Volkswagen Jetta

Safety

The most recent Jetta range has a number of important safety features, including a safety cage to absorb impact energy. Its Intelligent Crash Response System deploys the vehicle’s six airbags, unlocks the doors and turns off the fuel pump in the event of an accident. Additional safety features include an automatic post-collision braking system, which slows the vehicle down after a collision to prevent any further impact. 

Even older Jettas aren't without the essentials. You can find the following in models as old as 2002:

• Side and head-curtain airbags
• Four-wheel antilock disc brake, which keeps your wheels from locking up on slippery surfaces
• Stability Control, which helps maintain steering control

Interior

Volkswagen cars generally have a more functional interior, and Jettas are no exception. While the newer models might lack some of the more stylish choices of competitors, everything is well positioned. This means driving is comfortable and controls are easy to reach. The latest-generation vehicles feature heated front seats. However, on older models like the 2008, a sunroof, leather-wrapped steering wheel and stick shift were available with the SE trim.

Technology

The Volkswagen Jetta has some efficient technology on board, especially in the most recent vehicles, such as 2017 and onwards. The Volkswagen Digital Cockpit is a large 12.3" high-resolution display that can be fully customized. You can choose to view speed, fuel economy, assistance systems and more. There’s also touchscreen technology for map navigation. The car can store up to four driver profiles. Other features include:

• Adaptive cruise control
• App-Connect system, so you can access your favourite apps
• VW Car-Net, which delivers the location of your vehicle to your phone so you can easily find your parking spot 
• Options for manual or automatic transmission

Configurations on older models offer an array of tech too. For instance, the 2008 comes standard with air-conditioning, heated side mirrors, keyless entry and an eight-speaker CD stereo with MP3 player and input jack.

Space

Interior space is generous, and there’s lots of leg and headroom for drivers and front and rear passengers. The trunk area is sizable, as well, which gives you lots of room for family trips or shopping. The rear seats can be folded down for additional storage, and some models, like the 2008, allow the passenger seat to fold flat.

Comfort

The Volkswagen Jetta has a functional business feel, and there are no frills in the interior design. The well thought-out placement of controls and spacious interior makes up for this, though. Seating can be upgraded to leather (from 2018) or premium leatherette (across model years) on some trims, such as the SE. Driving-wise, it handles well, although some drivers find the Jetta to be a little sluggish compared to similar specced vehicles. The 147 hp engine takes just under eight seconds to reach to 96 km/h, which can make highway passing more challenging.