Volkswagen has launched its all-new Jetta sedan range, larger than its predecessor and boasting superb new styling, a range of high-tech, fuel-efficient petrol end diesel engines and even better value with prices starting from $26,490 ($2400 less than the current model).
Significantly the all-new Volkswagen Jetta cuts its ties from the Golf hatchback. While previous versions were simplistically Golfs with boots, the all-new Jetta is a stand-alone model which shares not one body panel with the Golf.
The new looks of are a standout, the Jetta benefitting from Volkswagen’s new corporate styling DNA with crisp lines, the latest front end with large lights and a narrow grille and a very attractive rear with a powerful shoulder line and modern tail-lights.
Dimensionally, the all-new Volkswagen Jetta, at 4.74-metres long, is 19cms longer than the old model. That extra space is used cleverly inside with enhanced leg-room for rear seat passengers (up by 6.7cms).
Naturally the interior – like all current Volkswagens – is superbly done with nice, modern looks and quality materials throughout. Instrumentation is framed in silver for an upmarket look borrowed from the Volkswagen Passat CC and the usual massive boot continues (traditionally a Jetta strong point) – this time 510-litres with a 60/40 split for the rear seat to accommodate long loads.
Volkswagen has kept its current model nomenclature with three grades for the all-new Jetta – the entry level, a mid-spec model called ‘Comfortline’ and the high grade called ‘Highline’ – the later exclusively powered by Volkswagen’s 2.0-litre TSI engine.
That turbocharged 2.0-litre is shared with the sporty Volkswagen Golf GTI and, re-tuned for the Jetta, delivers 147kW of power at 5100rpm and maximum torque of 280Nm from 1700rpm. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.9l/100kms (six-speed DSG automatic transmission is standard).
The 1.4 TSI powerplant is a beauty – employing Volkswagen’s twin-charge (turbocharged and supercharged) for handy performance and optimized fuel consumption. Maximum power is 118kW at 5800rpm, peak torque of 240Nm from 1500rpm and fuel consumption as low as 6.5l/100kms (six-speed manual).
Volkswagen Jetta’s diesel option is a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with 103kW at 4200rpm and 320Nm from 1750rpm. For fuel consumption, score the Volkswagen Jetta103TDI at 5.5l/100kms.
Naturally the new Volkswagen Jetta comes fully equipped with an array of high-tech driver aides and safety devices including ESP and six airbags with Volkswagen’s Crash Impact Sound Sensor System (CISS) which deploys the bags appropriately and faster than ever according to the impact.
Amongst their extras, Highline models gain sports seats trimmed in Vienna leather and 17-inch alloy wheels
The new lineup is:
118TSI 6-speed manual $26,490
118TSI 7-speed DSG $28,990
118TSI Comfortline 7-speed DSG $32,490
103TDI Comfortline 6-speed DSG $34,990
147TSI Highline 6-speed DSG $37,990
