New or Significantly Altered Models

2005 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
Fifth generation grows in size and style. The larger new Jetta will feature a fully-indpendent suspension, four wheel disc brakes and a chassis that Volkswagen claims is significantly stiffer. The base engine is 2.5L 5-cylinder engine unique to North America. Both 5-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions are offered.

Mostly Unchanged

2005 Volkswagen Golf 2 Door
TDI 2-door model dropped. New model for 2006.
2005 Volkswagen Golf 4 Door
Unchanged. New model due in fall, 2005
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan
Jetta GLI VR6 model dropped. All-new Jetta due mid-2005
2005 Volkswagen Jetta Wagon
Virtually unchanged
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
The performance-oriented Turbo S model has been dropped. Six-speed automatic with Tiptronic replaces 4-speed automatic for the 1.8T and 2.0 models. Standard MP3 connector for radio.
2005 Volkswagen New Beetle Cabriolet
Standard MP3 connector for radio.
2005 Volkswagen Passat Sedan
W8 model dropped.
2005 Volkswagen Passat Wagon
W8 model dropped.
2005 Volkswagen Phaeton
Updated front grille style. Active cruise control available mid-year. "Soft Close" doors. Myrtle and Walnut wood upgrades available on V8 model.
2005 Volkswagen Touareg
V6 model gains an additional 20 hp. DVD-based navigation system