WASHINGTON — Let’s take a spin in the newly refreshed compact sedan from Volkswagen.
At first glance, you might say it looks like the last Jetta. Well, it has new styling at the front end and also a makeover at the rear — but it’s not a major change. It’s more a subtle rounding here and there to soften the look a bit.
The real change comes underneath, with features such as the suspension and stiffer-feeling body, which help improve the Jetta.
The updated Jetta also sees an upgrade to the interior. Even the SE model, the mid-trim level priced at $23,145, seems nice for the price. The materials are an upgrade from the previous Jetta, with soft-touch plastics and Leatherette that looks like real leather. The seats get hot in the sun, so be careful when sitting with shorts or a skirt.
There is plenty of room both in the front and back; the Jetta seems rather large for a compact sedan. Even the trunk has plenty of room for this size class. Another upgrade is a rearview camera and the touchscreen audio system with a fine sound, though the touchscreen needs multiple touches once in a while to get the hint.
In the driving department, the 2015 Jetta seems a bit more confident than the previous model. The ride feels more buttoned-down, and it handles bumps very well. The handling isn’t going to be confused with a sports car, but it’s acceptable for a compact. The 1.8T turbo engine seems peppy, and you can even choose a manual or automatic transmission with most Jetta models. My tester came with an automatic, which does a fine job, though the manual would make it a more engaging drive.
The fuel economy is 25 mpg city/37 mpg highway. I fell short of the 30 mpg combined, with 27 mpg in 182 miles of mostly city driving and making short trips.
The 2015 Volkswagen Jetta is more up-to-date and more upscale than the Jetta it replaces. With plenty of space inside for five and a nicer interior, it makes it an easier, nicer drive. The turbo engine helps keep up with traffic and with a choice of either a manual or automatic transmission, the Volkswagen Jetta offers a more European feel to the compact sedan market for a decent price.
Mike Parris is a member of the Washington Automotive Press Association. The vehicles are provided by STI, FMI or Event Solutions for the purpose of this review.
