Author: Steve Allen |
2,587

In America, the Jetta has held the crown as Volkswagen’s best-selling car for many years, a title that has continued to this day thanks to the success of the sixth-generation model, released in 2011.

New for 2016

After a redesign for model year 2015, the Jetta continues to add to value for the 2016 model year. A new 1.4-liter turbocharged, direct-injection engine replaces the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine in the S model and the 1.8T in the SE and SE with Connectivity. This engine makes 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, as well as improving estimated highway fuel economy by more than 15 percent over the outgoing 2.0-liter engine.

The addition of a new infotainment system for 2016 provides a comprehensive suite of connectivity features. Volkswagen Group of America is one of the first in the industry to support all three available connected car systems: Apple CarPlay®, Android Auto™ and MirrorLink®. The new MIB II system offers USB and VW-Car Net® App-Connect, allowing owners with these systems to access select apps from their smartphones directly through the vehicle’s head unit. VW Car-Net’s connected vehicle services umbrella also includes connected car services, advanced telematics, and enhanced navigation available by subscription.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

Other adjustments to equipment have been made for 2016. TSI® S models add MIB II infotainment with a 5-inch touchscreen and USB, and speed-sensitive electric power steering is now standard. All other models receive MIB II infotainment with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect, as well as a rearview camera (new for SE). The TSI SEL (replacing the 2015 SE w/ Connectivity and Navigation) receives automatic headlights with rain-sensing wipers; and a soft-touch dash. The TSI SEL Premium (replacing the 2015 SEL) receives automatic headlights with rain-sensing wipers.

The Tech Package (available on TSI S) includes MIB II infotainment with USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect via a 6.3-inch touchscreen; rearview camera; and an extendable and adjustable armrest.

All Jetta models get the Automatic Post-Collision Braking System, while the Driver Assistance Package (available on TSI SEL and SEL Premium models) now includes Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) in addition to Blind Spot Monitor w/ Rear Traffic Alert.

For 2016, the GLI is redesigned to feature aggressive new front and rear styling.

Exterior

The Jetta design incorporates clear, precise lines and muscular surfaces to impart a timeless elegance. At the front, the coupe-like incline of the windshield and the consistent use of horizontal lines define the design. The radiator grille features three cross fins and Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) are available. These Bi-Xenon units have a distinctive design and unmistakable signature, with each daytime running light being formed by 15 LEDs arranged in an L-shaped string alongside and beneath the xenon modules. This look is further accentuated by a chrome element between the LED daytime running lights and the xenon lights. The visual band formed by the radiator grille and headlight clusters, as well as the large lower air intake, give the Jetta a substantial appearance. This look is finished off with optional foglights mounted in the outer areas of the bumper.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

These lighting elements are available as part of a new Lighting Package, which is available on 1.8T and SEL trims for $995. It includes interior ambient lighting, the Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering and LED Daytime Running Lights, and an upgraded display in the instrument cluster.

On Jetta 1.8T models, the radiator grille has a closeable shutter, a feature which assists in helping improve aerodynamics (by guiding frontal airflow around the body) and fuel efficiency, as well as offering greater thermal control of the engine. By keeping the shutter closed during warm-up, the engine can reach operating temperature faster, after which the shutter is automatically opened and closed as needed.

The 2016 Jetta features a trunk lid with an aerodynamic trailing edge—an integrated spoiler that lines up with the car’s silhouette near the character line, extending elegantly into the rear fenders. The Volkswagen logo sits just below the trunk lid, flanked by available LED taillights (GLI and Hybrid only).

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

For 2016, the GLI gets a bold new look highlighted by an aggressive front fascia that incorporates a honeycomb grille and foglights, along with a new rear bumper design that has a diffuser and a pair of chrome-tipped exhausts. 2016 Jetta GLI models have 18-inch Mallory design aluminum-alloy wheels, shod with standard all-season tires or optional summer performance tires.

Aside from the blue-highlighted Volkswagen logo and badging, the Jetta Hybrid features a unique air intake, air dam, side skirts, underbody and diffuser that help the Hybrid achieve a lower coefficient of drag than other Jetta models.

Interior

The Jetta features a truly spacious interior, with impressive rear-seat legroom of 38.1 inches. The gently arcing roofline also means more than ample headroom of 37.1 inches for rear-seat passengers.

