The VR6 was available in a Jetta early in 2004, but VW dropped it by the end of the year (some dealers still have them though). When I decided to get my wife a new car we looked at the Jetta GLI VR6, but in the end we got the GLI 1.8T instead. It is quicker than the GLI VR6 and it is loaded with stuff like the brake rotors from the R32, Recaro seats, a sport suspension, 18" BBS RC wheels wrapped in Goodyaer Eagle F1 GS D3 tires, the new 180 hp 1.8T engine, a 6-speed transmission and special bodywork (all standard). If you haven't seen one you should go to
www.vw.com and take a look.
I am also the original owner of a 1998 SVT Contour and a 1998 Contour SE Sport V6 5-speed. I can tell you that the GLI is barely quicker than the slightly modified, SE (with 90,000 miles on it), but it is definitely not as quick as the SVT, even when the SVT was absolutely stock (with just less than 50,000 miles on it). More importantly, both Contours handle better than the GLI and the SVT stops shorter as well. The GLI struggles for front end grip under acceleration, cornering and braking (maybe that's why VW made ESP standard on the GLI 1.8T). By contrast the Contour, with it's almost 10-year old suspension design, does all three much better. The Contour's steering is heavier, but gives more feedback, the brake pedal requires more effort, but can be modulated easier and when you pitch the Contour into a corner it just sticks (unless you lift off the throttle - then oops, the back comes around!).
I have been driving the GLI a lot lately as the SVT is undergoing a lot of modifications right now. And don't get me wrong the GLI is a nice car and I'm glad I bought it, but I can't wait to drive the SVT again.
There are many cars out there that are better than a Contour, but you have to spend a lot more money to buy any of those cars. It was true when the Contour was new and it is true now. I wish Ford would bring the new Mondeo to the States!
