Volkswagen Jetta 2.0 TDI 140 CV DSG, road test (Exterior design, interior and finishes)

We continue with the Volkswagen Jetta. In the first part we told you how its 140 CV diesel engine, the most powerful version available for this model, performs, and we certainly liked it for its consumption and performance.

And now we turn to the exterior and interior design of the Jetta. You don’t need to be very perceptive to realise that it is a VW Golf with a three-box body, and perhaps the interior is where this shows most, as when we sit down we are practically in a Golf. But at the same time this becomes a virtue, because the interior quality of the German compact is high, and this also applies to the Jetta.

Exterior design

But first we have to review the exterior design, a design that compared with the previous generation has gained in presence (it is now less obvious that it is a three-box Golf) and the front has been differentiated from the compact with more elegant and sober lines.

It is a more traditional-looking vehicle, which in design is closer to the Passat than to the Golf from which it derives. In the side profile we again find simple, sober and elegant lines, giving personality and presence to this mid-size saloon.

Undoubtedly where it is most evident that it wants to approach the Passat is at the rear, with lights that follow the design of the German executive saloon, with LED technology and a much more personal look than the previous generation of the Jetta.

In design overall it is clean-lined and sober, while also elegant. It is a good alternative for buyers who want a saloon but do not want to pay too much on the price of the car. It is a pity that some elements such as the optional LED headlights of the Golf cannot be fitted to the Jetta, which has daytime running lights but with bulbs.

Finally, as standard in the Sport trim come 16-inch alloy wheels, which at first glance may seem a small size, but they are more than sufficient and at the same time we manage to keep consumption contained.

Interior design, space and finishes

As soon as we sit at the wheel of the Volkswagen Jetta, everything is identical to the Golf. The dashboard is inherited directly from the compact, which has two sides. On the one hand it is a pity that there is no differentiating element, even a minimal one. But on the other hand we find a quality interior, with soft-touch materials and correct fit and finish, something that many mid-size saloons are still not able to offer.

That sober and orderly interior, where there are few controls, but all are well placed, follows the philosophy we see on the outside. Despite not showing great design flourishes, it must be acknowledged that in daily use it is very practical and almost everything is to hand.

The driving position is comfortable and with good visibility, thanks to its classic shapes and a good windscreen. The seats have a rather firm padding (typical of Volkswagen) but they are comfortable when we spend many hours seated and at the same time hold the body very well.

The rear seats surprise with their spaciousness; there is more than enough room for legs and head, as well as air vents and comfort for two adults. If three travel, the centre seat is somewhat less comfortable because of the transmission tunnel taking up space.

Storage and boot

The boot of the Jetta has a capacity of 510 litres, a figure more typical of a large saloon than a three-box car; it is an excellent figure, above all because an Seat Exeo does not reach those numbers, for example. It also has regular shapes and has a slot for skis, in the centre seat.

As for storage spaces , there are several distributed throughout the car, from cup holders in the front seats, a large main glovebox, or large door pockets to leave our things, as well as a sunglasses holder in the roof.

In the third part of the test we will focus on the equipment — reviewing the safety equipment — as well as on prices and, as always, our overall assessment of the car.

Photos | Diego G. Moreira