Everyone always strives to improve and automakers are no different always trying to make their next model generation that much better than before. With that in mind lets reward some 2011 calendar year models that made a significant improvement versus their previous generation. Keep in mind that this is not a list of 2011's best cars but rather a list of a few cars that have made great strides compared to their previous namesake.
Most Improved Sales: Volkswagen Jetta
Even though the Jetta has been Volkswagen's best selling model for many years running its overall sales were just a fraction compared to its better known mainstream competition. In fact the Jetta often struggled to find true competition as it was too upscale to compete with most compacts but wasn't much of a premium product either (see Buick Verano). For the sixth generation Volkswagen created downmarket variants of the Jetta and priced them closer inline with the competition. The result has been a sales improvement of 70% on the year. While many have chided VW for taking a "step back" with the Jetta, the public has certainly rewarded VW. The cheaper base price has helped sales, the Jetta's new crisper styling has likely helped as well.
Do you agree with these choices or do you feel that some other vehicles made more significant improvements over the past year?
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