The 2024 Volkswagen Jetta Proves Sedans Need a Comeback
SUVs are killing sedans as more families switch to boxy options. But a week with the Volkswagen Jetta shed light on interesting perspectives. Why are we truck and SUV obsessed when the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is more than enough car?
Is the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta a good daily driver?
Yes, the 2024 Volkswagen Jetta is perfect for commuters. It’s spacious, upscale, comfortable, engaging, and efficient.
While the Jetta starts with an MSRP of $21,435, I had the SE model that increases the price to $24,875. It adds 17-inch wheels, push-button start, keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and synthetic leather upholstery.
Before we dive in, a few potential drawbacks include the lack of steering wheel paddle shifters, aging tech, the lack of rear air vents for rear passengers, and cabin noise at highway speeds. But a comparable SUV trim level adds thousands to the price.
Anyways, the VW Jetta is engaging and fun to drive. The 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine cranks out 154 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. It’s available with a six-speed manual transmission and an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Good luck finding a manual SUV aside from the Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco, and Mazda3 Hatchback.
It has a smooth power delivery and plenty of power for passing others and merging into traffic. It can be driven as a manual with sporty driving modes as the gear shifts are available on the digital gauge cluster.
Normal mode is pretty relaxed, but the Eco mode is even smoother for taking it easy if you aren’t in the mood for an athletic jaunt around town. The brakes are more responsive in Normal mode and the steering is well balanced.
Thanks to the low center of gravity, the Jetta feels stable and easy to control. It was solid and confident on slippery roads during a massive thunderstorm. I felt incredibly safe.
Plus, the Jetta is efficient. It gets an EPA-estimated 30 mpg in the city and up to 40 mpg on the highway. I was getting 42.8 mpg on the interstate.
Also, the Jetta is downright convenient thanks to its nimble size. It’s agile and easy to navigate around tight obstacles and crowded streets with an 18.35 turning radius.
The Jetta is comfortable with supportive seats despite having a limited range of adjustments. The upholstery is upscale and plush, with metal brushed accents and textured patterns to draw the eye.
While the infotainment screen is a bit small with dated graphics, the system is quick and intuitive. Plus, the digital gauge cluster is easy to easy to customize. The setup allows you to focus on driving without complicated distractions.
Last but not least, the VW Jetta has a solid amount of storage space. The glove box is massive, the center console is narrow but deep, and the door pockets are beneficial.
The trunk is absolutely massive as well. It has a low lift-over height and the doors open wide for easy access. It has space for four adults and their gear.
While some spicy items are missing to make the Jetta sportier, it’s a fun economical choice that packs in the value.
