Pros: Volkswagen's compact hero, the Jetta, is more American than ever. Larger and roomier, it also offers more comfortable seats and superb ergonomics. Yet driving dynamics have been preserved in the process. There's also a fantastic model and engine lineup to suit various tastes and budgets.
Cons: Styling is clean, yes, but also rather bland. The recent price cut is the result of an anaemic base engine and sub-par noise insulation. Finally, some reliability issues remain.
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Price: The 5 trim levels range from Trendline ($14,990) to Highline TDI ($27,790).
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Economy: Look for the Jetta to average anywhere between 4.5-10.0L/100km depending on the model and powertrain.
Improvements and Changes: To replace the obsolete 2.5L inline 5-cylinder engine, VW opted for a 1.8L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. Gone is the torsion beam rear suspension; say hello to a multilink setup. New colours have been added.
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Powertrain: There are 3 engines to choose from including a 115-horsepower 2.0L 4-cylinder, a 170-horsepower 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder, and a 140-horsepower, 2.0L turbodiesel. Available transmissions include 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes, a 6-speed automatic, and the acclaimed 6-speed DSG.
Cargo Capacity: The Jetta's trunk can hold up to 440 litres of gear. The split-folding rear seats maximize versatility.
Safety: ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, and traction control all come standard. In the event of a collision, the Intelligent Crash Response System and 6 airbags will protect Jetta occupants.
Comparing the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta: The compact car segment is loaded with great models such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Dodge Dart, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, and Toyota Corolla.
Cons: Styling is clean, yes, but also rather bland. The recent price cut is the result of an anaemic base engine and sub-par noise insulation. Finally, some reliability issues remain.
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Price: The 5 trim levels range from Trendline ($14,990) to Highline TDI ($27,790).
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Fuel Economy: Look for the Jetta to average anywhere between 4.5-10.0L/100km depending on the model and powertrain.
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| Photo: Volkswagen |
Improvements and Changes: To replace the obsolete 2.5L inline 5-cylinder engine, VW opted for a 1.8L 4-cylinder turbocharged engine. Gone is the torsion beam rear suspension; say hello to a multilink setup. New colours have been added.
2014 Volkswagen Jetta Powertrain: There are 3 engines to choose from including a 115-horsepower 2.0L 4-cylinder, a 170-horsepower 1.8L turbocharged 4-cylinder, and a 140-horsepower, 2.0L turbodiesel. Available transmissions include 5- and 6-speed manual gearboxes, a 6-speed automatic, and the acclaimed 6-speed DSG.
Cargo Capacity: The Jetta's trunk can hold up to 440 litres of gear. The split-folding rear seats maximize versatility.
Safety: ABS, brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, stability control, and traction control all come standard. In the event of a collision, the Intelligent Crash Response System and 6 airbags will protect Jetta occupants.
Comparing the 2014 Volkswagen Jetta: The compact car segment is loaded with great models such as the Chevrolet Cruze, Dodge Dart, Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Mazda3, Nissan Sentra, Subaru Impreza, and Toyota Corolla.