2011 Volkwagen Jetta

By Ian Bell Published August 10, 2010

As if Toyota didn’t have enough to worry about, the Germans decided it was high time to build an affordable Jetta. The new Jetta, believe it or not, starts at $16,000 and if you’re in the market for a Corolla you’re probably now thinking twice about your potential purchase. We had a chance to whip the car around some twisty roads in beautiful Northern California, and we’ve got to say its a mighty impressive car. And don’t think VW went completely downmarket, they’ve made available the latest bleeding edge technology like push button start, Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a very impressive amount of trunk space and rear leg room. Bottom line, we think the 2011 Jetta is the car to beat. Available in showrooms this Fall. Link

Ian Bell

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I'm the co-founder and CEO of Digital Trends Media Group, which I launched in 2006 out of my home office to share my passion…

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QuickCharge: This Week in EV

Cars

Xpeng just launched a $20,800 electric SUV, and US automakers should be paying attention

China’s $20,800 Xpeng Mona L05 makes the US EV price problem look even worse

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The five-seat mid-size SUV is available with fully electric and extended-range electric powertrains. The launch also comes as Xpeng looks beyond China, with the company targeting 65 countries and regions for the model.

Cars

Harley-Davidson’s electric future looks bleak as LiveWire warns it may not survive

LiveWire’s sales are growing, but mounting losses have left the electric motorcycle maker searching for a financial lifeline

Harley-Davidson's electric motorcycle brand LiveWire has warned it may not survive the next year. Recurring losses and limited funding have raised serious doubts about its ability to keep operating, leaving Harley's electric ambitions on shaky ground.

LiveWire reported $7.9 million in third-quarter revenue alongside an $18.6 million net loss. Selling more motorcycles hasn't brought the company close to covering its costs.

Cars

China’s latest tiny EV costs just $6,735 and somehow squeezes in five doors

The four-seat Bestune Pony joins the cute-car crowd with rear doors and a price that puts its Wuling rival squarely in view

FAW's five-door Bestune Pony has launched in China from 44,900 yuan, roughly $6,735. The tiny EV packs four seats into a cheerful little box just 3.35 meters long.

It looks like something you'd buy in a gift shop, but the layout makes room for everyday chores. There are four passenger doors and a rear hatch, so getting into the back doesn't require folding a front seat out of the way.