With many “budget” manufacturers releasing good quality products lately, the market staples have had to step up their game. And Volkswagen has done just that with its latest Jetta.
Fresh from its launch into the South Africa market, the sixth-generation Jetta is 90 mm longer at 4 644 mm, and has a 73 mm longer wheelbase than the model it replaces. As a result it now offers more interior space and, according to Volkswagen, more style for a mid-sized saloon. A wide range of optional trim levels is also offered.
Two diesel and three petrol engine options are available. The oil-burning 1,6- and 2,0-litre TDI units develop 77 and 118 kW respectively, with torque figures standing at 250 N.m for the smaller option and 320 N.m for the larger of the two. Petrol engine choices include an entry-level 77 kW/175 N.m 1,2 TSI, a 1,4 TSI with 90 kW/200 N.m of torque, and finally an uprated example of this unit with 118 kW and 240 N.m. Fuel consumption for these engines is between claimed figures of 4,5 and 6,3 litres/100 km.
All models, except for the 1,6 TDI Comfortline, come equipped with a six-speed manual transmission. The exception is available with a five-speed manual or seven-speed DSG ‘box. VWSA announced at the launch that it also hopes to launch a 1,4 DSG Jetta in the future.
Three trim levels are available – Trendline, Comfortline and Highline. Standard features across the range include ABS, ESP with brake assist, a hill hold function, rain sensing wipers, auto-on headlamps, auto dimming rear-view mirror, an array of airbags and other safety features and an audio system that can be controlled via the controls on the standard leather-clad steering wheel.
Prices:
1,2 TSI (77 kW) Trendline R222 000
1,4 TSI (90 kW) Trendline R234 500
1,4 TSI (90 kW) Comfortline R244 500
1,6 TDI (77 kW) Comfortline R259 500
1,6 TDI (77 kW) Comfortline DSG R274 000
1,4 TSI (118 kW) Highline R274 500
2,0 TDI (103 kW) Highline R297 200
All prices include a 3-year/120 000 km warranty and VW’s 5 year/90 000 AutoMotion service plan.
For a full specification list, download the specification sheet by clicking on the documents tab in the top right hand corner of the image block.
