2017 Volkswagen Jetta review

1. Three engine options

Whether you need an economical commuter, a family-friendly car, or a sporty ride, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta's three engine options have you covered. The base turbocharged 1.4L four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission checks the boxes with an EPA-estimated 33 mpg combined.

 Stepping up to the SEL's turbocharged 1.8L four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission delivers more power (170 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque) and returns an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined. If acceleration is what you're after, the 2017 Jetta GLI's turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder engine makes 210 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque. This engine truly has a passion for performance.

2. Pleasing handling

2017 Volkswagen Jetta S, SE, and SEL models include a four-corner independent suspension that ensures a comfortable passenger experience. You'll love how smooth this sedan rides when commuting to the office or enjoying extended road trips. The Jetta also provides responsive steering wheel feedback to help you feel more connected to the road. The GLI ups the ante with a sport-tuned suspension that provides firmer responses as you hug corners and embrace bends.

3. Room for cargo

If you're looking for a compact sedan that can handle transporting passengers and their gear, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta has a lot to offer. With 15.7 cu-ft of trunk volume, you'll have space for shopping bags, sporting equipment, or luggage for weekend getaways. SE and higher trims also include 60/40-split folding rear seats with a pass-through to easily accommodate longer items like skis or lumber for DIY projects. Accessing the cargo area is simple with a trunk release button on the remote key fob, which comes standard.

4. Comfy cabin

The five-passenger 2017 Volkswagen Jetta has a spacious interior that makes it feel more midsize than compact. Taller passengers won't feel cramped, with 41.2 inches of front seat legroom and 38.1 inches in the back. The VW's front seats are also very comfortable and supportive, which is essential for long drives. Cloth upholstery is standard in the Jetta S, but you'll find leatherette seating surfaces with heated front seats on SE and higher trims. This compact sedan also includes six-way adjustable front seats and interior ambient lighting.

5. Driver-friendly tech

All trims of the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta feature Bluetooth^® connectivity with audio streaming, a USB port, and a rearview monitor for your convenience. In addition, SE and higher trims include Volkswagen Car-Net^® App-Connect, which provides Apple CarPlay^®, Android Auto^™, and MirrorLink^® connectivity for seamless smartphone integration. For extra confidence on your drive, 2017 Jetta SE models and higher also include blind-spot monitoring and rear traffic alert.