The Volkswagen Jetta is one of the most successful vehicles sold in the German marque’s history. With over 14 million units sold in its six generations of production, it is no wonder that the model also became a hit in the Philippine market, being the best-selling sedan Volkswagen Philippines has ever offered since its introduction. In 2017, the Jetta even bagged the distinction of being the Best Compact Sedan in the Car of the Year-Philippines (COTY-P). The stylish European sedan retains the solid feel, top-notch performance, and technological features of German cars without breaking the bank. Its remarkable heritage, world-class excellence, and signature Volkswagen premium amenities make the Jetta perfectly “Made for Everyday Living.” With an attainable price tag for all the indulgences it offers, the Jetta brings luxury German driving closer to the Filipino market. Offered locally are three variants which are the Comfortline, the Highlight, and the Business Edition + model. Powering the only diesel engine in its segment is a 2.0-liter Turbocharged Direct Injection.
Launch
The Volkswagen Jetta has been in production since 1979. It was first introduced by Volkswagen Philippines in 2014. Following the success of the previous generation, a facelifted version was released in March 2018. However, the Jetta is no longer being sold in the Philippines. It is replaced by the Lamando in Volkswagen’s local model lineup.
Exterior
The Jetta sports a subtle and subdued design retaining the timeless elegance Volkswagen is known for. Its aggressive-looking grille and lower font intakes are complemented by strong character lines on the sides. Apart from the aesthetic impact of its outlines, it adds to the vehicle’s impressive aerodynamics. Chrome trims provide an elegant, upscale touch to the simple exterior. Rectangular LED headlights, a squared-off rear end, and 17-inch alloy wheels complete the sleek and confident look.
Interior
Consistent with the exterior, the Jetta’s spacious cabin is filled with rectangular shapes with curvier edges, draped in dark gray trimmings, and a generous amount of leather. It boasts of a simple and straightforward layout with upscale and luxurious trims that exhibit German quality. Controls are in their right places and buttons are clearly marked. The uncluttered, minimalist dashboard makes it more convenient for the driver to navigate. It also comes with dual-zone climate control for added comfort. Seats are wrapped in leather and the driver’s seat is equipped with 6-way power plus lumbar adjustability. Topping off the elegant interior is a sunroof that adds natural lighting into the luxury sedan.
Technology & Safety Features
Crowning the dashboard is a 5.8-inch touchscreen that comes as standard in all three variants of the Volkswagen Jetta. The Highline trim gets a Fender 8-speaker sound system, while the Business Edition + model comes with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and MirrorLink which diversifies its entertainment system to navigation and smartphone access.
In terms of safety, the luxury sedan offers an advanced list of features including a complete set of sensors, Electronic Stabilisation Program (ESP) with Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), Electronic Differential Lock (EDL), and Engine Drag Torque Control (MSR) that are delivered as standard. The Business Edition + is equipped with an additional convenience and safety feature which is the adaptive cruise control system.
Platform & Chassis
The 4-door sedan is furnished with an electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering that aids the suspension for optimal handling. In front are MacPherson struts and a 3-point wishbone with a stabilizer complemented by multilink suspension at the rear. Stopping power comes for disc brakes.
Engine & Drivetrain
The Volkswagen Jetta is the only diesel-powered model in its segment. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter Turbocharged Direct Injection (TDI) diesel engine mated to a 6-speed DSG transmission system that produces 148 hp and 340 Nm of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels.