Volkswagen Jetta Trendline 2024: the review of the week

I hope I'm not telling you anything new by saying that affordable small cars are becoming increasingly rare. Certainly, there are still a few models available on the market, but the majority of entry-level versions have been phased out to emphasize the more expensive and profitable versions, to put it frankly.

As an automotive journalist, I am limited in the number of vehicles I can test in a single year. Sure, I could drive several different cars in the same week, but I wouldn't be able to provide as detailed a review. Manufacturers are aware of this, which is why they usually seat us in the best-equipped models, to show us the best a vehicle has to offer. Personally, I like to try a variety, and Volkswagen is one of those manufacturers that isn't afraid to put us behind the wheel of their most stripped-down models. Last year, I tested the Jetta GLI, the most expensive version of the range. For 2024, I was offered the Jetta Trendline, the one at the other end. Did I like it less? Absolutely not. In fact, I believe it's quite the opposite, as it's a car that offers you a lot for your money, especially true in 2024 when the average selling price of a new vehicle is nearly three times higher than its selling price.

Driving Experience

If you've never driven a Volkswagen model, it's something I highly recommend you try. Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini are also part of the Volkswagen group, and the standards are much higher for those brands than for Volkswagen. Thus, you find technologies and elements that have been developed for these other brands in the Jetta. This results in a particularly solid and comfortable car on the highway. In fact, I can tell you that even in its base version, the Jetta is more comfortable than the majority of Audi cars from 10 years ago.

As for the model under review, I had the manual transmission, and I thank Volkswagen for that. Manual transmissions are becoming increasingly rare in less expensive models, and that's what makes the Jetta so valuable. It's a smooth and precise transmission. In fact, it's perfect for someone who wants to learn how to drive a manual car. It's fun to play with the 6 gears.

As for the mechanics, the Jetta Trendline offers a small 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. This engine delivers 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. Volkswagen claims an average fuel consumption of 8.2 L/100 km in the city and 5.6 L/100 km on the highway with the manual transmission. For my part, I managed to maintain an average consumption of 6.8 L/100 km driving both in the city and on the highway, which is even lower than the manufacturer's estimates.

I had a lot of fun driving this car for a week. It's as enjoyable in the city as it is on the highway. It's a very robust and comfortable car. If you work on the road, it's a car you should seriously consider.

Design and Technologies

I must say I had quite an amusing moment with the Jetta when talking to a friend, as he exclaimed, "Wow, you're trying out the new Civic this week!" Upon closer inspection, he quickly realized it was actually a Volkswagen Jetta. However, this situation sparked a conversation about the design of the model. It's true that the Jetta offers a somewhat anonymous silhouette. At the same time, it shouldn't be any prettier than an Audi, which limits the possibilities for the compact sedan. However, this less flashy design also has significant advantages, such as the fact that the Jetta is likely to age better than the competition.

The interior of the car is absolutely superb. It's true that the entry-level version is a bit more stripped-down than the GLI version, but it remains elegant nonetheless. The quality of finish is impressive, and the car offers a host of amenities. The driving position is very comfortable.

I really like Volkswagen's infotainment system in general, but I must admit that the one in the entry-level Jetta was a bit less pleasing. Otherwise, the technologies worked very well. Despite its position in the lineup, the Jetta Trendline offers an impressive standard equipment. It doesn't give us the impression at all that we're dealing with a base model, unlike what we might see elsewhere.

Price and Equipment

The average selling price of a new vehicle is around $69,000 in 2024, which is simply ridiculous. In its Trendline version, the Jetta costs only $26,160, and that's including transportation and preparation fees, which is practically science fiction. For this amount, you get a digital instrument cluster, a heated steering wheel, LED headlights, and so much more. This is the kind of equipment that is only found on high-end versions elsewhere.

Author's Recommendations

The Volkswagen Jetta is a logical choice. It's a car that meets the needs of the majority of people, and that too at a very reasonable price range. The Trendline version is impressive. However, if you want more equipment, its price doesn't increase too quickly with the other versions. The Volkswagen Jetta is the ideal car for people who want to save money on their transportation without sacrificing the comfort and minimal amenities that should be found in a new car in 2024.

Jean-Sébastien Poudrier