I just got a new 2005 VW jetta and I absolutely love it! While looking for it, I drove the focus (I personally really liked the hatchback, but didn't like the look of the sedan, it also didn't get great safety ratings), honda civic, mazda, and hyundai elantra (which I hated). We ended up getting a great deal on the jetta where it was cheaper than nearly all of the other cars we were looking at. It also has side and curtain air bags, which is something my mom is very happy with

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