2019 Volkswagen Jetta

2019 Volkswagen Jetta Highlights

The 2019 model year marks the debut of the seventh-generation Volkswagen Jetta, and with the new edition, significant changes have come. Gone is the familiar 1.8-liter turbo four engine. The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta S trim through the Premium trim gets a new 1.4-liter turbo four. While the new engine has less power, it is still an eager powerplant that Volkswagen keeps for the newly introduced Jetta R-Line. The new 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI is the true runner, thanks to its 228-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo engine. Besides powertrain changes, 2019 Jettas get larger interior and exterior dimensions and greater convenience and safety tech.

Key Details

• Compact sedan body style
• Two-row seating for up to five passengers
• Completely redesigned for the 2019 model year
• Slightly larger dimensions for improved interior space
• Standard turbocharged engine across all trims
• The new MQB platform shared with other VW models
• Introduction of the sporty R-Line trim
• Available digital cockpit display

Benefits

• Enhanced fuel efficiency
• Improved technology features, including standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• More spacious interior with premium materials
• Available advanced driver assistance features
• Sportier design and driving dynamics

Learn More: Here Are The Volkswagen Jetta Years To Avoid

2019 Volkswagen Jetta Overview

Performance

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta offers two engine options:

1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (Standard on S, SE, R-Line, SEL, SEL Premium):

• 147 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque
• Available with a six-speed manual transmission (S trim only) or eight-speed automatic transmission

2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (GLI models):

• 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque
• Available with a six-speed manual transmission or seven-speed dual-clutch automatic (DSG)

Key performance features include:

• Available Sport mode for enhanced throttle response and shift points
• XDS electronic differential (GLI models) for improved handling
• Available DCC adaptive damping system (GLI Autobahn)
• Start-stop system for improved fuel efficiency (automatic transmissions)

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta GLI 35th Anniversary further improves performance with active-damping suspension, which keeps the car planted during hard turns.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Jetta a top five-star overall safety rating.

Standard safety features on all 2019 Volkswagen Jetta trims include:

• Automatic post-collision braking system
• Electronic stability control
• Rearview camera

Available advanced safety features include:

• Forward collision warning with autonomous emergency braking
• Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive cruise control
• Lane keep assist
• Automatic high beams
• Parking sensors

Driving

Like its Golf stablemate, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is an example of a compact car that exceeds expectations. Jettas have balance, poise, and planted handling. Steering is well-weighted and precise, especially in sportier trims such as the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta R-Line. The driving experience would never hint that it’s a front-wheel-drive compact sedan.

Volkswagen’s new 1.4-liter turbocharged engine makes do with less power than the old engine, but it’s more than enough for daily driving and enjoying winding roads.

Driving enthusiasts will head straight to the Jetta GLI, though. Its more powerful 2.0-liter engine, sport-tuned suspension, and available adaptive damping system transform the Jetta into a genuinely sporty sedan. The GLI's performance competes with other sport compacts, like the Honda Civic Si.

Interior

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta's interior showcases significant improvements over its predecessor, offering a more premium feel and increased spaciousness. The cabin is clean and modern, with high-quality materials, especially in higher trim levels.

Key interior features include:

• Available leather upholstery
• Heated and ventilated front seats (available)
• 60/40 split-folding rear seats
• Available ten-color ambient lighting system
• Available panoramic sunroof

The Jetta's slightly larger dimensions translate to improved interior space, particularly regarding rear legroom and shoulder room. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, with good adjustability to accommodate drivers of various sizes.

Cargo space is competitive for the class, with 14.1 cubic feet of trunk space. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats add versatility for carrying more oversized items.

Technology

Even the base 2019 Volkswagen Jetta 1.4T S comes well-equipped with modern technology features:

• 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system (base S trim)
• Eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system (SE trim and above)
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility (standard across all trims)
• Volkswagen Car-Net App-Connect
• Available Beats Audio premium sound system
• Available wireless phone charging

Higher trims offer additional technology features:

• Volkswagen Digital Cockpit (10.25-inch digital instrument cluster)
• Navigation system
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Volkswagen Car-Net Security & Service

The Jetta's infotainment system is user-friendly, with responsive touch inputs and logical menu structures. The inclusion of physical buttons and knobs for standard functions like volume and climate control is a welcome feature, allowing for easy adjustments while driving.

Starting with the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta SEL trim, Jettas comes with the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit. This fully digital instrument cluster can be customized to display various information, including navigation directions and vehicle performance data.

Fuel Economy

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta offers competitive fuel economy ratings for its class. EPA fuel economy estimates are as follows:

1.4-liter turbocharged engine:

• Manual transmission (mpg): 30 city / 40 highway / 34 combined
• Automatic transmission (mpg): 30 city / 40 highway / 34 combined

2.0-liter turbocharged engine (GLI):

• Manual transmission (mpg): 25 city / 32 highway / 28 combined
• Automatic transmission (mpg): 25 city / 32 highway / 28 combined

2019 Volkswagen Jetta Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book give the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta an overall rating of 4.1 out of 5. Owners praise the Jetta for its value, styling, performance, comfort, and reliability.

Reasons to Buy It

• Efficient and responsive turbocharged engines
• Spacious and well-appointed interior
• User-friendly infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available Volkswagen Digital Cockpit
• A comfortable ride with composed handling
• Strong safety ratings and available advanced driver assistance features
• Sporty GLI model for performance enthusiasts

Problems

• Some plastic interior materials in lower trims may feel less premium
• Base S trim lacks some features found standard in competitors
• Rear drum brakes on lower trims (except GLI) instead of disc brakes
• Some users report occasional hesitation from the eight-speed automatic transmission
• Wind and road noise may be noticeable at highway speeds

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CoPilot's Take

The 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is a leap forward for the model. It has more interior space and tech without sacrificing the brand's carefully cultivated enthusiast driving experience.

Though it lacks the 1.8’s power, the standard 1.4-liter turbocharged engine provides a good mix of thrust and efficiency for daily driving. The GLI model offers genuinely sporty performance for enthusiasts. The new MQB platform improves handling and a more refined ride across all models.

Interior space is up, and materials are more premium. The available Digital Cockpit and eight-inch infotainment system with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto keep the Jetta competitive regarding technology offerings.

Safety is also a strong point, with the Jetta earning high marks in crash tests and offering a comprehensive suite of available driver assistance features.

However, potential buyers should know that some desirable features are reserved for higher trims, and the base model may feel sparse compared to some rivals. Additionally, while the interior is generally well-appointed, some may find hard plastics in lower trims disappointing.

2019 Volkswagen Jetta FAQs

Is the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta a good car?

Yes, the 2019 Volkswagen Jetta is generally considered a good car. It offers a comfortable ride, good fuel economy, a spacious interior, and various modern technology features. The redesign for 2019 brought significant improvements in styling, performance, and overall refinement. The Jetta also received strong safety ratings.

What should I pay for a 2019 Volkswagen Jetta?

According to CoPilot national listings, a 2019 Volkswagen Jetta costs $8,000 to $25,000, depending on condition, mileage, equipment, and marketplace conditions.

How many miles will a 2019 Volkswagen Jetta last?

A 2019 Volkswagen Jetta can last 200,000 miles or more with proper maintenance and care.

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