2022 Volkswagen Jetta

Pros: Spacious interior; projected fuel economy; control layout; GLI’s handling and performance

Cons: Ride quality isn’t up to previous Jetta standards; some safety features only available on top trim levels

CG Says: The 2022 Volkswagen Jetta has a mildly restyled exterior, a more powerful base engine and some equipment variations. Forward-collision warning and mitigation, blind-spot alert, and rear cross-traffic monitor are now standard. Trim levels of this compact sedan ascend through: entry-level S, a new Sport, popularly-equipped SE, and SEL. The performance-oriented GLI is now only available in Autobahn trim, after the S was dropped.

Jetta GLIs have sport suspension, unique trim, and are powered by a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine mated to either a 6-speed manual or 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All other Jettas now have a turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder rated at 158 horsepower from the Taos SUV. The S and Sport models come standard with a 6-speed manual transmission; optional on S, but standard on all other non-GLI models is an 8-speed automatic transmission.

Available features include, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto functionality.

The mainline Volkswagen Jetta combines good interior space, fuel economy, infotainment features, and very competitive prices—all traits that should appeal to the mainstream shoppers that VW is pursuing with this vehicle. The GLI has extra horsepower and a more sophisticated suspension that result in much sportier car that maintains the GLI’s performance reputation.