Driving the Volkswagen Jetta Sport feels like a trip down memory lane with a sprinkle of modern conveniences.
If you’re looking for a car that blends old-school charm with some contemporary features, the Jetta Sport might just pique your interest.
First off, it’s not every day you find a car with manual seat controls and an actual key (!) for the ignition. For some, this could actually feel refreshing.
But don’t let the old-school elements fool you. The Jetta Sport isn’t completely bare-bones.
It comes with heated seats and automatic headlights. The cloth seats have an interesting pattern that adds to the car’s unique character, and there’s a surprisingly big trunk, which is always a plus for those weekend getaways or grocery runs.
On the downside, the side mirrors are a bit small, which might take some getting used to. But, in the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor issue.
Comparing it to its sibling which we drove earlier, the Jetta GLI, the Sport model is quite different.
While the GLI is a rip-roaring sports sedan, the Sport is more subdued. However, it’s still reasonably peppy. I worried it might be painfully slow, but it’s oomph turned out to be a pleasant surprise.
One thing to note is VW’s struggles in the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study. During my drive, there was an instance where the ignition wouldn’t turn without jiggling the steering wheel. (This could also be chalked up to operator error.)
This Jetta Sport comes in at $26,580 after shipping. All told, it’s a competitive price for what you get.
