I was at DH VW today, getting my sled serviced, and struck up a conversation that led to me landing a set of keys to a Jetta V. The only thing I was told is, "Drive it, and then tell me what you think."
I drove a 2.5L **5 cyl 6spd auto, w/ wheel covers, and the base interior (Which is leatherette, no more cloth). This is the ENTRY level Jetta.
The car was in an uphill battle if it were to win me, a turbo loving tuner who only sees a corollas rear , and an Accords flanks....and loves all things that spin tires and hiss when you shift.

Its tranny being a 6 spd keeps you in power. Only 150 hp, but it gets it down FAR better than the 2.0 on a 5 spd. Its like the early 1.8Ts honestly. The car is MUCH roomier, even though mathamatically it isnt by much. It steers w/ confidence that you are feeling the road, in a cleaned up state, and has a self straightening system so heavily sloped roads wont pull the car to the side. Cool. I thought it has very adequate brakes, especially on a wet day like today.. The suspension is good, atleast equal to an OEM Jetta IV...needs sways and drop springs IMO....But all cars need this. The stereo rocks in base form better than a monsoon ever did, and the HVAC works like a wind tunnel.
In conclusion--
I looked at this car as ugly, and frumpy, and a representation of all I disagree with.....until I drove it. Its like an average chic you talk to then realize shes so cool, and from then on shes strangly hot. Thats this car. It isnt my idea of sexy, it doesnt make me wanna rush to tune one, but this IS the base model. It is a car you need to drive, if you are a true VW enthusiast, you need to see for yourself. I will be anxious to drive the 2.0T (FSI) car when it arrives in a few months.
If you are in the market for a car, and you are considering the Accord, or Corolla you better do yourself a favor and drive this. At $22,020 this is what you want your wife, GF, sister or mom to drive. As for us.....We need FSI!!!