Skip the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta if You Want a Good Deal on a New Car Right Now
The auto industry is still struggling with pandemic-induced supply chain issues, and some new cars aren’t getting to market fast enough. Because of limited availability, many new models are selling for well above the manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP). Hyundai and Kia vehicles are seeing the biggest dealer markups. However, you might also want to avoid buying a 2023 Volkswagen Jetta for the same reason.
The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta is selling for well above the recommended price
According to Consumer Reports, Kia and Hyundai dominate the list of cars selling for above MSRP, with the Kia Carnival at the top. The minivan is going for 20% over the manufacturer’s recommended price, which ranges from $33,100 to $46,200, according to Consumer Reports.
The Kia Sorento, Kia Sportage, and Kia Telluride follow suit, going for 18% over MSRP. Next are three other Kia models — the Seltos, Rio, and K5, with a 17% markup, alongside the first Hyundai model on the list, the 2023 Hyundai Ioniq 5. Even the Kia Soul and Hyundai Tucson make the list with 16% markups.
Although the 2023 Volkswagen Jetta doesn’t crack the top 10 list, it’s not far behind. Buyers have been paying an average of 15% over VW’s recommended price.
2023 Volkswagen Jetta price, specs, and features
The 2023 Volkswagen Jetta starts at $20,655 and comes in four trims. They are the S, Sport, SE, and the range-topping SEL, available from $28,385. All pack a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine making 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque, per Volkswagen.
In addition, all trims are front-wheel-drive, although car buyers get a pick of transmissions: an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual. One of the more impressive standard features is a digital gauge cluster with features such as navigation, fuel economy, and phone connectivity.
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, but buyers can add extra features like wireless charging, Sirius XM Radio, and remote start, depending on how much they’re willing to spend.
Also, fuel efficiency is impressive on the highways at 42 mpg. In the city, it’s 29 mpg.
Other 2023 Volkswagen Jetta highlights include its excellent ride quality and roomy trunk. Plus, the passenger space is impressive for a small car.
Overall, the 2023 Jetta is a decent value at the recommended retail price. However, current dealer markups make finding a good deal challenging. So you might want to check out some alternatives.
Consider these Jetta alternatives
The 2023 Toyota Corolla is one of the closest Jetta alternatives with regard to pricing. According to Toyota, a new Corolla starts at $21,550 and offers sedan and hatchback body styles. You also get to choose between gas and hybrid powertrains.
If you have more wiggle room in your budget, the 2023 Mazda3 and Honda Civic are also viable Volkswagen Jetta alternatives.
The Mazda3 starts at $22,550 and offers a whopping seven trims. In addition to its sporty exterior styling, it packs a 191-hp or 250-hp engine. And like the Corolla, the Mazda3 provides front-wheel and all-wheel drivetrain options and has sedan and hatchback body styles.
At $25,050, the 2023 Honda Civic has the highest starting price among Jetta alternatives. Choose between 158-hp and 180-hp engines and various trims. In addition, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard features. Furthermore, even the base model includes advanced driver-assistance systems, such as road departure mitigation, traffic sign recognition, and lane-keep assist.
