Jetta may change your mind about station wagons

Candidly, I’ve never been a fan of wagons. The cargo space comes in handy, but the trade-offs in style make me move toward sport utility vehicles and crossovers.

This VW, though, has a sharper, more sophisticated profile with subtler accents than previous models. A roof rack, halogen headlamps in blacked-out housings, and a narrowed front fascia add to the urban, sporty look. And who doesn’t like slipping in and out of a vehicle without standing on a running board?

While the 2010 front is different than its predecessor, the rear stays the same except for the smoked taillight lenses, which add to the athletic, contemporary look. Although some reviewers gripe that makes the car look dated, I didn’t see that it detracted from the leading-edge look.

That look continues in the interior, which includes a host of high-tech audio and climate controls on an updated instrument panel, more ergonomic controls, a 60/40-split rear seat, a new three-spoke steering wheel with tilt and telescoping capabilities, and a wealth of storage within the ample cabin.

The usable cargo in normal seating conditions leaves you more than enough room — 32.8 cubic feet — for gear, coolers, kids stuff and whatever else you need.

The rear 24.6-inch-high tailgate is easy to open, close and load.

Like other reviewers, I have to agree that even when you use all the space the vehicle has to offer, it still has a slim, smaller car feel.

That’s just one of the styling changes that make this model so different.

I drove the 2.0-liter clean diesel TDI engine that won VW a Guinness world record for lowest fuel consumption. As you might recall, those rates were achieved when driven in real-world conditions by specially trained drivers. Still, even the everyday driver can achieve 30 mpg city and 41 mpg highway fuel economy ratings.

I don’t often drive a manual transmission, and this six-speed transmission made shifting a breeze. VW says that’s because of the advanced direct shifting technology controlled by a computer that notes when one clutch is engaged and automatically releases the previous clutch. It really made a difference, as evinced by smooth, powerful driving and control.

VW clearly spent time on the chassis and suspension of this car. Whether I was bumping through a pothole-laden road or driving around obstacles, the car felt solid and stable.

VW credits a four-wheel independent suspension arrangement with a MacPherson strut package and stabilizer bar up front, and a 4-link setup, complete with coil springs, telescopic shocks and a stabilizer bar, at the rear. You can feel the responsivness and stability.

Anyone who wants the extra room of a wagon with the sporty elegance of a luxurious contemporary sedan should put the 2010 Jetta Sportwagen TDI on his short list.