Best Economical and Affordable 2011 VW Models vs. the Competition

Sales at VW are up a staggering 17% over last year thanks mainly to the runaway success of the larger and less expensive 2011 Jetta. It looks like rosy days may be ahead for VW dealers considering they still have the “Made in the U.S.A” 2012 Passat and 2012 Beetle to bolster their sales numbers. But should it come as any surprise that VW is successful when it sells economical, budget friendly models?

Considering the fact that their most popular models have all been the epitome of “everything you need, nothing you don’t” it is no wonder that models like the Phaeton flopped harder than a romantic comedy starring Vin Diesel. It just doesn’t fit the brand.

So in this mindset I figured I would list out the 2011 VW models that are great budget buy alternatives to used cars (they do come with 3 years free maintenance!) as well as some competing models I have had the pleasure of testing. If you are in the market for a fuel efficient, inexpensive and fun to drive new car then you are truly spoiled for choice.

2011 VW Golf—Two door models start under $18,000 and the Golf’s interior is better built than the Jetta’s no doubt about that. Always appealing with either Golf or Jetta is the 2.0 liter TDI turbodiesel motor which is simply marvelous when mated to the six-speed manual (although a six-speed auto DSG is optional).

2011 VW Jetta—The all new for 2011 VW Jetta has seriously come down in price ($15,995 to start) to compete with the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic. Sure, the base model isn’t very well equipped but if you can swing the $18,995 SE version you will find all of the goodies new car buyers want.

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