Cheapest New VW Car Is an Overlooked Gem: Surprisingly Fun to Drive!
Like other automakers, Volkswagen hasn’t been immune to the ravages of inflation and supply chain shortages, resulting in record-high car prices. However, there are still affordable vehicles in the Volkswagen lineup, including the 2023 VW Jetta compact sedan. It’s the cheapest new VW car. Also, with its pleasing driving dynamics and comfortable and spacious cabin, the new Jetta is an overlooked gem.
2023 VW Jetta is the cheapest new Volkswagen car
With a starting price of $20,655 MSRP, the 2023 VW Jetta is the cheapest new Volkswagen car available in the United States. The next most affordable new models in the VW lineup are the 2023 Taos subcompact crossover SUV ($24,155 MSRP) and the 2023 Tiguan compact crossover SUV ($26,950 MSRP).
Here are the cheapest new Volkswagen cars:
- 2023 VW Jetta: $20,655 MSRP
- 2023 VW Taos: $24,155 MSRP
- 2023 VW Tiguan: $26,950 MSRP
- 2023 VW Golf GTI: $30,530 MSRP
- 2023 VW Jetta GLI: $31,585 MSRP
- 2023 VW Atlas Cross Sport: $34,460 MSRP
- 2023 VW Atlas: $35,150 MSRP
- 2023 VW ID.4: $38,995 MSRP
- 2023 VW Arteon: $43,010 MSRP
- 2023 VW Golf R: $44,740 MSRP
While many car models had major year-over-year price increases, the cost increase for the 2023 VW Jetta is modest. It costs only $290 more than the 2022 version.
2023 Jetta is one of the best compact cars
The Volkswagen Jetta continues to sell well in Europe, but in the U.S., it’s often overlooked. For one, sedans like the VW Jetta are not as popular as they used to be, as American consumers increasingly favor larger trucks and SUVs. Also, it gets overshadowed by other compact sedans, such as the Toyota Corolla and the Honda Civic, as well as more popular models in the Volkswagen lineup, such as the Tiguan and Atlas SUVs.
However, the overlooked nature of the Jetta contributes to its affordability. Lower demand results in a lower price. Also, being the cheapest new VW car is not the Jetta’s only selling point. It’s one of the best compact cars, according to some automotive experts. This includes Car and Driver, which states that the 2023 VW Jetta is “among the best compacts sold today.” In its evaluation, Car and Driver highlights the “cushy ride, stellar fuel economy, and spacious cockpit.”
VW Jetta has good driving dynamics, while high gas mileage adds to its affordability
Furthermore, the 2023 VW Jetta has surprisingly good driving dynamics. While the Honda Civic and Mazda3 generate more power than the standard Jetta model, the 158-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine is peppy and responsive. Also, for even greater performance, there’s the Jetta GLI, which features a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Additionally, drivers of the Jetta can enjoy its agile handling, precise steering, and confident braking. Plus, it provides a smooth and comfortable ride.
Another thing that adds to the affordability of the Jetta is its high gas mileage. It gets an estimated fuel economy of up to 31 city/41 highway mpg. Owners can save a great deal of money at the fuel pump over the long haul.
If you’re searching for the most affordable model in the Volkswagen lineup, then check out the 2023 VW Jetta compact sedan. It’s the cheapest new VW car — and an overlooked gem.
