Technical Specifications
| Brand | Volkswagen |
| Model | Jetta |
| Generation | Jetta VI |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (170 Hp) Tiptronic |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (EPA) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (EPA) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 5700 rpm |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 4250 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CBTA, CBUA |
| Engine displacement | 2480 cm3 (151.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1398 kg (3082.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1911 kg (4213.03 lbs.) |
| Max load | 513 kg (1130.97 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4628 mm (182.2 in.) |
| Width | 1778 mm (70 in.) |
| Height | 1453 mm (57.2 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2651 mm (104.37 in.) |
| Front track | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1532 mm (60.31 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 139 mm (5.47 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Tiptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 287×25 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 272×10 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17 |
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic, produced between 2010 and 2014, represented Volkswagen’s effort to increase the Jetta’s appeal in the North American market. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it sat between the base 2.0L model and the more expensive TDI diesel and GLI performance variants. The Mk6 Jetta marked a shift from its European counterpart, being specifically designed with American preferences in mind – larger dimensions, a more spacious interior, and a focus on comfort. The 2.5L engine and Tiptronic transmission combination aimed to deliver a smooth and convenient driving experience, appealing to buyers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder engine, identified as either the CBTA or CBUA engine code depending on the production year and market. This engine is a naturally aspirated powerplant featuring multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The five-cylinder configuration, while less common than inline-four or V6 engines, was selected for its balance of smoothness and power delivery. The engine generates 170 horsepower at 5700 rpm and 177 lb-ft of torque at 4250 rpm.
The engine is coupled with a six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission. This transmission offers both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via the shift lever or steering wheel-mounted paddles (depending on the trim level). The Tiptronic system provides quicker shift times and a more engaging driving experience compared to a conventional automatic transmission. The transmission’s gear ratios are calibrated for a balance of fuel efficiency and acceleration, prioritizing comfortable cruising over sporty responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic provides a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration is sufficient for daily driving, with the 170 horsepower engine providing enough power for highway merging and passing. However, it doesn’t deliver the brisk acceleration of the GLI or the low-end torque of the TDI models. The Tiptronic transmission shifts smoothly, although it can occasionally feel hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the six-speed manual transmission available on other Jetta trims, the automatic version sacrifices some driver engagement and responsiveness. The overall driving experience is geared towards comfort and convenience, making it a suitable choice for commuters and families.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic was typically offered in several trim levels, including Trendline, Comfortline, and SEL. The base Trendline model included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a basic audio system, and steel wheels with wheel covers. The Comfortline trim added features like alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, cruise control, and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line SEL trim included premium features such as leather upholstery, a sunroof, and a navigation system. Optional extras available across the trim levels included a rear-view camera, a premium sound system, and various appearance packages.
Chassis & Braking
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic utilizes an independent McPherson strut suspension in the front and a torsion beam suspension in the rear. This suspension setup provides a comfortable ride quality, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. The front suspension incorporates a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs in the front and solid discs in the rear. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) are standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is a hydraulic power steering system, providing a responsive and predictable feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and user-friendly features. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the refinement and power of its competitors, and the Tiptronic transmission could feel sluggish at times. Compared to the Jetta TDI, the 2.5L model offered lower fuel economy but a lower initial purchase price. Against the Jetta GLI, it lacked the sporty handling and performance but provided a more comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The 2.5L Tiptronic appealed to buyers who prioritized comfort and convenience over performance and fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the 2.5L engine and Tiptronic transmission generally holding up well over time. Common issues include oil leaks, sensor failures, and occasional transmission glitches. However, these issues are typically not major and can be addressed with routine maintenance and repairs. On the used car market, the Jetta VI 2.5 Tiptronic remains a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable and practical sedan. Its affordability, spacious interior, and relatively good reliability make it a compelling option in the compact car segment.
