Volkswagen’s Jetta’s hatchback counterpart, the VW Golf, has graduated to the Mk 8 generation, however, VW’s compact sedan continues to ride on the Mk 7 platform but that doesn’t mean it’s been neglected so today I’m going to review it and see how it stacks up.

The standard Jetta comes in four trim levels: S, Sport (replacing last year’s R-Line), SE, and SEL. This tester I have today is the most expensive model but the base model S starts at a very inexpensive $20,665 and you can still get a manual transmission.

I don’t think the Jetta looks as good as the golf nor is it as practical since it has a trunk, not a hatch but VW has made the design much more complete over the years.

Exterior

Let’s start with the exterior design. The 2023 Jetta SEL 1.5T boasts a sleek and modern appearance, with clean lines and a bold grille that gives it a sporty and refined look. The LED headlights and taillights add a touch of sophistication, while the available 17-inch alloy wheels enhance its overall appeal. The Jetta SEL 1.5T manages to stand out among its competitors in this segment.

Under the hood

All models get the same engine, a new turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four borrowed from the Taos crossover, replacing the previous 1.4-liter turbo-four. The swap brings a horsepower increase from 147 to 158, while torque remains at 184 pound-feet. It’s mated to an excellent 8-speed automatic.

With a curb weight of just 3,016 lbs. versus the Taos’s 3,181 lbs. it’s no wonder the Jetta scoots to 60 in 7.1 seconds. It’s worth noting that the Honda Civic with the more powerful 180-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter engine, takes 7.5 seconds to 60 which could be down to the fact that it has a CVT.

The Jetta is very fuel efficient with highway mileage estimates of 40 mpg.

Driving

The engine provides smooth acceleration and ample power for both city commuting and highway cruising. The responsive handling and precise steering make maneuvering through tight corners a breeze, adding a touch of fun to your daily drive. The fuel efficiency is commendable as well, making it an economical choice for those concerned about gas mileage.

The Jetta exhibits impressive driving dynamics that strike a balance between comfort and sportiness. It has a similar strut-type front suspension as the GLI but at the back, it makes do with a torsion beam, and the chassis is tuned for comfort. The suspension system has been finely tuned to provide a smooth and controlled ride, effectively absorbing road imperfections and minimizing body roll during cornering. It has a similar strut-type front suspension as the GLI but at the back, it makes do with a torsion beam, and the chassis is tuned for comfort.

You do get a number of drive modes which include Eco Normal, Sport, and Custom where you can program the ACC and steering to be a little firmer. I spent most of the time in Normal and just used the shifter to toggle between Sport and Normal

The steering is precise and nicely weighted, offering excellent feedback and allowing for confident maneuvering in tight spaces and on winding roads. Overall, the 2023 VW Jetta’s driving dynamics inspire confidence and make every journey enjoyable.

Handling and Stability

When it comes to handling, the Jetta shines. The sedan feels nimble and well-balanced, eagerly tackling corners with confidence. The suspension setup strikes a good compromise between sportiness and comfort, allowing for precise control without sacrificing ride quality. Whether navigating city streets or taking on twisty country roads, the Jetta provides a stable and composed ride that instills driver confidence.

The rear does occasionally get upset in mid-corner bumps but for the most part, the suspension is well controlled and unless you get up to serious shenanigans you should be fine.

Braking System

The braking system on the Jetta is strong and responsive, delivering precise stopping power. The pedal feel is firm and easy to modulate, allowing for smooth and controlled braking in various driving situations. Whether coming to a quick stop in traffic or gently easing to a halt, the Jetta’s braking performance inspires confidence and contributes to overall safety.

Interior

Step inside, and you’ll be greeted by a well-crafted interior with cabin materials of decent quality but you will find some cheaper plastics below knee level. The leather-covered seats provide excellent support and comfort for both the driver and passengers. that exudes quality. The cabin is spacious, offering ample legroom for both front and rear passengers. The supportive and comfortable seats, upholstered in premium materials, make long drives enjoyable.

The dashboard layout is intuitive, with a user-friendly infotainment system at the center because it has physical buttons and knobs something currently missing for the Golf GTI and Golf R. Digital instrumentation is now standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment display in most trims but the SEL and GLI get a 10.3-inch display. The larger unit is responsive and easy to navigate, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

No hatchback

With a conventional trunk, the Jetta has 14.1 cubic feet of space but lacks the overall utility of the Golf.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, Volkswagen has prioritized the well-being of its passengers. The Jetta SEL 1.5T comes equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. These features work together to enhance driver confidence and provide a secure driving experience.

VIDEO REVIEW

Verdict

I’m pleasantly surprised by how the 2023 Jetta drives; it’s got plenty of power from its tiny 4-cylinder and it’s very economical. The design is eye-catching, it has a comfortable interior, advanced safety features, and it offers a well-rounded package for those seeking a fun practical daily driver. Whether you’re a first-time car buyer or a seasoned driver, the 2023 Jetta SEL 1.5T is sure to impress.

2023 VW Jetta SEL Numbers

BASE PRICE: $28,385
AS TESTED PRICE: $29,280
VEHICLE LAYOUT: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan
ENGINE: Turbocharged and inter-cooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4
POWER: 158 hp @ 5,500 rpm
TORQUE: 184 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm
TRANSMISSION: 8-speed automatic 
CURB WEIGHT: 3,016 lb
0-60 MPH: 7.1 sec
EPA COMB/ CITY/HWY: 33/29/40 mpg
OUR OBSERVED FUEL ECONOMY: 24.2 MPG
PROS: Quicker than expected, smooth ride, very fuel efficient 
CONS: Some cheaper cabin materials, no cooled seats on this highest trim