[5] The Mark 5 sedan went on sale in the USA prior to any other country, reflecting the importance of the car in that market for Volkswagen.

Although produced in the largest volumes in Mexico, final assembly of the car also takes place in China and South Africa for those respective markets.

[7] Like initial production of the second generation in China, the Asian and African plants build the car from a complete knock down (CKD) kit shipped from the factory in Puebla.

[12] Styling reflects a new direction for the Volkswagen brand, with a new chrome front grille, first seen on the Golf Mk5 R32, which was trickled down to other models.

An impact-absorbing front bumper which yields slightly in the event of a collision with a pedestrian, reducing the chance of injury.

A Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission, available dual-zone automatic climate control, and electro-mechanical power steering were also available.

[21] When the Mark 5 Jetta was introduced, the Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine was not offered in five U.S. States due to the tight emission standards promulgated by the California Air Resources Board.

[22] The TDI Clean Diesel engine is rated 103 kilowatts (138 hp; 140 PS), and uses advanced features such as a diesel particulate filter and NOx-storage catalyst (vs. AdBlue) to reduce NOx in order to qualify as a Tier II Bin 5 vehicle (equivalent to California's LEV II rating), and thereby allowing it to be sold in all 50 U.S. states.

In the U.S., in August 2010, it was reported that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) was investigating 37,889 2009 Jetta TDI's regarding a stalling problem.

Handling was a strong point, with quick and precise steering and minimal body roll due to the MacPherson Strut suspension up front.

Equipped with sport seats, a firmer suspension lowered by 15 mm (0.59 in), and low profile tyres, critics praised the excellent handling that was an improvement over the already good performance on the standard model.

[33] Additionally, the 2.0 Turbo FSI engine also won commendation for its high power figures, smooth operation, and low fuel consumption.

[34] Along with its hatchback brethren, the fifth generation ranks among the top cars on the market in independent reviews of resale value.

Volkswagen has publicly stated its discontent over the excessive assembly time, and pledged to streamline manufacturing in the next generation of A platform cars.

[37] In the interim, Volkswagen de México is making a concerted effort to further increase productivity at the plant by consulting outside experts from Toyota and other Japanese companies.

[7] By implementing many lean manufacturing principles and techniques, a goal has been set to increase productivity levels at the factory by 30% or more in the coming years.

The same 104 kW (139 hp; 141 PS) and 240 lb⋅ft (325 N⋅m) of torque diesel motor was supplied, and the package included GLI brakes, suspension, and sway bars.

Additional upgrades from the base TDI were "TDI Cup Edition" body side stickers, 18 inch wheels with Pirelli P-Zero or Yokohama ADVAN 225/40R18 sport tires, aluminum pedals, leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome door linings, aerodynamic body kit (front, side & rear), an Interlagos cloth interior with heated sport seats, short shifter, faux carbon fiber inlays (as opposed to metallic), and a black interior (headliner/doorcards/dash).