The Jetta offers 15.5 cubic feet of usable trunk space, which can be increased by folding forward the 60/40-split rear seatback. The rear seatback is also offered with a pass-through to help accommodate longer items, like skis.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

The instrument cluster gauges are framed in chrome and have a “tunnel” design. Elsewhere, the Jetta offers several optional features based on trim: interior piano black and chrome accents; and ambient lighting.

Even the entry-level Jetta models come extremely well equipped. The Jetta 1.4T S has standard air conditioning, a multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, one-touch auto up/down power windows, power locks with remote keyless entry, and power heated exterior mirrors.

Premium features that are offered on Jetta’s various trims include: a six-way power driver’s seat; a leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel; dual-zone automatic climate control; a sunroof; a soft-touch dashboard; two-tone V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; heated front seats and windshield washer nozzles; rear seat with armrest and trunk pass through; MIB II infotainment with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect; Fender® Premium Audio System; Keyless access with push-button start; Volkswagen Car-Net® connected vehicle services; and a rearview camera.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

While the well-equipped GLI is treated to front sport seats, unique red piping and other performance-oriented tweaks, the Jetta Hybrid is given its own color instrument cluster (with a “power meter” display) and an assortment of driver assistance systems, including Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert and Park Distance Control (Park Pilot).

Developed through collaboration between Fender® and Panasonic®, the Fender Premium Audio System cranks 400 watts of power through nine speakers and a trunk-mounted subwoofer to bring the raw emotion of a live performance to the driving experience. It is standard on the Jetta 1.8T SEL Premium and the GLI SE and SEL.

One of the most significant advances in the 2016 Jetta comes in the form of its new MIB II touchscreen infotainment. The display utilizes a capacitive touch sensor (as in smartphone and tablet technology) rather than the more common resistive touchscreens that require pressure, enabling gesture controls like swiping and even pinch-zooming.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

The entry-level S model features a Composition Color touchscreen radio with a 5.0-inch resistive 400 x 240 color display and a host of standard features including AUX-in, SD card slots, and a USB multimedia interface with Apple iPhone® and iPod® compatibility, reverse camera display, and Bluetooth technology.

The all-new infotainment system not only creates the foundation for the next generation of Volkswagen’s Car-Net connected vehicle services platform, but also offers one of the most comprehensive suites of connected vehicle services and features available in the automotive industry today. Features available through the new Car-Net are divided into three key areas, “App-Connect,” “Security & Service,” and “Guide & Inform.”

App-Connect. The Composition Media unit is available on TSI S with Technology, SE, as well as TSI SE with Connectivity models. Incorporating the features from the Composition Color unit, the Composition Media unit adds an 800 x 480 capacitive color touch display with proximity sensor, with a 6.3-inch screen. Other standard features include App-Connect smartphone integration, Bluetooth with the ability to send and receive SMS text messages with compatible phones, sync two phones simultaneously, two SD card slots, and a JPEG viewer, SiriusXM Radio, HD Radio and support for lossless audio file format (Free Lossless Audio Codec FLAC).

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

Higher trim levels (TSI Sport, SEL and SEL Premium) feature the Discover Media unit, which captures the features available in the previous two units and adds 2.5D Navigation, one-shot voice destination entry, predicts possible destinations based on often used routes, and Destination Entry with Quick Search and Auto-complete, and Car-Net Guide & Inform.

Security & Service. Consumers have the ability to access the Car-Net Security & Service suite through the innovative online Customer Web Portal as well as an advanced app for smartphones, providing access to all the features available from virtually anywhere your mobile device is connected to wireless internet.

Available security related features include Automatic Crash Notification, which automatically notifies an operator who can quickly contact first responders in the event of an collision; Manual Emergency Call, a feature that allows for quick access to customer specialists at the touch of a button; Roadside Assistance, for added peace-of-mind in the event of trouble on the road; and Stolen Vehicle Location Assistance, which uses Car-Net Security & Service to assist law enforcement with locating your vehicle in the event that it is stolen.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

In addition, VW Car-Net Security & Service offers other new features for 2016 model year including new layers of convenience such as remote vehicle access, remote door lock and unlock, remote honk and flash (of lights), last parked location information, and remote status check (doors and windows). Consumers will also be able to send a location from their connected smart device to the factory-installed compatible navigation system on select models. For consumers that prefer a more personal touch, agent destination assist is also available.

