Now in its sixth generation, the Volkswagen Jetta undergoes a mid-cycle refresh for the 2015 model year. The changes include exterior cosmetics, a few technical upgrades and improved interior detailing. Importantly, there is a raft of new driving and safety technologies. The 2015 Jetta lineup offers a choice of four trim levels – Trendline, Trendline +, Comfortline and Highline and a special GLI performance model along with a five different engine options, including turbo, hybrid and diesel options.
Our tester was a cool looking mid range 1.8 turbo TSI Highline model in a nice silk blue paint finish with a light Ceramique – Vienna leather and neat “Lancaster” 17-inch alloy wheels with all-season tires. The Highline features chrome window trim, front fog lights and a discreet rear “TSI” badge with red detailing. Highline edition comes with such features as: six way drivers seat, ambient interior lighting and active grille shutters.
The Jetta cabin features a neat, classy interior, with new seats, gauges and air vent designs. The cabin is livened up with neat matt iridium brushed trim, and new piano black accent surrounds for the instrument cluster, gearshift and audio controls. At the rear, the seatback is split 60/40 for access to the roomy trunk and to extend its 440-liter cargo carrying capabilities.
Our Highline tester was also optioned the Technology package comprising a navigation system; touch screen and the superb sounding Fender premium audio with 8 speakers, and Bi-Xenon headlights with the Adaptive Front-light System (AFS) that turns the headlights according to steering wheel. Also included was keyless entry with push-button start. Base price for our tester was $27,390, whilst the Technology package added $2,495 to the options list for a total price of a still reasonable $29,885,plus freight, PDI and AC tax.
Safety is also high with the Jetta Highline offering such features on our tester as: Blind Spot Detection System with Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Warning Collision. Inside, there are dual front airbags, side impact airbags up front and full side air curtains.
On the road the Jetta Highline is a fast, smooth performing sedan with excellent handling. It is all typical VW with a superbly stiff chassis and a “firm” feel that only VW aficionados know. The electro-mechanical power assisted steering is speed sensitive The powerful four cylinder engine is also a standout offering lots of torque in a smooth linear fashion courtesy of the slick shifting six speed auto transmission.
Estimated fuel economy is 9.3/6.3L/100 km (city/hwy). Not a lot to complain about with Jetta, there is a choice of engines and trim lines ranging from a incredibly affordable well equipped base model to hybrid, Diesel and the performance GLI versions. The Jetta is relaxing to drive and makes for a great family sedan with a spacious comfortable interior.
If you are looking for an efficient, durable, well made quality sedan with German pedigree, this is it. Highly recommended.
2015 Volkswagen Jetta Highline sedan Base priced from $27,390. Price as tested with options $29,885 plus freight, PDI and AC Excise tax $1,495.