By Autoreviewman
With its crisp styling, the 2019 Jetta is one of those sedans that should be at the top of any list if you are in the market for a very good family sedan. With its neat, crisp styling, and roomy interior, it’s a winner. Powered by a 1.4L turbocharged four engine with auto stop-start technology that makes 147 horsepower and a healthy 187 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 rpm, the Jetta arrives with either a six-speed manual transmission or an eight-speed auto.
Volkswagen offers three trim levels in Canada– Comfortline, Highline and Execline. The Comfortline starts at $20,995 with a six-speed manual, as standard, LED exterior lights, 16-inch alloy wheels, heated fabric front seats, 6.5-inch touchscreen interface with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, USB, back-up camera, four-speaker audio, cruise control and more.
We tested a mid- range Tornado Red 2019 Highline model ($24,095 -$25,495) that added: leatherette seating surfaces, 60/40-split rear seats, auto-dimming interior mirror, blind-spot detection with rear cross-traffic alert, proximity key with push-button start, 8-inch touchscreen with six-speaker audio, SiriusXM, CD player, voice control, auto climate control, panoramic sunroof. Extra options included the R-Line package ($2,985) with unique grille, R Line badges, sport shock absorbers, and R- Line multi-function steering wheel. Also included was unique 17-inch alloys. The $995 Driver Assistant package added: rear traffic alert and blind spot detection, and front assist autonomous emergency braking. The Jetta cabin is, as usual restrained, with logical, ergonomic controls. Interior room is generous with decent enough in all quarters, and there is a huge family sized trunk.
On the road, the Jetta’s turbo engine is a delightful unit that offers robust power delivery and plenty of torque for highway and around town driving. The eight speed transmission is a good choice with its smooth transitions, and snappy response in sport mode. Handling is faultless, with a light touch from the steering, and a nice planted feel to the Jetta that make it feel like a typical German –well engineered car. Volkswagen claims fuel economy of to 5.9 L/100 km, with 7.0 combined and city mileage of 7.8 (auto)/7.9 (manual). To sum up, the 2019 Jetta has been improved in all areas and is to be highly recommended. When only a Volkswagen will do.
2019 Volkswagen Jetta Highline Base priced from – $25,495 plus options, freight and PDI plus Final price $28,575
More info at www.vw.ca.