The Car-Net Security & Service also offers Family Guardian, a suite of features that help families. Features including speed alert, which notifies the owner of the vehicle when the pre-determined maximum speed limit is exceeded; and boundary alert, which lets you know when the vehicle has traveled outside of a pre-set virtual boundary.

Diagnostics and maintenance information is also available through Car-Net. A Vehicle Health Report allows Volkswagen customers to quickly check to see if their vehicle is in proper running order. When it’s time for scheduled service, Car-Net Security & Service not only notifies the customer, but provides a simple way to schedule a dealer visit. It can even identify the closest dealer in case you need a recommendation.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

Available later this year, the VW Car-Net app for Apple Watch will allow VW customers to control a host of features and functions available through the iPhone app and Customer Web Portal, directly from their wrist. Apple Watch wearers can keep an eye on their vehicle from afar, remotely locking and unlocking doors and viewing the status of doors, windows and sunroof (open or closed). Consumers will also be able to find a parked vehicle quickly, with a map of the current vehicle location, walking or driving directions to the vehicle, and the ability to honk the horn and flash the lights remotely. Drivers will be able to check their fuel level as well. As with the Car-Net app for iPhone, Apple Watch wearers will also be able to receive alerts directly to their Apple Watch from the app.

Guide & Inform. Car-Net Guide & Inform offers an enhanced navigation and infotainment experience for VW consumers. Volkswagen has incorporated technologies that enhance existing navigation offerings while adding an additional level of information that empowers consumers.

Satellite navigation is refined with Car-Net Guide & Inform, incorporating several layers of information right onto the screen. MIB II-equipped Volkswagen models with in-vehicle navigation systems will now feature real-time fuel prices, sports scores, movie information and weather data as part of the three month SiriusXM Travel Link trial. VW customers will also enjoy real-time traffic information and a complimentary four-year SiriusXM Traffic trial.

Customers purchasing new Volkswagen models equipped with VW Car-Net connected vehicle services (not including App-Connect) will receive a no-charge trial for six months after purchase. To extend the benefits of this connectivity system, customers can choose from a number of VW Car-Net payment options: 1 year, for $199; 2 years for $378; 3 years for $540; or, month-to-month, for $17.99. App-Connect can be used free-of-charge and is not included as part of the subscription-based services.

Powertrains

Volkswagen pioneered the use of small displacement, highly efficient turbocharged and direct-injection engines in the U.S., starting with the EA113 engine in 2006 Jetta GLI and GTI models. Since then, Volkswagen’s EA888 four-cylinder has helped set the benchmark for small-displacement turbocharged engines, beginning with the 2009 CC.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

For 2016, a new 1.4-liter EA211 turbocharged, direct-injection engine that shares its basic architecture with the engine in the Jetta Hybrid, replaces the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine in the S model and the 1.8T in the SE. This engine makes 150 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, as well as improving estimated highway fuel economy by more than 15 percent over the outgoing 2.0-liter engine. Fitment of this engine to the Jetta brings Volkswagen’s percentage of vehicles equipped with turbocharged, direct-injection engines up to about 97 percent, reinforcing the company’s leadership in this technology. The EPA estimated fuel economy rating is 28 mpg city and 40 mpg highway when equipped with the five-speed manual transmission (late availability); with the six-speed automatic transmission, ratings are 28 city and 39 mpg highway.

The Jetta 1.8T models feature the third-generation EA888 turbocharged and direct-injection four-cylinder engine that is made in Silao, Mexico. This 1.8-liter engine produces 170 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and a broad torque plateau of 184 lb-ft from 1,500 to 4,750 rpm. The EPA estimated fuel economy rating is 25 mpg city and 37 mpg highway when equipped with the five-speed manual transmission; with the six-speed automatic transmission, ratings are 25 mpg city and 36 mpg highway.

The latest version of the EA888 TSI engine, in 2.0-liter form, also powers the Jetta GLI model. This double-overhead cam, 16-valve, 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine produces 210 horsepower and 207 lb-ft of torque. While it gives the GLI exhilarating performance, it is also efficient, with EPA estimated fuel economy of 24 mpg city and 33mpg on the highway when equipped with Volkswagen’s fast-shifting DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission.

