Volkswagen’s previous 1.4L four was smooth and flexible. The newer 1.5L turbo four, shared with the new Taos, should be more of a good thing.

The conventional eight-speed automatic transmission harnesses the available power very well and has enough ratios to deliver strong acceleration from a stop and serene cruising. However, a lively response to throttle input from a stop makes it easy to induce wheelspin.
In the Sport mode, the Jetta’s steering feels meaty with good heft and tracks true at highway speeds.

The brakes are nicely weighted, easily modulated and very strong, with no lost motion.
The Jetta R-Line rides with a firm compliance under most conditions but the rear suspension can react poorly when traversing transverse ridges. This habit may be accentuated by the firmer suspension settings and larger wheels and tire package that is part of the R-Line package.

Small, triangular door mirrors and huge B-pillars do compromise outward vision somewhat, but the rearview camera is very good and the blind spot monitors on our test car partially compensated for the lack of vision.

Like most of Volkswagen’s recent new vehicles, like the Golf, Tiguan and Atlas, the Jetta is built on VW’s MQB platform. Most Jettas will be powered by a 1.5L turbo four that debuted on the new Taos and will find its way into other models over the next while. Power reaches the front wheels via either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed conventional automatic. Seating, long a VW strong point, is very comfortable. Legroom is ample up front and acceptable for rear seat riders. Cabin materials are attractive but are just class competitive, compared with the lavish VW cabins of the past. Most models feature traditional large gauges but premium models are equipped the VW Digital Cockpit, which uses a Transistor Film Technology (TFT) screen that is employed on other VW Group products. Large trunk. All trim levels are offered with either manual or automatic transmissions. VW also offers a GLI version powered by the 2L turbo engine from the Golf GTI

With air conditioning, L.E.D. headlamps and alloy wheels, the base Trendline trim is nicely equipped. The automatic-transmission Comfortline model includes blind spot and rear cross traffic monitors, active cruise control, wireless iOS-Android cellphone interface and charging, power driver’s seat, sport seats, dual-zone auto climate control and a number of minor comfort and convenience items, and is excellent value. The automatic transmission is a $1400 option on the Trendline and Comfortline trims. The range-topping Highline model adds a digital gauge package, navigation, leather seating, ventilated from seats, a memory systems, a Beats-branded audio system, a dual-panel sunroof and some additonal comfort and convenience items at a bargain price. The 228 horsepower, 2L GLI model, sends power to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch automated manual transmission, is comprehensively equipped, including leather seats and costs $3400 more than a 1.4L Highline.

Not rated, insufficient data. Electrical issues are to be expected as is a faulty turbo wastegate.