COSTA MESA, Calif. -

NADAguides.com named its Car of the Month for October last week, and taking this month’s accolades is the 2011 Volkswagen Jetta Sedan.

The site praised the model for its revamped exterior and interior and bolstered power, while also lauding the size, safety and technology upgrades.

“When we say or hear Volkswagen, first thought is: German,” stated Don Christy Jr., NADAguides president. “But, with the 2011 Jetta Sedan, it’s pretty clear that Volkswagen is speaking to the North American consumer.

“Volkswagen adjusted the exterior design to closely resemble that of its popular and successful sibling, the Passat,” he continued “They have also made an affordable sedan even more affordable by setting the base price at $15,995.”

Jonathan Browning, CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, added: “The all-new 2011 Jetta delivers an exceptional driving experience at an extremely attractive price. Consumers will thoroughly enjoy its fine performance, good looks and roomier interior.”

Customers can choose between four engine types. Each has manual transmission that is standard, with automatic transmission as an option. A six-speed DSG transmission will be optional on the 2.0L TD and TSI models.

Discussing the new exterior look, analysts said, “If it weren’t for the VW emblem sitting on the subtle grill, the dramatic exterior changes make the Jetta almost unrecognizable.

There aren’t any of the typical “in your face” — as NADAguides put it — exterior characteristics that had been common on the Jetta. Gone are the chrome grill and the big round head and tail lights, officials said. Instead, VW has put in a more pronounced bumper as well as slim lights that officials called "sleek."

VW has also lengthened the vehicle and expanded the wheel base. With the change, the leg room on the 2011 model is close to three inches longer.

“At first glance, this is a noticeable change from the short, round design to the new long and slender look that the 2011 Jetta Sedan is flaunting,” NADAguides said.

Moving into more aspects of the Jetta’s interior, NADAguides praised the revamped design and technology features, which have a “clean, simple look and feel" that it argues can suit all types of customers. 

Among the amenities that give the Jetta a “luxurious” feel are Bluetooth and GPS navigation as well as a leather interior. Moreover, another luxury-type feature is the ergonomic steering wheel. Thanks to the controls it features, drivers can pay attention to the road, officials pointed out. 

An exterior temperature display, auxiliary input and power locks are among the standard amenities included on the base model.

A premium sound system, navigation, sunroof and connectivity to Bluetooth and iPod devices are featured on the SE and SEL models.

Moving on, officials added: “Volkswagen has created a very luxurious interior for a very affordable sedan; it’s almost too good to be true.

“The rear bench now splits 40/60 and folds, providing more versatility and convenience for cargo space. As far as safety is concerned, Volkswagen has it covered with two front airbags, two side airbags and two thorax airbags,” they concluded.