The 2023 VW Jetta has its pros and cons. On the positive side, it offers a spacious interior, a peppy and efficient engine, and a low starting price. The GLI model, in particular, stands out with its powerful engine and a wide range of comfort and convenience features. However, the regular Jetta lacks excitement in terms of driving dynamics and has a bland interior design. Additionally, there is only one trim level available for the GLI.
In terms of interior and in-car technology, the Jetta delivers a classic Volkswagen experience. It features a simple and user-friendly design, with a professional look and cost-effective construction. While it may lack the luxury and style of competitors like the Mazda3 and Civic, it also avoids the complication of the new GTI’s interior. The GLI trim level offers upgrades like enhanced upholstery, sport seats, and a sport steering wheel for a more engaging experience. The standard touchscreen is 6.5 inches, but an 8-inch upgrade is available, both of which are easy to use. The inclusion of wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto is a welcome feature, and the touch haptic controls are intuitive. The presence of physical volume and other controls adds convenience.
The GLI model comes with its own infotainment system, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen. Its functionality is similar to the regular Jetta’s 8-inch screen. The GLI also gets red interior accents, stainless steel pedals, and illuminated side sills, making it sportier and more distinctive.
In terms of space, the Jetta excels with its generous interior dimensions. Rear seat legroom is particularly impressive, and rear-facing child seats fit comfortably. The 14.1-cubic-foot trunk is wide and deep, although slightly smaller than some competitors. The GLI offers the same spaciousness, making it an attractive choice for performance enthusiasts.
Performance-wise, the regular Jetta comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that produces 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on certain trims, while an eight-speed automatic is standard on others. Fuel economy is commendable, with the manual achieving 29 mpg city, 43 mpg highway, and 34 mpg combined.
The 2023 VW Jetta GLI takes performance to the next level with a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine that delivers 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. It comes with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission. Fuel economy remains impressive, with the GLI achieving 26 mpg city, 37 mpg highway, and 30 mpg combined with the manual.
When it comes to driving experience, the regular Jetta provides a refined and efficient commute, although it may lack excitement. The turbo engine is quiet and smooth, with decent acceleration. The automatic transmission is smooth and adds to the overall refinement. However, opting for the manual transmission adds a much-needed dose of fun, making the Jetta more engaging to drive. The ride and handling are tuned for comfort, with improved stability and a relatively quiet cabin. While the steering is a bit slow, it offers some feedback and a decent level of heft. Comparatively, the Mazda3 and Honda Civic provide lighter and more playful handling but sacrifice some comfort.
The Jetta GLI elevates the driving experience significantly. It features a more advanced independent multi-link rear suspension, offering well-balanced cornering and improved stability on rough roads. The inclusion of adaptive dampers further enhances the ride quality. The GLI outperforms the regular Jetta in terms of handling, with a sportier feel and a more engaging driving experience.
In terms of safety, the 2023 VW Jetta has not undergone any significant changes from the previous model year. It received average crash ratings in previous years, but newer safety features have not been extensively reviewed.
Conclusion
The 2023 VW Jetta has many positive qualities, such as its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, peppy engine, and reasonable prices. However, there are areas where it falls short, including a lackluster driving experience and uninspiring interior design. Despite these shortcomings, the Jetta remains a solid option for buyers seeking a reliable and affordable compact car. The GLI model stands out with its performance-oriented features and refined driving dynamics. However, competitors like the Honda Civic and Mazda3 offer a more well-rounded package that combines practicality and passion. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and priorities.