The Jetta is both refined and efficient. Its small turbo engine prods it forward effortlessly while offering superior fuel economy.

As in our Compact Sedan Big Test, the Elantra falls short in our Compact Sedan Big Test due to a stiff ride and unresponsive steering, but still represents a reliable option that provides plenty of space for passengers and cargo alike. Furthermore, its six-year/72,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty transfers easily between owners.

Engines

The Volkswagen Jetta is an affordable compact sedan offering plenty of standard features. It boasts a classy design and impressive fuel efficiency; coupled with a low price tag and offering exceptional value. Furthermore, the latest model also comes equipped with advanced driver aids; however its more subdued exterior may put off some drivers but works to its advantage.

The 2024 Jetta is equipped with a four-cylinder turbocharged gas engine that produces 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, capable of accelerating from zero to sixty in less than eight seconds and reaching top speeds of 118 mph. Furthermore, this vehicle boasts 30 highway mpg ratings while offering 21 city mileage consumption figures.

Jetta models feature a six-speed automatic transmission as standard; six-speed manual options are also available on SE and SEL models. Bluetooth streaming audio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration as well as a 6.5-inch touchscreen are standard across all Jetta models; rearview cameras may also be upgraded into panoramic sunroofs on select models.

The seventh-generation Volkswagen Jetta was released for sale in 2019. It features more interior room than its predecessor, as well as the latest generation of Volkswagen's infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster display (available as an option on SE and SEL), customizable ambient interior lighting of up to ten colors and heated front seats.

In addition to its new body, the seventh-generation Jetta has an upgraded chassis and suspension setup - with front and rear independent suspension systems now standard on each vehicle. Furthermore, it comes equipped with a dual-clutch automatic transmission and features an all-new engine.

The Jetta's 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 148 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque - more than enough power for daily driving and towing of up to 3,000 pounds. Furthermore, this vehicle boasts more spacious interior and better fuel economy - it seats five comfortably while boasting 14.1 cubic feet in its trunk space.

Transmissions

If you're on the market for a compact sedan that combines style and tech, look no further than Volkswagen Jetta. Though not as powerful as some rivals, its ample features will bring smiles behind the wheel.

Its rapid acceleration and impressive fuel economy provide plenty of muscle for everyday commutes, while its extensive list of advanced safety features provides extra peace of mind while on the road. Plus, the Jetta's luxurious interior provides more comfort than your average compact sedan!

The original Volkswagen Jetta was manufactured from 1985-1994 and came in two body styles, hatchback and four-door sedan. It featured two engine options - 115 horsepower four-cylinder gasoline and 1.9-liter diesel. Five speed manual transmission was standard while six speed automatic was optional - NHTSA awarded this generation five out of five stars for driver and front passenger frontal crash protection.

The second generation Volkswagen Jetta was manufactured between 2001 and 2006 on an entirely different platform than its predecessor. It featured slightly larger and more spacious dimensions while offering several new standard features, such as customizable ambient lighting with ten colors, heated front seats, Volkswagen Digital Cockpit dashboard and side curtain airbags as standard equipment.

2025 sees a complete redesign for the Jetta, including standardization of advanced driving aids. While its more subdued styling may annoy some drivers, its comprehensive feature set and Audi-esque charm should make this vehicle popular among buyers.

Contrary to many of its rivals, the 2025 VW Jetta offers two transmission choices. Its base S model comes with a turbocharged 1.4-liter inline-four engine that produces 147 horsepower and can be coupled with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed automatic. If you want something with more punch, consider opting for its GLI variant with its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

Safety

The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta is not only an enjoyable compact sedan to drive, but it is also highly safe. This can be seen from its outstanding ratings from professional safety organizations as well as its standard preventative and assistive driving features such as rear view camera systems to assist with parking or exiting spaces easily as well as blind spot monitors to give confidence when changing lanes on the road. Furthermore, numerous child safety features are included with LATCH so parents can feel assured when driving with children on board.

Every model includes an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to assist drivers when applying hard braking pressure, modulating pressure to each wheel to prevent locking up or skidding even on slippery surfaces. This feature is especially valuable to Avon, Indianapolis and Plainfield drivers as it may prevent fatalities during accidents if detected; intelligent crash response will shut off fuel pumps, unlock doors and share their location with first responders to ensure easier exit from their car and ensure quicker escape if a collision is detected.

Driver-assistance technology is another area where the VW Jetta stands out, boasting standard features often made available as optional extras on competing vehicles. Standard features such as forward collision warning and auto emergency braking with audio/visual alerts and brake pedal push if a collision is imminent are both included as standard features, along with lane keeping assist system that warns you about cars in your blind spot and keeps the car centered while adaptive cruise control helps regulate highway speeds automatically.

To upgrade to even more driver assistance tech, the SEL model offers an upgrade option for $995 that adds a 10.3-inch configurable digital instrument cluster, wireless smartphone mirroring capability, SiriusXM radio subscription service and Beats premium audio system - not exactly mind blowing, but at least showing that even basic cars such as Jetta can deliver impressive tech upgrades.

Value

Volkswagen's Jetta is the value pick of the compact sedan segment, boasting competitive pricing against rivals such as the Toyota Corolla, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Elantra and Honda Civic. It starts from just under $23,000 while top trim options reach nearly $30,000. Though that might sound steep for an entry-level compact sedan, VW offers great features and options at competitive pricing that set them apart.

The standard S model comes equipped with cloth upholstery and a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as Bluetooth connectivity. A rearview camera, driver aids, a panoramic sunroof, and 10-color ambient lighting system are also standard on SE and GLI models.

No matter the trim level, all Jettas provide a spacious and comfortable cabin for four, featuring ample headroom, legroom and shoulder room in back. A large trunk also adds convenience - capable of accommodating seven suitcases at once!

For drivers seeking extra driving excitement, the Jetta R-Line provides a sporty exterior design complete with unique grille and bumper accents as well as 17-inch alloy wheels. Furthermore, its front differential provides better responsiveness to steering input while an optional Beats 8-speaker/400 watt audio system completes its feature set.

The GLI offers more engaging performance than its standard Jetta counterpart due to its turbo engine and manual transmission combination, as well as sportier suspension tuning for more nimble handling on twisty roads. Keep in mind, however, that its standard suspension and brake upgrades add additional costs to its purchase price.

The Jetta is an attractive value proposition thanks to its outstanding crash test scores and available all-wheel drive on its top trim level, the SEL Premium. When shopping for one, be sure to use KBB Fair Purchase Price as an indicator of its current selling price in your area - it can help prevent overpaying by helping negotiate for better terms from dealerships, plus save time with KBB's smart shopping app!