Jetta Hybrid

The star of the Jetta Hybrid show is unquestionably a powertrain that’s unique in the compact hybrid segment. Combining a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine with a 27-horsepower electric motor, the Jetta Hybrid is able to achieve a perfect balance of power and efficiency.

The gasoline engine is one of Volkswagen’s latest in the EA211 series of small engines. It features many improvements over the previous EA111 generation, including lightweight aluminum construction, an exhaust manifold integrated into the head, and a toothed-belt drive for its double overhead camshaft valvetrain that incorporates variable intake timing. In fact, the only aspect to be carried over from the EA211 is the 82 mm cylinder spacing. The cylinder bore was decreased by 2 mm (to 74.5 mm) while the stroke was increased to 80 mm, a change which not only helps compactness, but also increases torque and presents an ideal canvas for adding boost (turbocharging or supercharging)—something the engineers at Volkswagen have spent many years developing.

The 1.4-liter TSI engine in the Jetta Hybrid features a 10.5:1 compression ratio, direct injection, and turbocharging to produce 150 horsepower at 5,000 rpm. This engine’s turbocharging system offers incredible boost response thanks to its cleverly designed intake manifold, which enables the use of a surprisingly small, single-scroll compressor. The intercooler is integrated directly into the injection-molded induction pipe. This design generates maximum torque of 184 lb-ft at just 1,600 rpm.

A hybrid also needs electric power. For that, the Volkswagen engineers employed an innovative hybrid module—a single, integrated unit that incorporates both the electric motor and the clutch that connects it to the engine. This water-cooled motor can add 27 horsepower (20kW) to the mix, as well as a constant 114 lb-ft of torque. Combined, the system puts out 170 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 184 lb-ft of torque at an impressively low 1,000 rpm, giving the car incredibly smooth acceleration. (The maximum torque is limited by the transmission.)

An 11.9-gallon tank provides gasoline for the engine and a high-voltage battery placed above the rear axle powers the Jetta Hybrid’s electric motor. This 60-cell system produces a total voltage of 220 V, rated energy of 1.1 kWh, and pulse power of 32 kW. This battery pack is equipped with high-tech cooling and management systems to help ensure efficiency.

An industry first, the Jetta Hybrid connects its powerplant to the pavement via a seven-speed, DSG dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The DQ200 is the most efficient DSG transmission offered by Volkswagen, and employs a dry-clutch design as opposed to the wet-clutch arrangement seen in many other Volkswagen products. The unit can be operated as a pure automatic (“D” mode) or shifted manually. There is also a sport setting (“S” mode). Jetta Hybrid delivers manufacturer-estimated fuel economy of 42 in the city and 48 mpg on the highway.

Thanks to refined powertrain and features such as a newly designed exhaust system, an acoustic windshield, and thicker front side windows, the Jetta Hybrid is the quietest car Volkswagen has offered in the compact sedan class.

Electric Mode: The Jetta Hybrid starts up as an electric vehicle and remains in electric mode up to speeds of 37 mph, dependent on how the driver accelerates and topography. In this mode, the gasoline engine is stopped and is actually entirely disconnected from the drivetrain to help eliminate any loss in efficiency through parasitic drag. Even though the engine isn’t firing, the HVAC and electrical components, like the audio system, continue to operate. Although not designed for long-range, all-electric driving, the car can remain in this mode for more than a mile given the right circumstances.

If the driver selects the “E-Mode” button to the right of the shift lever, the electric mode is maintained up to 44 mph and allows for more aggressive gas pedal inputs without triggering the gas engine. This mode requires adequate battery charge and temperature: if the battery is depleted, the system will reactivate once it has regenerated enough power.

Turbo Power: Above 37 mph (44 mph in E-Mode), when the battery level is low, or there’s a demand for additional power, the Jetta Hybrid taps into its turbocharged engine. Once the driver has depressed the gas pedal the required amount, the clutch immediately and seamlessly closes, causing the gasoline engine to start. Once operating, the engine delivers more power than is needed for motion in order to charge the battery pack.

Boosting: If maximum acceleration is needed (either through kickdown in “D”, the shift lever in “S” or in the manual gate), the system will begin “Boosting.” In this mode, the electric motor works in conjunction with the gasoline engine, assisting it to achieve the total system output of 170 horsepower.

