2015 Volkswagen Jetta TSI

Pros: Fuel economy with Hybrid and diesel models; class-leading interior room and comfort; clean, simple control layout; broad model range; high-performance fun of GLI model

Cons: Some interior materials don’t live up to Volkswagen’s typical standards; throttle lag when pulling away from a stop; occasionally awkward performance from automated manual transmission

CG Says: For 2015, the Volkswagen Jetta gets a minor facelift, updated interior trim, and the following available safety features: Blind Spot Monitor, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Forward Collision Warning System, and Park Distance Control. TDI models get a new, more economical diesel engine. Volkswagen’s compact offers great passenger and cargo room, as well as powertrain refinement that exceeds the class norm. At the same time, its ride/handling balance and quality of interior materials on lower-line models fall short of the lofty standards we expect from a Volkswagen. The thrifty diesel engine makes this compact a more appealing entry than it might otherwise be, as does the well-designed Jetta Hybrid. The Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter 4-cylinder/electric motor powerplant that puts out 170 horsepower and is available solely with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It’s EPA rated at 42 mpg city/48 highway. The Hybrid is a good all-around package with enough positive attributes that will appeal to those who are new to the brand. VW’s compact sports sedan, the GLI, maintains the Jetta’s practical and roomy package but is much more fun to drive. While the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder has a much lower horsepower rating than many competing sporty compacts, in practice it offers fine power and is very refined. Responsive handling and livable ride quality are other positives.

The Facts
Class Compact Car
Body Style(s) 4-door sedan
Passenger Count 5
Drive Wheels front-wheel drive
Manufacturer Volkswagen
Nation of Manufacture Mexico
Base Prices 2.0 Base: $16,215
2.0 S: $17,325
1.8T SE: $18,995
1.8T Sport: $20,895
1.8T SEL: $25,380
TDI S: $21,640
TDI SE: $24,075
TDI SEL $26,410
GLI SE: $26,920
GLI SEL $29,280
Hybrid SEL: $31,670

Base Engine
2.0-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
115 (210 in GLI turbocharged models)
Std. Transmission
5-speed manual (6-speed in GLI)
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic (automated manual in GLI)
EPA City Range (mpg)
23-25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
33-34

Optional Engine
turbocharged 1.8-liter 4-cylinder
Horsepower
170
Std. Transmission
5-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
25
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
37

Optional Engine
2.0-liter turbodiesel 4-cylinder
Horsepower
150
Std. Transmission
6-speed manual
Avail. Transmission
6-speed automatic
EPA City Range (mpg)
31
EPA Hwy Range (mpg)
45-46

2015_jetta_tdi_4218
2015 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
Share this: