As mentioned before, the Jetta gets offers three engine options that can be configured with an automatic or manual transmission depending on the variant that one chooses. The base trim Jetta S gets a 1.4L I4 engine that produces 150 hp of engine power and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. The engines on offer with the SEL and GLI trim are 1.8L and 2.0L engines that produce 170 hp and 210 hp respectively. The base engine sort of feels underpowered, especially if you are going full house. While the lack of power is not felt within the city limits, overtaking moving traffic on the freeway makes you realize the lack of it. With the midrange 1.8 L motor, things are much improved. What suits this sedan the best is the top-spec 2.0L engine that offers the fun-to-drive factor and feels quite sprightly.
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Models
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Volkswagen Jetta S
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Kia Forte LX
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Mazda Mazda3 Sport
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Hyundai Elantra SE
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MSRP
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$18,895
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$17,600
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$18,895
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$18,150
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Engine
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1.4L I4
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2.0L I4 DOHC D-CVVT MPI
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2.0L SKYACTIV-G DOHC 16-Valve 4-Cylinder
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2.0L DOHC 16V 4-Cylinder D-CVVT GDI
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Transmission
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5-speed automatic
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6-Speed Automatic
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6-Speed Automatic
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6-Speed Automatic
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Horsepower
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150 hp @ 5000 rpm
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147 hp @ 6200 rpm
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155 bhp @ 6000 rpm
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147 @ 6200 rpm
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Torque
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184 ft-lbs. @ 1400 rpm
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132 lb-ft. @ 4500 rpm
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150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
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132 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm
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In its segment, the Jetta has a rather powerful engine when compared with competitors. The Hyundai Elantra and its sister brand’s Kia Forte LX feature 2.0L engines that produce 147hp which offers decent performance at best. The Mazda Mazda3 sedan has the highest power output at 155hp, however falls short of the Jetta in torque production
2017 Volkswagen Jetta Acceleration
The Volkswagen Jetta S’ 1.4L motor pulls the car from a still to 60 MPH in 7.7 seconds and helps it cross the quarter-mile in 16.3 seconds. However, as one moves to buy the top-of-the-line GLI trim performance improves extensively. While its numbers not available, you can expect it to e 1-2 seconds quicker than the base engine.
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Models
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Volkswagen Jetta S
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Kia Forte LX
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Mazda Mazda3 Sport
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Hyundai Elantra SE
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0-60 MPH
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7.7 sec
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6.6 sec
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7.9 sec
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9.3 sec
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Quarter mile
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16.3 sec
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15.2 sec
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16.2 sec
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16.9 sec
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Engine
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1.4L
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2.0L
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2.0
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2.0L
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Emission
(Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year)
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5.4
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5.5
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5.5
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5.3
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Amongst the 4 cars, the Kia Forte with the least powerful engine has the best acceleration capabilities and races to 60 MPH mark in 6.6 seconds, and clocks a time of 15.2 seconds in the quarter-mile run. Despite a similar engine setup like the Forte, the Elantra has the least impressive figures, thanks to its lethargic gearbox.
2017 Volkswagen Jetta Braking
The Jetta’s braking capabilities may not be the best-in-class but for a family that weighs nearly 3000 lbs, it does a fine job. The Jetta makes use of smaller brakes that measure around 11.3 inches at the front and 10 inches at the rear. The pedal does not feel spongy even under hard braking which helps to build confidence when it comes to going fast.
It comes to a stop from the 70 MPH mark at a distance of 185ft. Even though this Volkswagen covers maximum ground distance before coming to a halt, it is difficult to declare a certain winner in the segment.
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Model
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Volkswagen Jetta S
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Kia Forte LX
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Mazda Mazda3 Sport
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Hyundai Elantra SE
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Brake Front (in.)
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11.3
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11
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11
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11.0
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Brake Rear (in.)
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10
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10.3
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10.4
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8.0
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Curb Weight (lbs.)
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2939
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2,804
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2,967
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2,812
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70-0 MPH (ft.)
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184
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176
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173
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179
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The Kia Forte and the Mazda Mazda3 Sport make use of similar-sized brakes that help them record class-leading braking stats at 176 and 173ft respectively. The braking system on the Hyundai Elantra SE is nimble that renders a total halting distance of 179ft, thanks to its lightweight chassis.
2017 Volkswagen Jetta Ride and Handling
A ride in the Volkswagen Jetta is quite comfortable as well as reassuring. The 1.4 L engine accords the car with decent acceleration and an independent rear suspension which is now a standard offering in every trim provides an all-round driving experience. The Jetta is not one of those cars that may not excel in a particular driving aspect rather it fairs well in every segment, making overall driving performance pleasing and comfortable.
High-end models like the SEL or the GLI trim, with more powerful engines, make the Jetta a fun car to drive. The powertrain and suspension feel better than before and make the Jetta a perfect choice as a daily driver. Its suspension has been tuned quite well to handle rough road situation but also offer you a sporty drive. The steering offers a good amount of feedback from the road which makes it feel quite nimble.
