortable and very straight-forward affair. The fully-loaded model I drove has leather seats and a touch-screen control panel in the centre stack to work the infotainment system.

The sound system in the model I drove was music to my ears, much better than my regular run around. It plays MP3 and WMA files and boasts an internal 6-disc CD changer plus output of 4x20 watts and eight loudspeakers, so it made a nice change to hear the base notes of my favourite tunes for a change.

Another feature I loved is the dual-climate air conditioning unit, which gives you the option of having one temperature for the passenger’s AC and a separate one for the driver, sheer genius!

The weather was a little too hot to try out the sunroof the day I took this model for a spin, but I imagine that during the kingdom’s cooler months, it will be a welcome addition.

The folding rear bench seat offers generous legroom at the back and the split-folding backrest features a centre armrest with two integrated cup holders, ideal for kids. There is also a through-loading facility to transport long pieces of luggage, which could also come in handy during the weekly trip to the supermarket.

Although the Jetta is quite a light car to drive, it holds its own on the road. The acceleration was decent considering the size of the engine and it handles well.

Under the bonnet is a 2-litre, 4-cylinder engine that delivers 115bhp, ensuring that you get where you’re going on time and in style.

Another noteworthy feature is the tiptronic gearbox, to the uninitiated this means that you have the option of switching from automatic to manual gear shifts without the hassle of using a clutch. In my experience, it makes the drive more engaging and fun when in manual mode.

I was also pleasantly surprised with the way this model handles around corners, it is a deceptively smooth operator.

Most of the infotainment functions can be controlled via the steering wheel-mounted controls, which is particularly useful when you’re trying to avoid being blindsided by some of the kingdom’s less patient drivers.

Luckily, in terms of safety, this model delivers everything you could want from a family car. Front and side airbags for the driver and front passenger and curtain airbags for the first and second row of seats provide optimum occupant protection. In the event of a collision the airbags are triggered within milliseconds.

All-in-all this is a nippy little number that is sure to be popular with families across the kingdom.

Prices start from BD5,990 with value package of free three years / 45,000km service package, three years roadside assistance, five years warranty unlimited mileage and 12 years warranty against rust perforation.

For more information contact 17459977.