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Volkswagen, Jetta 118 TSI
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Volkswagen’s mid-size sedan, the Jetta, isn’t any new-comer to Australia’s Best Cars annual final test week. It’s been a finalist a number of years and a two time class winner. Since last year’s win, Volkswagen has released the new sixth generation model. Bigger, cheaper and better equipped than its predecessor, new Jetta defied challenge from the similarly priced, sleek new Hyundai i40 Tourer and Kia’s stylish and very well-equipped, but higher priced Optima. No longer sharing body panels with its technically related stablemate, the Golf, new Jetta is taller, 190mm longer and lighter. Extra rear legroom is liberated by its 55mm longer wheelbase. Jetta rated well for space thanks in part to its cavernous boot, though judges ranked Optima and i40 slightly better. Standard features on the popular mid-field Comfortline version evaluated by ABC rated above average, while its safety credentials are reassuringly high. All models feature six airbags including front and rear curtains and electronic stability control. The i40 eclipses the Jetta though, with its nine standard airbags including side (thorax) airbags for the outer rear positions and a driver’s knee bag. Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming, auxiliary input socket and media device interface with USB connection are standard on Jetta. Satellite navigation will cost Comfortline buyers an extra $3000. Jetta’s fit and finish was praiseworthy, but the 3 year/unlimited kilometre warranty is little better than the industry average and significantly less generous than the two Korean adversaries. Buyers of the new Jetta still have the option of petrol or turbo-diesel powerplants. While the current generation model line-up is simpler, those desirous of diesel now get less choice with the 2.0-litre 103TDI engine being the only remaining option, given the demise of the 77TDI and 125 TDI diesels. All petrol models feature the 118TSI twin-charger direct injection engine, excepting the top-shelf Highline with its 147TSI engine. Combining small displacement with forced induction from a supercharger and a turbo, the 1.4-litre 118TSI proves a surprisingly sprightly performer. The diesel offers plentiful torque through the low and middle rev range for excellent driveability. Judges rewarded both with equally high performance scores. Both are frugal fuel users with the diesel the more economical. The DSG gearboxes (six-speed for the diesel and seven-speed for the petrol) offer slick timely shifts. Operation at manoeuvring speeds can be a little jerky though. As the on-road scores attest, Jetta offered more sophisticated and polished dynamics, steering and ride than the Koreans. Good grip, steering with a consistent accurate feel, plus responsive handling ensure driver appeal. Suspension tune has a European tautness that’s composed and generally comfortable over a mix of local road conditions including second class gravel roads and corrugations. Inside Jetta offers comfortable supportive seating, although like many cars, the centre rear position feels too hard and narrow. Well laid out controls and Comfortline’s standard rain-sensing wipers and front and rear park sensors contribute to sound ergonomics. With well-above average scores in most areas, the new Jetta once again convinced ABC judges it deserved the best medium car under $50,000 title.
Finalists
Previous Results
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