2017 Volkswagen Jetta Pros vs Cons. Should You Buy?

Automotive journalists consider the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta to be one of the most underrated cars in its class. It has a lot of great qualities that today’s drivers will appreciate. Although the Jetta is a compact sedan, you will find an abundance of room on the inside. You will also love the Jetta’s easy-to-use features. In terms of performance, there is enough kick under the hood to keep you satisfied on a daily basis.

What’s New for 2017?

All trim levels now come standard with a convenient backup camera. Volkswagen also decided to discontinue the unpopular hybrid model.

 

Top 10 Reasons to Buy a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta – The Pros

1. Impressive Fuel Savings

You can count on the Volkswagen Jetta to deliver good gas mileage. When equipped with the base turbocharged engine, the sedan is especially efficient. Drivers can anticipate getting a solid 28 mpg in the city and 40 mpg on the highway with the manual transmission. However, the automatic-equipped Jetta still manages to return up to 38 mpg.

2. Rather Potent 1.8L Engine

If the base power source fails to create a great deal of excitement, step up to the larger 1.8L engine. It develops a competitive 170 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The extra horsepower enables the Jetta to offer more inspiring acceleration. Fortunately, you won’t be forced to give up a great deal of fuel efficiency.

3. Fun GLI Model

The Jetta GLI is by far the most exciting model in the lineup. It comes equipped with a larger turbocharged engine, which pushes out 210 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. When tested on the open road, the GLI version clocked a quick 0-60 time of 6.3 seconds. To improve handling, Volkswagen installed a sports-tuned suspension.

4. Comfortable & Quiet Ride

Whether you are maneuvering around city traffic or cruising along the interstate, you can expect the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta to deliver a smooth ride. The sedan’s impressive ride quality is a key advantage for the folks who do a great deal of traveling. A well-insulated cabin also helps ensure a quiet journey.

5. Subtle Styling

If you don’t desire a aggressive-looking sedan, the Volkswagen Jetta will be an appealing choice. Refined styling will help the Jetta to age very gracefully. Equipped with chrome exhaust tips and a special set of 18-inch wheels, the GLI model boasts a sportier look. Some of the available paint colors include Platinum Gray, Tornado Red, and Deep Pearl black.

6. Very Roomy

The 2017 Volkswagen Jetta is a highly recommended family car. Although the Jetta is classified as a compact sedan, it offers just as much room as a midsize model. Even your long-legged friends will be able to enjoy the ride. You can also take advantage of the Jetta’s large trunk, which can easily accommodate a few suitcases.

7. Attractively Priced

Budget-minded car shoppers will appreciate the base Jetta’s affordability. With a sticker price of $17,895, it proves to be a sweet deal. Some of the standard components include a backup camera, a touch-screen interface, and Bluetooth technology. Even the sporty GLI model can be obtained for less than $28,000. Furthermore, all trims are protected by a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

8. Well-Designed Infotainment System

An easy-to-use infotainment system gives the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta an edge over some of its competitors. The interface has been praised for it sharp graphics and overall responsiveness. If you find the standard touch screen to be a bit small, upgrade to the larger 6.3-inch version. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto enables drivers to quickly access their favorite smartphone apps.

9. Top-Notch Degree of Passenger Safety

When evaluated by the federal government, the Volkswagen Jetta was able to earn a five-star safety rating. An above-average braking performance makes the Jetta an even more secure family vehicle. Aside from the base Jetta, all of the other trims benefit from a blind-spot monitor and rear cross-traffic alert. Automatic braking technology is offered as well.

10. Premium Fender Sound System

If you love to pump up the volume, the GLI model’s Fender sound system will treat you to an enjoyable music-listening experience. A trunk-mounted subwoofer enables the system to produce extra bass.  

Reasons Not to Buy a 2017 Volkswagen Jetta – The Cons

1. No All-Wheel-Drive Package

All versions of the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta come equipped with front-wheel drive. While the Jetta will deliver the necessary traction in most weather conditions, some drivers will need the enhanced grip of an AWD system. This is especially true for the folks who live in an area that experiences a lot of snowfall.

2. Average Handling

The Volkswagen Jetta feels quite stable on the road. Nonetheless, it does not feel as sporty as compact cars such as the new Honda Civic. The Jetta’s standard suspension is tuned for comfort opposed to sportiness. If you crave enhanced handling, you should check out the more athletic Jetta GLI.

3. Uneventful Styling

While some drivers will adore the Jetta’s subtle styling, there are others who will crave more flair. When traveling on a crowded highway, the Jetta tends to blend in with the crowd. This is especially true for the base Jetta S.

How it stacks up to the competition:

The 2017 Toyota Corolla and the 2017 Ford Focus are two of the Jetta’s main rivals. From a performance standpoint, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta is a significant step above the Toyota Corolla. On the other hand, the Ford Focus provides far less legroom for your backseat occupants.

Conclusion:

In the eyes of many car critics, the 2017 Volkswagen Jetta is a hidden gem. Although the Jetta is not as popular as cars such as the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla, it still brings a lot of positive attributes to the table. If you desire a more exciting driving experience, be sure to test drive the Jetta GLI.