2024 Volkswagen Jetta S: The Brand’s Affordable Entry-Level Compact Sedan

Highlight:  This is one of the most affordable vehicles available today for consumers to purchase.

Test Vehicle's MSRP: $22,585 

Seating Capacity: 5

Standard Safety Features: airbags; ABS; AWD; an auto dimming rearview mirror; a lane assist keeping system; a stability control system; a rearview camera; a hill hold control system; a radar activated cruise control system; a forward collision assist system; an active blind spot monitor; and a tire pressure monitoring system

Standard Equipment (S): 16-inch wheels; front wheel drive; a manual transmission; a leather wrapped steering wheel; heated foldable side mirrors; cloth seats; manual adjusted front seats; split folding rear seats; a manual operated tilt/telescopic steering wheel; a manual adjustable climate control system; a 6-inch infotainment screen system

Options: none

Trims:

SE

SEL

Sport

Jetta GTI

Standard Audio On Test Vehicle: an AM/FM

Bluetooth Connectivity: Standard

USB Connectivity: Standard

Apple/Android Connectivity: Standard

Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles

Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Powertrain Warranty: 4 years/50,000 miles

Standard Horsepower: 1.5-liter, 4-cylinder/158-horsepower

Mileage: 29-city/42-hwy

What’s New: A new 40th anniversary GLI is available. 

Why (Test Model):

Affordable

Roomy

Phenomenal miles per gallon

A host of standard safety driving aids

A manual transmission (an automatic is available too)

Easy-to-use infotainment

Great visibility

Stylish design

Maintenance included for 2 years

And above average new-vehicle warranty

A radar activated cruise control system

A well thought-out layout for the instrument panel; its clean and modern

Wireless charging device

An automatic brake hold feature

A variety of trims available

But:

Only one powertrain available on the Jetta

No sliding or adjustable center armrest

Powertrain warranty falls short of some of its competitors

No AWD available

No hybrid powertrain available

Verdict:  With only 8 cars on the market today priced under $25,000, the 2024 Jetta, the brand’s entry-level vehicles fall within the criteria. The sporty looking four door sedan is only available in a front wheel drive configuration \.

In fact, the roomy compact Jetta S, which we reviewed, is literally a dinosaur being that its one of the few vehicles outfitted with a fun-to-drive manual shifter. For us, the manual transmission enhanced the driving experience. However, for those seeking an automatic transmission, it will cost an extra $800.

Surprisingly, the smooth riding Jetta has a high level of standard driver’s aids, helping to reduce accidents. While the Jetta only offers one powertrain, which is more than adequate, buyers seeking more performance with a dash of athleticism can step up to the Jetta GLI.

Competition: Honda Civic; Hyundai Elantra; Kia Forte; Nissan Sentra; and Toyota Corolla