IT has taken six generations but the Jetta, named after Atlantic jet streams, seems to have finally shaken its “Golf with a boot” label. Of course, it helps that the new car is modelled so closely on other saloons in the current Volkswagen family – most notably the Passat and Polo – but VW is quick to point out that the new Jetta shares none of its panels, inside or out, with any other model in its line-up, including the Golf 6.

Unlike with previous Jettas, Volkswagen aims to capture both a market that may have outgrown its popular hatch line-up and those buyers who, in the current economic climate, want to spend less without having to compromise on the comfort and convenience levels to which they are accustomed.

Built at the Puebla plant in Mexico, South African-bound Jettas follow the style of European-spec units, which means they feature soft-touch facia and centre-console treatments; vehicles destined for the all-important US market are subjected to costcutting measures to allow them to compete in a more affordable segment. Although some of this penny-pinching can be found in the cabin – for example, the door panels feature only hard plastic (compare this to the Golf 6, which features soft-touch surfacing on most of the door trim) – the rest of the cabin remains upmarket and, by all accounts, class-leading. While our test vehicle had already developed several rattles, we trust this will be the exception rather than a trend throughout the range.

An impressive aspect of the cabin is the comfort it affords five passengers. However, while our test unit was fitted with optional leather upholstery (R12 080), our experience with Jettas boasting cloth-covered seats is that the latter feature firmer support and, ultimately, improved comfort over long distances. Extensive rake and reach adjustment of the steering column add further convenience and, aided by the standard multifunction steering wheel, all controls and switches are within easy reach of the driver.

One of the highlights of the new Jetta, and the main reason why it has a mostly fresh design that bears little similarity to the Golf 6, is improved interior space and occupant comfort. The new car is 90 mm longer than the previous model and features a wheelbase stretched by 73 mm. The enlarged dimensions free up rear legroom and luggage space, both of which are class-leading.

Five engine options, three TSIs and two TDI units, are available in the new range. The 1,4-litre turbo- and supercharged petrol engine, as featured here, heads up the petrol line-up. Mated exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, the engine delivers 118 kW at 5 800 r/min and 240 N.m of torque available between 1 500 and 4 000 r/min.

Although regular shifting of the slick six-speed gearbox is necessary to keep revs within the optimal range, this engine/transmission combination copes well with everyday driving conditions and, significantly, resulted in a CAR fuel-index figure of just 7,56 litres/100 km. Combined with a 55-litre fuel tank, this should allow for around 730 km between visits to the fuel pump. A hill-hold function (standard throughout the range) assists in achieving smooth pull-aways and should extend the life of the clutch. While it's of little importance to the target market, a fairly impressive 0-100 km/h time of 8,86 seconds should settle “my dad/your dad” playground battles.

ESP stability control is standard throughout the range and cannot be disengaged. Good news for owners with teenage sons, then ... That said, the newest VW saloon boasts such impressive balance and poise in most driving conditions that owners should encounter ESP activation only in extreme situations.

Unlike US-bound models that feature a torsion beam at the rear, the local Jetta range retains a multi-link rear-suspension setup (complementing the fore-mounted MacPherson strut arrangement) and, even though Highline models gain lower-profile (225/45 R17) rubber compared with Trendline and Comfortline models, the fitment of these items did little to unsettle the controlled, supple ride.

New to the Jetta is Volkswagen’s electro-hydraulic powerassisted steering system, which is able to vary the feel and weight according to driving conditions, from tight parking manoeuvres to highway cruising. It’s a very direct, linear system in the best VW tradition, but devoid of feel or feedback.

TEST SUMMARY

Critics may accuse Volkswagen of being too conservative and generic in the styling of its latest saloon offerings, but it is difficult to argue against the virtues of keeping things elegant and simple. It’s a formula that has worked for the other big players in this segment, most notably the Corolla.

Where the new Jetta succeeds in taking the fight to the establishment – and managing to (just about) stay ahead of the Korean contingent – is in its impressive packaging, comfort levels and class-leading efficiency. While we would like to see VWSA be more generous with standard specification, it would be foolish to bet against the Jetta maintaining the success of previous generations.

Original article from Car