New 2023 Volkswagen Jetta ( Overview ). HIGHS
– Cushy ride for a compact, spacious cockpit, stellar fuel economy.
LOWS
– Morose interior, overboosted steering, body control a bit too relaxed at times.
VERDICT
– A roomy cabin and impressive fuel economy make the compact Jetta a big hit in the small-car segment.
– Pros
Pleasingly smooth ride
Ample storage in the cabin
Customizable digital instrument cluster lends a techy vibe
– Cons
Brakes feel grabby at low speeds
Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls are tricky to use
Cabin is more plasticky than others in the class
– What’s new
SE trim level adds remote start
USB charging ports have more power (late availability)
Part of the seventh Jetta generation introduced in 2019
The Volkswagen Jetta got a major overhaul last year and is likely to carry over without big changes for 2023, with the only update of note the addition of remote start to SE models. Once a step behind the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra and Kia Forte (Edmunds’ top-ranked small sedans), the Jetta is a more viable alternative after its recent updates.