During these periods of “active boost” assistance, the primary role of the electric motor is to increase the powertrain’s output. There is also a “passive boost” state, in which the electric unit takes over accessory power, leaving the gasoline engine to focus on sending all of its power to the transmission. (Theoretically, this is the same as eliminating the parasitic drag created by a conventional car’s alternator.)

Regeneration and Coasting: While the gasoline engine charges the battery during non-boost states, this requires energy and thus, fuel. The only way of sending charge back to the battery is through regenerative braking. This process occurs whenever the driver applies the brakes, causing the Jetta Hybrid to convert the kinetic energy (in the form of heat) generated by braking into electricity in the battery. The Jetta Hybrid increases the amount of regeneration by decoupling the engine from the drivetrain, helping reduce drag caused by engine braking and increase the amount of retardation needed (and thus heat).

Similarly, the engine is shut off and is decoupled from the driveline to eliminate drag caused by the engine’s torque at higher speeds—up to 84 mph—when the driver releases the gas pedal. This helps to save fuel when, for instance, the car is going down a gentle slope or is coasting to a halt.

Chassis

All Jetta models are fitted with a strut-type front suspension with coil springs, telescopic dampers, and an anti-roll bar. They also have a sophisticated multilink independent arrangement that features three transverse and one longitudinal link per wheel. This enables the longitudinal and transverse dynamics to be precisely configured almost independently of each other. The result is more agile, responsive and precise handling. All Jetta models have an anti-roll bar as part of the rear suspension.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

The Sport and GLI models feature a sport suspension that rides 0.6 inches lower than other Jetta models. The GLI also features, as standard, the impressive XDS® Cross Differential System.

Safety

Safety in the 2016 Jetta starts with a stiff and rigid bodyshell constructed using seamless laser welding and high-strength steel in key areas.

Also standard on all Jetta models are driver and front passenger front and side thorax airbags and Side Curtain Protection® airbags front and rear. There is also a standard suite of advanced electronic safety features, such as Anti-lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA).

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

Volkswagen’s Automatic Post-Collision Braking System is new on Jetta for 2016. This builds on the premise that a collision is rarely a single, instantaneous action, but rather a series of events that follow the initial impact—the most significant of which can cause additional collisions. The Automatic Post-Collision Braking System addresses this by applying the brakes when a primary collision is detected by the airbag sensors, thus helping to reduce residual kinetic energy and, in turn, the chance of additional damage.

The Jetta also includes Volkswagen’s Intelligent Crash Response System that shuts off the fuel pump, unlocks the doors, and switches on the hazard lights if the car is involved in certain types of collisions.

Driver Assistance Systems

The TSI SEL and SEL Premium models are available with an updated Driver Assistance Package ($950) that adds Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) and Forward Collision Warning and Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist) to Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) uses forward facing radar to maintain a set speed while also helping maintain a set distance to the vehicle in front. The driver sets the speed and the desired spacing via buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and can use the accelerator, brake pedal, or steering wheel to cancel or override the ACC function. All system messages appear in the central multifunction display. When the roadway ahead of the vehicle is empty, the system maintains the set speed. On all Jetta models, the ACC ceases to operate below 19 mph.

Within physical system limits, Forward Collision Warning helps warn the driver of critical front-end collision situations, both acoustically and visually by a warning symbol in the instrument cluster, and, if necessary, Autonomous Emergency Braking is activated to slow the vehicle if the driver fails to brake. If the brake pedal is applied but the driver brakes too lightly, the brake pressure is increased by the system (Braking Support).

Blind Spot Monitor uses two radar sensors at the rear of the vehicle to scan the approaching traffic and help warn drivers of potential danger in adjacent lanes. If the driver uses the turn signal to indicate a lane change while a vehicle is detected in a blind spot, the system utilizes a flashing LED symbol in the outer area of the side mirrors.

The system is designed to help alert drivers in specific situations; stationary objects or oncoming vehicles do not trigger warnings, nor will vehicles more than one lane across.

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

2016 Volkswagen Jetta © Volkswagen AG

The Rear Traffic Alert system not only helps alert the driver to stationary and moving vehicles directly behind, but also helps detect vehicles approaching from the side that may be difficult for the driver to see while reversing. It offers a sizable range of about 65 to 80 feet, depending on model, and will present a visual and an acoustic warning, before applying the brakes if a potential impending collision is detected. The system is activated either by selecting reverse gear or by the optional Park Distance Control (Park Pilot) when starting off.

