Despite the fact that the car market is awash with a host of new types of cars from crossovers, to four door coupes we still remain affectionately attached in Ireland to booted versions of our hatchbacks!
What is it?
Much more than a Golf with a boot, Volkswagen’s Jetta is far closer in looks and styling to its larger sibling the Passat. Inside the new Jetta goes a long way to convey the feeling of something bigger and more expensive than the Golf.
Who is it aimed at?
According to VW the car is aimed at the younger generation of drivers we think it is also good choice for families.
Styling
If you like the styling of the Passat, the Jetta’s bigger sibling, then you’ll love the Jetta it looks even inch a shrunken Passat.
Under the bonnet
Our test car was the Jetta 1.6 Tdi fitted with the top trim level, the Highline model, and is priced at €27,830. The engine produces 77kW and 175Nm . With a vast array of engines and trims to choose from, Jetta owners are spoiled for choice. There are two petrol engines a 1.2 and 1.4 both with an output of 77kW and both falling into Band B for motor tax so the cost is €225 yearly.
Diesel options include a 1.6 and 2.0 with outputs of 77 and 103kWs respectively. For those who like automatic cars the DSG gearbox is a fantastic option. In terms of Motor Tax the 1.6 diesel is in Band A so annual road tax is €160 and the 2.0 is Band B so its €225 annually.
As expected, the best fuel economy comes from the 1.6 TDI engine which achieves 4.5 litres per 100km on the combined cycle. If you opt for the Automatic DSG gearbox this lowers economy by around 0.2litres per 100km.
Inside
Inside the Jetta’s interior there is nothing chintzy, but it is definitely more functional than funky. The layout is good, it is comfortable and there is good visibility. There are also oodles of storage areas and space for family and shopping.
On the Road
The ride quality in the Jetta is good and the handling balanced and reliable. Whereas the Golf has a sporty edginess the Jetta is more relaxed and composed. Road noise can be an issue at times but generally whether it is motorway cruising or dodging pot holes on back roads the Jetta is sufficiently flexible and capable to adapt.
Verdict
The New Volkswagen Jetta is a really good car and would suit small and large families alike. Styling is a little dull at best and characterless at worst. The real issue is the price. For very little more you could have the much larger VW Passat. Better value can be found from the Renault Fluence, Toyota Corolla or the Ford Focus Saloon.
Why you’ll buy one?
Economical engine; excellent roadholding; roomy
Why you won’t?
Expensive; too close in price to the Passat; bland interior
LAST WORD: In an aggressive market where price is king the Jetta will struggle to win fans over much cheaper and better equipped rivals.
Jetta 1.6 Tdi Highline 77kW (105BHP) Factfile
Engine: 1,598cc four-cylinder diesel putting out 77kW at 4,000rpm and 250Nm of torque at 1,500 – 4,000rpm
Max speed:190km/h
0-100km/h: 11.7 seconds
Emissions (motor tax): 119g/km (€160)
Starting price: €22,245 EURO (Test car priced at 27,830 EURO)
Model price range: €22,245 – 30,850 EURO
No of Doors: 5
Euro NCAP: Five Stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy: 4.7 litres per 100 km (60.1 mpg)
Boot Capacity: Seats up: 510 l
Length: 4644 (mm)
Width: 1778 (mm)
Height:1482 (mm)
Wheelbase: 2651 (mm)
Warranty: 2 years
