The Jetta is a nice-looking car in person, it just isn't as attractive as it used to be. The whole problem I have with the newest Jetta is that it all looks good, but it doesn't feel as good. For the $20K or so it takes to get a "nice" Jetta, you're able to get into a lot of other nice cars. The Ford Focus (MKII), Chevrolet Cruze and Mazda 3 all come to mind as good/better/best alternatives in the price range.