Also available are Bi-Xenon headlights with LED Daytime Running Lights and the Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS), in which the headlights track the Jetta’s steering angle and can turn up to 15 degrees in response, helping to better illuminate corners in turns. These lighting elements are available as part of a Lighting Package, which is available on all 1.8T SEL trims for $995.

Limited Warranty

The 2016 Jetta models are offered with Volkswagen’s standard five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty.

Model Line-up

The 2016 Jetta is offered in four trim levels—S, SE, SEL and SEL Premium—with a total of 10 equipment levels.

1.4T S

The 1.4T S starts at $17,680 (plus $820 destination and delivery). A five-speed manual transmission is standard, as are four-wheel disc brakes, 15-inch wheels and a multilink rear suspension. A six-speed automatic transmission is available for $1,100. Inside, power windows, six-way manually adjustable front seats and cloth seating surfaces round out the entry-level Jetta. Key standard features include MIB II Composition Color infotainment with a 5-inch touchscreen and USB, Bluetooth® connectivity; a multifunction steering wheel; speed-sensitive electric power steering; power windows with one-touch up/down on all four windows; air conditioning; cruise control; trip computer; power locks with remote keyless entry; driver’s seat armrest; chrome grille; and power-adjustable heated exterior mirrors.

1.4T S w/ Technology

This trim builds on the S trim and adds a rearview camera, MIB II Composition Media infotainment with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, USB and VW Car-Net® App-Connect, and SiriusXM® Satellite Radio. MSRP starts at $18,675 with a five-speed manual transmission or $19,775 with a six-speed automatic.

1.4T SE

Starting at $18,995 with a five-speed manual transmission, the SE adds: 16-inch “Sedona Black” aluminum-alloy wheels; push-button start; heated front seats; heated washer nozzles; and adjustable front armrest with storage. Adding a six-speed automatic transmission brings the MSRP to $20,095.

1.4T SE w/ Connectivity

Starting at $22,325 and only available with a six-speed automatic transmission, the SE w/ Connectivity builds on the features included on the SE and adds: body-color exterior mirrors with turn signal indicators; chrome window trim; 16-inch “Arlington” aluminum-alloy wheels; front and rear carpet floormats; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; front reading lights; rear seat pass-through and armrest; driver seat lumbar adjustment; leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel and handbrake; power tilt and slide sunroof; and Volkswagen Car-Net connected vehicle services.

1.8T Sport

This limited-edition model offers either a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission, a sport suspension, and starts at $20,895. Additional equipment above the 1.4T SE includes: two-tone heatable front sport seats; V-Tex leatherette seating surfaces; foglights; black headliner; 17-inch “Joda Black” aluminum-alloy wheels; MIB II Discover Media navigation with a 6.3-inch touchscreen, USB and VW Car-Net App-Connect; contrast stitching on steering wheel, seats, handbrake and shifter; and a rear spoiler. Adding a six-speed automatic transmission costs $1,100. The Lighting Package is optional on this trim for $995.

1.8T SEL

Opening at $23,650, the 1.8T SEL comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission. Equipment builds on the 1.4T SE with Connectivity and includes 17-inch “Joda” aluminum-alloy wheels; Keyless access with push-button start; soft-touch dash; and foglights. In addition to the Lighting Package, the Driver Assistance Package becomes available for $950, which brings Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC); Forward Collision Warning with Autonomous Emergency Braking (Front Assist); Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Traffic Alert; and an upgraded instrument cluster.

1.8T SEL Premium

Starting at $25,380, the SEL Premium adds 17-inch “Lancaster” aluminum-alloy wheels; two-tone sport seats (with full-power driver seat); Fender® Premium Audio System; Homelink®; Climatronic® dual-zone climate control; and a cooled glove compartment. The Lighting and Driver Assistance Packages are optional.

 

4.1 Out of 5
EXTERIOR STYLE / DESIGN
INTERIOR & SPACE
EQUIPMENT & FEATURES
LUXURY FEATURES
ENGINE & PERFORMANCE
COMFORT & QUALITY
HANDLING & BRAKING
PRICE & FUEL EFFICIENCY